SANTA FE — Starting May 1, New Mexico families enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will see a new verification process to ensure benefit amounts are determined accurately and households receive the correct level of support they qualify for.
The New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA) will begin requiring documentation of shelter, utilities and dependent care expenses when families apply for SNAP and report changes to those expenses.
“When families provide complete information about their expenses, we can make sure their benefit amount is calculated correctly,” said Acting Deputy Secretary Niki Kozlowski. “Without verification, those expenses may not be counted, which could result in lower SNAP benefits than a family actually qualifies for.”
SNAP customers can provide lease or mortgage statements, public housing agreements, or letters from landlords to verify shelter expenses. For the utility cost, copies of their utility’s expenses from the utility company, proof of the utility bill or any document showing the responsibility for paying for the utility. For dependent care, families can submit dependent care agreements, provider letters with cost and attendance details, or any other documentation that shows the responsibility for the cost.
New Mexico is implementing this change to improve accuracy and reduce errors, helping ensure the program continues to operate effectively and families receive the correct benefit amount.
Families who have difficulty obtaining documents can get assistance from HCA caseworkers. If an applicant cannot provide verification directly, they may submit the names and contact information of individuals who can confirm the expenses, such as a landlord or daycare provider. In cases where verification cannot be obtained through any other means, a household may submit a sworn statement attesting to the expenses.
Current SNAP customers will not experience any disruption to their benefits at this time. At each renewal, expenses will be reviewed and verification may be required if the information has changed, is outdated, or cannot be verified through available sources.
Families with an upcoming renewal should wait to receive their renewal packets before sending documents. Documents can be submitted through a YES.NM.gov account or in person at a local Income Support Division office.
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About the New Mexico Health Care Authority
The New Mexico Health Care Authority connects New Mexicans to the care and support they need to live healthy, full lives. The agency administers Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), cash assistance, child support services, and behavioral health care across the state. HCA also oversees the State Health Benefits program for state employees and manages the Health Care Affordability Fund to help make coverage more affordable for working families. The agency licenses health care facilities, investigates complaints, and ensures providers deliver safe, high-quality care. In addition, HCA supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through a variety of home and community-based programs that protect health, safety, and human rights.