SNAP Benefits Work Requirements Changing: What Recipients Need to Know

Photo courtesy Brookings Institution/SNAPPhoto byBrookings Institution

Some Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients may be at risk of losing their benefits once new rules go into effect. SNAP helps to support some American households to get nutritious food from grocery stores in their neighborhoods or online.

For a long time, this program has upheld general work requirements for those who are deemed able to work. Per the USDA, The general work requirements apply to those aged 16 to 59 and able to work. Per the USDA, SNAP requires you to be registered for work and participate in the SNAP Employment and Training or workfare if assigned by your State Government Agency. Snap recipients are required to take a job if they are offered an opportunity, and they are not permitted to quit a job or reduce their hours below 30 hours without a good reason.

Currently, those aged 18 to 52 who can work and do not have any dependents in their household have often been required to meet the Able-bodied Adult Without Dependents better known as the (ABAWD) work requirement as well to specifically get SNAP for more than three months in three years.

Starting in October 2024, the age requirement increases. People aged 53 and 54 will also be required to meet these criteria. The specific rules mean that those who can work and between these ages without any dependents must either work at least 80 hours a month, either for pay or as a volunteer, or participate in a work program for at least 80 hours a month, like the SNAP Employment and Training.

While 53- and 54-year-olds were excused from the requirements to get out of the time limit rule previously, starting in October, this requirement now applies to them as well. The only exceptions are if you meet the ABAWD Exemptions for those who are deemed unable to work if you are pregnant, have someone under 18 in their SNAP household, veterans, or the homeless. You will need to review your state Food and Nutrition ABAWD policy to verify. For example, North Carolina Food and Nutrition Policy is available on their website here.