Revision 22-3; Effective September 1, 2022
To calculate the dependent allowance for spousal cases, subtract the dependent's income from 150% of the monthly federal poverty level (FPL) for a family of two and divide the remainder by three. Mandatory payroll deductions also apply to a dependent's earned income.
Dependent family members may be either spouse's minor or dependent children, dependent parents, or dependent siblings (including half-brothers, half-sisters and siblings gained through adoption) who were living in the institutionalized person’s home before the person’s institutionalization and are unable to support themselves outside the person’s home because of medical, social or other reasons.
Note: College students capable of supporting themselves do not meet the definition of a dependent.
The base amounts (150% of the FPL for two) for calculating the dependent allowance are:
| Time Period | Amount |
|---|---|
| July 1, 2022 to present | $2,289 |
| July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022 | $2,178 |
| July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021 | $2,155 |
| July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020 | $2,114 |
| July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2019 | $2,058 |
| July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018 | $2,030 |
| July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017 | $2,003 |
| July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016 | $1,992 |
| July 1, 2014 to June 30, 2015 | $1,967 |
| July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014 | $1,939 |
| July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2013 | $1,892 |
| July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012 | $1,839 |
Deduct the entire dependent allowance even if it is not made available to the dependent.
The community spouse can appeal the dependent allowance amount based on undue hardship caused by financial duress. Only hearing officers can set higher diversion amounts for cases of undue hardship. Review cases of undue hardship every six months to monitor for changes in circumstances.
Related Policy
General Information for Co-Payment, H-1000
Dependent Allowance, H-1600