Broad Based Categorical Eligibility allows states to raise the federal gross income limit—which looks at income before any deductions are applied—to improve the gradual phase down of SNAP benefits.

BBCE allows states to reflect cost of living, wages, and other local economic conditions by raising the gross income limit from the current standard of 130 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL). Despite BBCE’s ability to strengthen SNAP’s work incentive effect, the 2018 Farm Bill effectively eliminates BBCE except for some households under very narrow conditions.

To learn more, read this fact sheet by Carrie Welton.