Eligibility Determination

What it means

The official decision by an agency about whether an applicant qualifies for a program. After the application is filed, the agency reviews the applicant's income, household size, and other factors and issues a determination — approved or denied. For SNAP, the decision must come within 30 days (7 days for expedited). For Medicaid, the timeline depends on the category. The determination comes as a written notice that explains the decision, the reasons, and the applicant's right to appeal. A denied applicant has the right to request a fair hearing.

When you might hear this

You hear this after you apply for a benefit like SNAP, Medicaid, or housing assistance. It is the agency's decision on whether you qualify.

What to ask