SSA will not take a F/S application from an individual whose residence has been determined to be a commercial boarding house by the State/county F/S office. The NY State Food Stamp Source Book defines a boarding house as an establishment, which is licensed or is viewed by the community as a commercial enterprise offering meals and lodging for compensation with the intention of making a profit. NY State does not require licensing of commercial boarding houses and therefore does not maintain a list of them. If there is any question as to whether a facility is a commercial boarding house, the local FO management should contact the county F/S office.

SSA will not take a F/S application from an individual whose residence has been determined to be an institution by the State/county F/S office. New York State has determined that most Title XIX institutions such as hospitals, nursing homes or other institutions paid by Medicaid are ineligible. However, residents of a drug or alcohol treatment facility are eligible to participate. Note: Residents of drug/alcohol treatment centers who choose to participate must use an authorized representative to apply for certification.