Summary
Starting in December, new federal rules will change the requirements for those receiving SNAP benefits. The changes will mainly affect able-bodied adults without dependents, who will now need to work or engage in related activities for at least 80 hours a month. Some groups remain exempt from these work requirements.
Key Facts
- SNAP benefits support about 42 million low- and no-income people in the U.S.
- New rules will require many adults aged 18-64 without children under 14 to engage in work or training for at least 80 hours monthly to keep their benefits.
- Work requirements apply to paid or unpaid work, volunteering, community service, or participation in SNAP Employment & Training programs.
- Exemptions include people under 18 or over 64, those living with a child under 14, pregnant individuals, and those with certain physical or mental limitations.
- Some exemptions apply to Native Americans, caregivers for an incapacitated person, and individuals attending drug or alcohol treatment programs.
- The USDA plans to require all SNAP recipients to reapply for benefits under these new rules.
- The changes tie into the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), as directed by the USDA.
