Entitlement Programs - Connecticut General Assembly

Topic:ELDERLY; FOOD STAMPS; Location:ELDERLY;

The Connecticut General Assembly

OFFICE OF LEGISLATIVE RESEARCH

September 2, 1994 94-R-0649

TO:

FROM: Jacques S. Asselin, Research Analyst

RE: Entitlement Programs

You wanted a list of entitlement programs including their eligibility requirements and application procedures. Attachment 1 describes state funded entitlement programs; it does not include the Food Stamp Program and the Connecticut Home Care Program for the Elderly (CHCPE), which are federally funded. This memo describes these programs, which are administered by the Department of Social Services (DSS).

A family or individual can apply for services by contacting their regional DSS office, which will assess their needs and verify their eligibility. The application procedures vary by program.

FOOD STAMPS

This program provides food coupons to low income households and Aid to Families with Dependent Children and General Assistance recipients. The dollar value of the coupons varies according to a household's income, size, and expenses.

CHCPE

CHCPE, which is state and federally funded, provides an array of home care and community-based services to the state's elderly population (over age 65) who are at risk of nursing home placement. The program gives people the option of remaining in their homes which costs the state less than placing them in nursing homes. The services include counseling, delivered meals, companion services, and personal assistance.

The financial eligibility requirements for state funded services are the same as the federal medicaid requirements. An individual qualifies for assistance if his gross income is less than 300% of the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and his assets are less than $1,600 (various assets are not included). The figures increase for married couples.

JSA:tjo