Urgent alert for SNAP recipients: New work requirement deadlines approaching fast
An overhaul of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program work requirements, enacted through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act , is underway — bringing major changes for thousands of beneficiaries nationwide.
Recipients, especially those without dependents, should become familiar with the new rules and deadlines if they want to avoid losing their food assistance.
While the OBBBA was signed and went into effect on July 4, 2025 , states were given a timeline to implement new requirements and now those deadlines are almost here.
By Nov. 1, states will be required to comply and enforce the new work requirements for SNAP .
But are the new requirements? Who is affected?
Although the OBBBA brought on a series of changes for SNAP requirements, some of the most impactful include stricter work requirements for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs).
OBBBA primarily adjusts the definition of an ABAWD as well as limit exemptions.
Under the new rules, people considered an ABAWD will be required to work or participate in a work program for at least 80 hours per month .
Otherwise, beneficiaries will be limited to receiving only three months of SNAP benefits within a three-year period.
This makes it incredibly important for people to understand their status and to take the necessary steps to either meet the work requirements or verify if they qualify for an exemption.
Some revisions OBBBA made to SNAP requirements:
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The age requirements for individuals subjected to work requirements have broadened from 54 to 64 .
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The exemption for adults living with a child has been narrowed from under 18 to under 14.
Previously, groups like homeless individuals, veterans, and young adults who aged out of foster care had temporary exemptions .
"Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) can receive SNAP for only three months in a 3-year period if they do not meet certain work requirements," the USDA announced in a release . "This is called the ABAWD time limit."
States can ask the USDA to temporarily waive the ABAWD time limit for areas that have an unemployment rate of more than 10 percent or do not have "a sufficient number" of jobs.
What you should do now
If you are a ABAWD, you should contact your local SNAP agency.
Your local SNAP office can provide you with the most accurate information about how these changes could affect you.
You should also double-check your status so that if you are a ABAWD you can be prepared for what you need to do to meet the new work requirements.
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