Codes

This variable is not available for any of the currently selected samples.

Description

FSSTMPVAL records the monthly value of SNAP or Food Stamp benefits received by the household. This question is comparable to the ASEC (or March) supplement (STAMPVAL). Only household that report receiving SNAP benefits are asked to report their benefit levels (see FSFDSTMP).

FSSTMPVAL is only available until 2014. For a variable available 2015+ as well as harmonized backwards in time, see FSSTMPVALC.

This variable is part of the Food Security Supplement.

Comparability

In 1976 households reported the value of benefits received between January and March of 1976. There is no documented top code for this sample. This sample contained 6 responses that are some combination of numbers and dashes. These responses do not appear to be valid and have been recoded NIU (code 999).

In 1976 empty households were not included in the data. In other samples they appear as NIU (code 999).

In 1977 households reported the value of benefits received between January and July of 1977. There is no documented top code for this sample. This sample contained 15 responses that are some combination of numbers and dashes. These responses do not appear to be valid and have been recoded NIU (code 999).

In 1995 and 1996, households are only asked about receipt of benefits in the past month. Thus, households that received benefits in the past year, but not in the past month are not to report their benefit levels. In subsequent years, households who received SNAP or food stamps at any point during the past year report the monthly value of SNAP benefits.

The top code for this variable increases several times. From 1995-2010, the top code is $450. In 2011 and 2012, the top code is $700. In 2013 the documentation gives a top code of $700 but the data show a top code of $666. In 2014 the documentation gives a top code of $700 but the data show a top code of $685.

Universe

Flags

Unharmonized Variables