SNAP Update – New Food Stamp Rule Set to Begin in Under a Month

Recent changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) could affect Americans aged 53-54 who are receiving or planning to receive Food Stamp benefits. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) have announced rule updates that will come into effect soon, and it’s important to know how these changes might impact you.

ABAWD Time Limits

Starting on October 1, 2024, able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) aged 18-54 will face new time limits on their SNAP benefits. If you fall into this category, you will only be eligible to receive Food Stamps for a total of three months within any three-year period unless you meet specific work requirements. This change is a result of the recent updates to the 2023 Fiscal Responsibility Act, which gradually increased the age limit from 49 to 54.

Work Requirements

To continue receiving SNAP benefits beyond the three-month limit, ABAWDs must work for at least 80 hours per month. The type of work doesn’t matter—you can be employed, volunteer, or participate in a training program for the required hours. The USDA provides some flexibility, allowing you to choose the type of work or training that best suits your situation.

For example, you can participate in SNAP Employment and Training programs or other eligible local, state, or federal programs. You may also combine work and training hours to meet the 80-hour requirement.

Who is Exempt?

There are several exemptions to the ABAWD work requirements. If you qualify for any of the following, you won’t have to meet the 80-hour work requirement:

• Young Adults: Those who are 24 or younger and were in foster care on their 18th birthday.
• Veterans: Those who have served in the military.
• Individuals with Disabilities: This includes both mental and physical disabilities.
• Pregnant Women: Pregnant individuals are exempt from these requirements.
• Homeless Individuals: Those experiencing homelessness are also exempt.
• Households with Dependents: If you have a child or someone under 18 in your household, you are exempt from the ABAWD work requirements and the three-month time limit.

Having a Child

Having a child under 18 in your household offers significant protection against these new rules. While general SNAP work requirements apply to most adults aged 16-59, the stricter ABAWD rules do not apply to those with children. This means you won’t need to work or train for 80 hours per month, and the three-month time limit on benefits will not apply to you.

Against ABAWD Rules

The debate over ABAWD work requirements is ongoing, with strong arguments on both sides.

• Supporters of Limiting Exemptions: Proponents believe that work requirements encourage self-sufficiency and help individuals move towards financial independence. They argue that exemptions should be limited to ensure the program’s effectiveness in reducing reliance on government assistance.
• Critics of Strict Work Requirements: On the other hand, critics argue that these requirements unfairly penalize vulnerable individuals who face significant barriers to employment, such as lack of access to stable jobs, transportation, or education. They believe that cutting off food assistance could worsen food insecurity and poverty without addressing the root causes of unemployment.

Knowing these rules and their implications is crucial, especially if you are aged 53-54 and currently receiving or planning to apply for SNAP benefits. If you’re concerned about how these changes might affect you, consider checking if you qualify for any of the exemptions or look into fulfilling the work requirements to maintain your benefits.

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