Changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are on the way, affecting Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) who receive food stamps.
Beginning October 1, 2024, new rules will limit SNAP benefits to just three months within a three-year period unless specific work requirements are met.
If you are aged 18-54 and fall under the ABAWD category, it’s crucial to understand these new guidelines and how they might impact you.
ABAWD Work Requirements
The USDA and Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) have introduced new rules for SNAP recipients classified as ABAWDs, who are adults aged 18-54 without children or other dependents.
Under the new regulations, if you want to continue receiving SNAP benefits beyond three months, you must meet the following conditions:
- Work at least 80 hours per month. The work does not have to be traditional employment—it can include volunteering or performing work in exchange for goods or services.
- Participate in an approved training program. You can meet the requirement by enrolling in a state, local, or federal program such as SNAP Employment and Training, which offers skills development and job placement assistance.
- Combine work and training. Mixing work and training to reach the 80-hour monthly requirement is also acceptable.
If these requirements are not met, your SNAP benefits will be cut off after three months.
Exemptions to the Work Requirement
There are several exemptions to the new ABAWD time limit for those who meet certain conditions. These include:
- Individuals aged 24 or younger who were in foster care on their 18th birthday.
- People experiencing homelessness. Homeless individuals do not need to meet the work requirement to maintain their benefits.
- Veterans. Veterans are exempt from the work requirements.
- Pregnant individuals or those with a disability. Disabilities can be physical or mental and must limit the person’s ability to work.
- Households with dependents under 18. If you have a child or someone under 18 living with you, the ABAWD rules do not apply, even if the general SNAP work rules do.
Arguments Surrounding ABAWD Work Requirements
Support for Stricter Work Rules
Proponents argue that enforcing work requirements encourages self-sufficiency and reduces dependence on government assistance. Limiting exemptions to only those who are truly unable to work is seen as a way to motivate individuals to seek employment and financial independence.
Opposition to Strict Work Rules
Critics highlight the challenges many low-income ABAWDs face in securing stable employment.
Barriers such as lack of transportation, inadequate access to healthcare, and insufficient job opportunities can make meeting the work requirement difficult.
Cutting off food assistance without addressing these root issues could lead to increased food insecurity and deeper poverty.
How Having a Child Affects ABAWD Rules
One of the significant exemptions to ABAWD work requirements involves having a child or dependent under 18 in your household. Here’s how it works:
- The general SNAP work rules apply to adults aged 16-59 who are able to work, but exemptions exist for caregivers of children under 6 or incapacitated individuals.
- ABAWD rules specifically target adults aged 18-54 (an increase from 49, effective October 2024) without dependents. If someone under 18 lives in your SNAP household, you are fully exempt from these stricter work requirements.
- Even though the general work rules apply to adults with children, the 3-month ABAWD time limit does not. If you have a child under 18, you won’t need to meet the 80-hour monthly work or training requirement.
Preparing for the Changes
With the new ABAWD rules set to go live on October 1, 2024, it’s essential to assess your situation and take action if needed.
If you fall under the affected group and want to maintain your SNAP benefits, start exploring your options for meeting the work requirement.
Contact your local SNAP office to find out about employment or training programs that could help you qualify.
These changes are part of a broader effort to balance supporting vulnerable populations with encouraging work and self-sufficiency. As the rules evolve, staying informed and proactive can help you navigate these new requirements while continuing to receive vital food assistance.
FAQs
When do the new ABAWD work rules take effect?
The new rules start on October 1, 2024.
How many hours do I need to work or train to keep my SNAP benefits?
You must work or participate in a training program for at least 80 hours per month.
Who is exempt from the ABAWD work requirement?
Exemptions include people experiencing homelessness, veterans, pregnant individuals, and those with disabilities.
Does having a child exempt me from the work rules?
Yes, if someone under 18 lives in your household, the ABAWD work rules do not apply.
Can volunteering count towards the work requirement?
Yes, volunteer work can fulfill the 80-hour monthly requirement.
