USDA allows 18-54-year-olds to receive SNAP benefits for three months in a three-year period. There is an Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents (ABWD) work requirement and time limit. Because of this rule, if you are aged 18-54, you must work for at least 80 hours per month to continue receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits for more than 3 months.
However, there are some Americans who may not have to follow this ABAWD time limit or work requirements because they are exempted. For example, you are not affected by this USDA rule if you are aged 18-54 on SNAP and you are pregnant.
Veterans or people with a qualifying disability do not have to work for at least 80 hours per month either. People experiencing homelessness are also excused from the ABAWD rule. Having a child may also help you avoid this law. Just like citizens aged 24 or younger and in foster care on their 18th birthday.
Alternatives to work to continue getting SNAP
Some citizens may not be able to find a suitable job but there are alternatives to work. In this way, you can continue receiving Food Stamps if you participate in a work program.
These work programs must also last for 80 hours per month. It can actually be SNAP Employment and Training. If you do not find any SNAP Employment and Training in your area, you could also participate in a local, state, or Federal work program your USDA authorizes.
Another alternative to work could be taking part in workfare for the number of hours assigned per month. Combining both work and training programs may also be possible. Of course, this will be possible as long as you do so for a total of 80 hours per month.
What if you don’t meet the ABAWD requirements while on SNAP?
For your information, if you are an Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents aged 18-54 and you do not meet the work requirements, you will lose SNAP benefits after just 3 months.
Do not worry if this has recently happened to you because it may still be possible to get back the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. the only two ways to get them back are:
- to become excused
- to meet the Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents work requirement for 30 days
If you are not willing to meet the ABAWD work requirement, you can simply wait until the three year period is over. Once the end of your 3-year period comes to an end, you will be able to apply for Food Stamps again.
SNAP can provide eligible recipients with a monthly payment of up to $292 for one member. If your household size is 2, you can get up to $536. Families of 4 can receive up to $975. These maximum amounts are the same in the 48 contiguous States and the District of Columbia.
What documentation is required to prove eligibility for ABAWD exemptions?
To prove eligibility for ABAWD (Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents) exemptions, you need to provide documentation that supports your exemption status. This documentation can include:
- A written statement from a doctor, nurse, social worker, or case manager confirming a physical or mental health condition that limits your ability to work.
- Proof of receiving Workers’ Compensation, Short or Long Term disability benefits, Social Security Disability benefits, or Veterans Benefits.
- Other documentation that verifies your exemption status, such as proof of pregnancy, being a student, or participating in a drug/alcohol treatment program
