3.2.2 Estimating Income

Available earned and unearned income is tested prospectively for W-2Wisconsin Works eligibility. Prospective Income testing uses the best estimate of income and circumstances to determine what income will be received by the W-2 group each month.

3.2.2.2 Estimating Monthly Income

To determine the best estimate of monthly earned income for individuals paid an hourly rate, and unearned income for the W-2 Group, a FEPFinancial and Employment Planner must use the following table:

Payment Frequency	Calculation
If paid weekly	Earned: (hourly rate) x (average hours per week) x (4.3 weeks per month)
If paid weekly	Unearned: (weekly amount) x (4.3 weeks per month)
If paid biweekly	Earned: (hourly rate) x (average hours biweekly) x (2.15 weeks per month)
If paid biweekly	Unearned: (biweekly amount) x (2.15 weeks per month)
If paid monthly	Earned and Unearned: monthly amount (this includes self-employment and other averaged income)
If paid twice monthly	Earned and Unearned: (amount) x (2 times per month)

The FEP must not adjust the prospective income estimate due to missed work or an irregular increase in work hours. A W-2 Group must be prospectively ineligible for two consecutive months before the case closes.

The W-2 Group’s income affects eligibility only and does not affect the amount of the W-2 payment. The payment amount is determined solely by the employment position in which the adult is participating.

History: Release 23-07.