If you were born in 1970 or in 1971, you are or will be 53 or 54 in 2024. SNAP rules are changing and it will also affect those aged 53 or 54. Until September 30, 2024, the Able-Bodied Adult Time Limit (ABAWD) only affects those aged 18-52.
This means you cannot receive SNAP benefits for more than 3 months in a period of 3 years unless you work for at least 80 hours per month. Of course, this rule will only be for those aged 18-54 and there will be exemptions.
SNAP and the ABAWD exemptions
As its name states, this rule is for those who can work and have no kids. So, if you have a disability, you will not be affected by this rule even if you are aged 18-54. In the same way, this rule does not apply to those adults who are aged 18-54 but have a child or 2 or more children.
Veterans are also a group of SNAP recipients who will not have to follow this time-limit rule. So, Veterans can benefit from an exemption as well. People who are pregnant also qualify for this waiver.
Do not worry if you are 55 years old or older because this time limit is not for you either. Those young adults aged 18-24 who have left foster care will also enjoy this exemption. If you are experiencing homelessness or you are excused from the general work rules you are also exempted.
What to do to continue receiving SNAP if you are an ABAWD aged 18-54
Apart from working for a minimum of 80 hours per month, there are more things you could do. By doing one of them, you will carry on receiving Food Stamps for more than 3 months in 3 years.
To meet the ABAWD work requirements you can take part in a work program. For your information, the number of hours of this work program must also be 80, just as if you were working. SNAP Employment and Training is not the only option!
Combining work and training is possible if your SNAP office gives the approval. Once more, you must do both tasks for a total of 80 hours. Some SNAP recipients may prefer to participate in workfare for the number of hours assigned per month. It depends on how much money you receive on Food Stamps.