Net Income

• To qualify for food stamps in New Mexico, a household's net income must be at or below 100 percent of the federal poverty guideline. Net income is the total of all income before deductions or expenses. As of September 2010, the net income limit for one person is $903 per month, with $312 added to the limit for each additional person in the household.
  
  

Gross Income

• Households that do not meet the net income test may qualify to receive food stamps based on gross income. Gross income consists of the net income minus allowable deductions. A standard deduction is taken based on household size. Utility, phone, childcare and excess shelter costs may also be deducted from the net income. Net income less any allowable deductions may not exceed 165 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.
  
  

Documentation

• Applicants are required to provide proof of income including copies of pay stubs or award letters for disability or unemployment income. Utility bills, rental statements and child care receipts may be used to prove expenses in order to meet the gross income test.