 TITLE: What Counts as Income on a Credit Application? CONTENT: Types of Income and Benefits You Often Can't Use\n------------------------------------------------\nCreditors generally only want you to list regular and ongoing sources of income that you can use to repay the debt. As a result, the following might not count:\n*   **Unemployment benefits**: Unemployment Insurance benefits can typically only be collected for a limited time. There may be exceptions for seasonal workers who regularly collect unemployment, however.\n*   **Non-cash assistance**: Such as vouchers or subsidies for utilities and child care.\n*   **Lottery winnings and gifts**: When they're one-time events.\n*   **Some financial aid**: Funds that go directly to your school to pay educational expenses aren't part of your income.\n*   **Loans**: Most loans aren't considered income because you need to repay the money.\nCreditors may have some say over which types of income they'll consider. If you have any questions, you could call and ask the creditor before you submit an application. END