New USDA rules will require some Americans to work or train 80 hours a month to avoid losing their food assistance
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) have announced significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that will impact certain Americans aged 53 to 54. These new restrictions will take effect on October 1, 2024, in less than 50 days, and could result in some recipients losing their food stamp benefits if they do not meet the required conditions.
Stricter Work Requirements
Starting in October, physically able adults without dependents, aged 18 to 54, will be subject to a three-month time limit for receiving SNAP benefits within a three-year period unless they meet specific work requirements. These conditions include working at least 80 hours per month, whether in a paid job, as a volunteer, or by participating in job training programs such as SNAP Employment and Training or other eligible state, local, or federal programs. It is also possible to combine work and training to fulfill this requirement.
Available Exemptions
Despite these new restrictions, certain individuals may be exempt from the work requirement and the time limit. Those eligible for an exemption include:
- Youth up to 24 years old who were in foster care when they turned 18.
- Homeless individuals.
- Veterans.
- Pregnant individuals.
- Those caring for a child or a person under 18 in their household.
- Individuals with physical or mental disabilities.
For those who care for a child under 18 in their household, the strict ABAWD (Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents) rules do not apply. Therefore, they are not required to work or train for 80 hours per month, and the three-month time limit is also waived.
Changes Under the 2023 Fiscal Responsibility Act
These adjustments to SNAP rules are part of changes introduced by the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, which is gradually raising the age limit for ABAWD work requirements to 54. While these new rules aim to encourage workforce participation, there is concern that those who fail to meet the new standards could see their benefits reduced or eliminated.