New SNAP Rule For 2024: Know About Work Requirements & More Details

If you were born in 1970 or 1971, you are turning 53 or 54 in 2024, and there’s a significant change to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) rules that you need to be aware of.

These changes, specifically targeting the Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD), could impact your ability to continue receiving SNAP benefits unless you meet certain requirements.

New SNAP Rule For 2024

Age Group Affected

Starting in 2024, the ABAWD rule, which previously applied to individuals aged 18-52, will extend to those aged 53 and 54.

This means that if you fall within this age group, you must meet specific work requirements to continue receiving SNAP benefits beyond a certain period.

ABAWD Rule Explained

The ABAWD rule restricts able-bodied adults without dependents from receiving SNAP benefits for more than three months within a three-year period unless they are meeting certain work or work-related requirements.

These requirements are designed to ensure that individuals who are capable of working are either employed or actively improving their employability.

Work Requirements

To continue receiving SNAP benefits for more than three months in a three-year period, you must:

• Work at least 80 hours per month, or
• Participate in an approved work program for 80 hours per month, or
• Combine work and training for a total of 80 hours per month.

Exemptions from the ABAWD Rule

There are several exemptions to this rule. If you fall into any of these categories, you will not be subject to the ABAWD time limit:

• Disability: If you have a documented disability, you are exempt.
• Caretakers: Adults aged 18-54 who have children or care for someone unable to care for themselves.
• Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, you are exempt from the ABAWD work requirements.
• Veterans: Veterans are exempt from these work requirements.
• Homelessness: If you are experiencing homelessness, you are exempt.
• Foster Care Youth: Individuals aged 18-24 who have recently aged out of foster care are also exempt.
• Individuals Aged 55 and Older: Once you turn 55, you will no longer be subject to the ABAWD rule.

What to Do if You Are Affected

If you are an ABAWD aged 53 or 54 and do not qualify for any exemptions, you will need to take action to continue receiving your SNAP benefits:

1. Find Employment: Secure a job that provides at least 80 hours of work per month.
2. Enroll in a Work Program: Participate in a SNAP Employment and Training program or another approved work program for at least 80 hours per month.
3. Combine Work and Training: With approval from your SNAP office, you can combine work and training activities to meet the 80-hour requirement.
4. Participate in Workfare: Workfare allows you to work in exchange for your SNAP benefits, with the number of hours based on your benefit amount.

By fulfilling one of these requirements, you can continue to receive SNAP benefits beyond the initial three-month limit within a three-year period.

As 2024 approaches, it’s important to be aware of the changes in SNAP rules, especially if you are turning 53 or 54.

Understanding these new requirements and knowing whether you qualify for any exemptions will help ensure that you continue to receive your benefits without interruption.

If you find yourself subject to the ABAWD rule, take steps now to meet the work or training requirements to maintain your SNAP benefits. For more detailed guidance or assistance, contact your local SNAP office.

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