An award is usually something received as the result of a decision by a court, board of arbitration, or the like.

An award is unearned income subject to the general rules pertaining to income and income exclusions.

Use documents in the individual's possession or contact with the court, board, source, etc. to verify:

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  the amount of the award;

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  the payment date; and,

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  if needed, the purpose(s) of the payment (e.g., part of the payment is reimbursement for medical expenses).

Determine the nature of the award and apply the appropriate rules pertaining to income and income exclusions.