Losing SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits due to ABAWD (Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents) work rules can be overwhelming. If you recently lost food assistance, you are not alone. Many recipients face challenges navigating work requirements, exemptions, and reinstatement options.
This guide will walk you through why benefits are lost, how to qualify again, and steps to regain SNAP benefits effectively. You will also learn how to avoid future disruptions, what work activities qualify, and how state-specific policies can affect your eligibility.
ABAWD Work Rules: Key Highlights
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| What is ABAWD? | Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents, aged 18-52, must meet work rules. |
| Work Requirements | 80 hours/month of work, training, or approved activity to stay eligible. |
| Exemptions | Includes disabilities, pregnancy, veterans, homelessness, and more. |
| Regaining Benefits | Meet work requirements, qualify for an exemption, or reapply after ineligibility period. |
| State-Specific Waivers | Some states offer temporary waivers due to high unemployment. |
| Official Resource | USDA SNAP Work Requirements |
Losing SNAP benefits due to ABAWD work rules can be stressful, but there are ways to regain eligibility. Whether through exemptions, meeting work requirements, or checking for state waivers, you have options to restore food assistance.
If you believe you qualify for SNAP again, take action as soon as possible to avoid delays. Visit your state’s SNAP agency to check eligibility and start the process today.
Understanding ABAWD and SNAP Work Rules
What Is ABAWD?
The term ABAWD (Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents) refers to SNAP recipients aged 18-52 who do not have dependents and are considered physically and mentally fit for work.
Under federal SNAP rules, ABAWDs must meet specific work requirements to continue receiving benefits. These rules apply in most states, but some areas may have waivers due to high unemployment rates or economic hardships.
How ABAWD Work Requirements Affect SNAP Benefits
If you are considered an ABAWD, you must work at least 80 hours per month in one of the following ways:
- A paid job (full-time or part-time)
- Volunteer work or community service
- A job training program
- A state-approved educational program
- Participating in workfare, if available in your state
If you fail to meet these requirements for three months within a 36-month period, you will lose SNAP benefits until you become eligible again.
Why You Lost Your SNAP Benefits
Common Reasons for Losing SNAP Benefits Under ABAWD Rules
- Not meeting the 80-hour monthly work requirement
- Failing to report work activity to your state agency
- Living in a state or county without a waiver for ABAWD rules
- Missing paperwork or failing to renew eligibility on time
- Not enrolling in an approved training or educational program
- Unaware of exemption status or failing to report changes
Some people lose their benefits simply because they didn’t know about the reporting rules or were unaware of available exemptions.
How to Get Your SNAP Benefits Back
Step 1: Determine If You Qualify for an Exemption
If you lost benefits, you might be exempt from ABAWD rules. Here are the most common exemptions:
- Under 18 or over 52 years old
- Pregnant
- Physically or mentally unable to work
- Living with a dependent child in your household
- Receiving disability-related benefits
- Experiencing homelessness
- A veteran
- Enrolled in a drug or alcohol treatment program
- Caring for an incapacitated person
What to do: Contact your local SNAP office and submit proof of exemption (doctor’s note, disability determination, proof of pregnancy, etc.).
Step 2: Meet the Work Requirements Again
If you are not exempt, you must restart meeting work requirements. Options include:
- Find a part-time job (minimum of 20 hours per week)
- Enroll in a SNAP-approved employment or training program
- Do volunteer work (check if your state allows this to count)
- Participate in a workfare program, if available in your area
Once you meet these requirements for a full month, you can reapply for benefits.
Step 3: Reapply for SNAP Benefits
After regaining eligibility, you must submit a new application to your local SNAP office. Follow these steps:
- Gather required documents (ID, income proof, work/training records, exemption proof, if applicable).
- Complete a SNAP application online or in person (Find your state SNAP agency).
- Attend an interview (if required).
- Receive approval and benefits reinstatement (this can take up to 30 days).
Step 4: Check If Your State Has ABAWD Waivers
Some states or counties have waivers that pause ABAWD work rules due to high unemployment. If you live in an area with a waiver, you may still qualify for SNAP without meeting work requirements.
Check SNAP waivers by state here
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I get SNAP benefits back after losing them?
Yes, if you meet work requirements again, qualify for an exemption, or reapply after the ineligibility period.
2. How long do I have to wait before reapplying for SNAP?
If you do not qualify for an exemption and did not meet work rules, you must wait until the next eligibility period (typically 36 months) or resume work and reapply.
3. What if I can’t find a job?
You can still meet requirements by enrolling in job training, volunteering, or checking for state waivers.
4. What documents do I need to reapply for SNAP?
- Proof of identity (ID, Social Security Number)
- Income proof (pay stubs, tax return, unemployment benefits letter)
- Proof of work or exemption (training enrollment, doctor’s note, exemption verification)
5. Does volunteer work count toward work requirements?
Yes, in some states, volunteer work may count toward the 80-hour/month work requirement. Check with your local SNAP office for details.
