How to Restore SNAP Benefits After Loss Due to ABAWD Work Requirements and Time Limits

The SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) provides essential financial support for millions of Americans to help cover grocery costs. However, certain SNAP recipients between the ages of 18 and 54, who do not have dependents or specific exemptions, must meet the Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) work requirements.

Failing to meet these requirements can lead to a loss of benefits after three months within a three-year period. Here’s what you need to know if you’re at risk of losing SNAP benefits or need help regaining them.

ABAWD Work Requirement

The ABAWD work requirement applies to able-bodied adults between 18 and 54 who do not have dependents and are not exempt. To retain SNAP benefits, these recipients must complete at least 80 hours of qualifying activities monthly. Qualifying activities may include paid employment, volunteer work, or participation in certain job training programs. If they do not meet these requirements, they may lose benefits after three months.

Regaining Benefits

If you’ve lost SNAP benefits due to non-compliance with the ABAWD requirement, there are ways to regain them. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) outlines steps for reapplying, which generally include complying with the ABAWD requirement for at least 30 days to requalify.

Exemptions

Certain groups may be exempt from the ABAWD work requirement, allowing them to continue receiving benefits even without meeting the 80-hour work requirement. Here are seven ways to qualify for an exemption:

1. Former Foster Youth: If you’re 24 years old or younger and were in foster care at age 18, you’re eligible for an exemption.
2. Experiencing Homelessness: Individuals experiencing homelessness can qualify for a waiver from the ABAWD requirement.
3. Veteran Status: Veterans are not required to meet the ABAWD work requirement to maintain their SNAP benefits.
4. Pregnancy: Pregnant individuals qualify for an exemption and can continue to receive SNAP benefits without the work requirement.
5. Household Dependents: If you have a child or another person under 18 in your household, you’re exempt from the ABAWD requirement.
6. Disability: Individuals with a mental or physical disability are excused from the ABAWD work requirement as long as their condition qualifies.
7. Other Qualifying Conditions: Some other conditions may allow exemptions depending on local SNAP office guidelines.

These exemptions ensure that vulnerable individuals who may struggle to meet the ABAWD work requirement can continue receiving essential benefits.

SNAP Benefits

If you are unable to meet the ABAWD work requirements, there are other methods to maintain or regain SNAP benefits:

• Waiting Period: If you lose benefits due to non-compliance, you can wait out the three-year period. Once this period ends, you’ll be eligible to receive SNAP benefits for another three months without meeting the ABAWD requirement.
• Participate in a Work or Volunteer Program: Engaging in an eligible work program or volunteering can help you retain SNAP benefits. It doesn’t matter if this work is paid or unpaid, as long as it meets the program’s standards.

Key Takeaways

Addressing the ABAWD work requirements and the exemptions available can help you avoid unnecessary disruptions in your SNAP benefits. If you’re at risk of losing benefits, consider exploring alternative options like volunteering or job training programs that can fulfill the ABAWD requirement. If you qualify for an exemption, make sure to notify your local SNAP office to secure your benefits.

Whether through compliance, exemption, or volunteering, there are ways to maintain access to SNAP benefits and ensure food security for yourself and your family.

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