Denise Carpenter
Denise tracks how states set income limits, work requirements, and payment amounts for food and cash assistance programs. She lines up state charts side by side so a move from one state to another doesn't come with a surprise cutoff.
SNAP by StateSNAP Asset Limits: Which States Still Count Your Car and Savings
Some states dropped SNAP asset tests entirely, while others still count savings and vehicle value against eligibility.
Unemployment by StateUnemployment Weekly Benefit Amounts: California vs. Florida
Weekly unemployment checks can differ by hundreds of dollars depending on which state calculates your benefit.
Housing Assistance by StateSection 8 Waitlist Times in Los Angeles and Houston Compared
Local housing authorities set their own waitlist rules, and Los Angeles and Houston show just how far apart wait times can be.
TANF and Childcare by StateTANF Cash Assistance Amounts: Ohio vs. Pennsylvania Families Compared
TANF cash grants for the same size family can differ by well over a hundred dollars a month between neighboring states.
State-Only ProgramsState-Only Cash Assistance Programs That Don’t Exist Everywhere
A handful of states fund their own cash assistance programs with no federal counterpart, and losing one after a move can be a surprise.