Losing SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits can be challenging, especially for those unable to meet the work requirements for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD).
For Americans aged 18-54 who aren’t exempt, SNAP benefits are limited to three months within a three-year period unless they meet specific work criteria.
However, the USDA offers several ways to regain or maintain benefits by either meeting ABAWD work requirements or obtaining an exemption. Here’s how to get your benefits back.
Understanding ABAWD Requirements
ABAWD work requirements are designed for adults aged 18-54 who don’t have dependents or exemptions. To retain benefits beyond three months in a three-year period, ABAWD individuals must:
- Work or participate in an approved work program for at least 80 hours a month (about 20 hours per week)
- Engage in volunteer work that meets the required hours
- Participate in qualifying work training programs (paid or unpaid)
If these requirements aren’t met, benefits may be suspended. However, there are several ways to regain benefits.
How to Get SNAP Benefits Back
If you’ve lost your benefits due to the ABAWD work requirement, you can potentially regain them by fulfilling one of the following:
- Meet the 30-Day Work Requirement: If you complete 80 hours of work or an eligible work activity in a consecutive 30-day period, you can reapply for SNAP benefits.
- Qualify for an Exemption: If you become exempt, you can reapply and qualify for SNAP benefits without the ABAWD work requirement. Here’s how:
7 Ways to Qualify for an ABAWD Exemption
If meeting the work requirement is challenging, certain conditions may exempt you from it. You could qualify for an ABAWD exemption if you meet any of these criteria:
- Age-Based Exemption: If you are under 24 and were in foster care on your 18th birthday, you qualify for an exemption.
- Experiencing Homelessness: Those without a fixed, stable living situation may qualify for an exemption.
- Veteran Status: Veterans are generally exempt from the ABAWD work requirement.
- Pregnancy: Pregnant individuals are automatically exempt from the work requirement.
- Disability: Any physical or mental disability that meets qualifying standards can exempt you from ABAWD requirements. Both temporary and permanent disabilities are considered as long as they are verified.
- Caring for a Child Under 18: If you are responsible for a child under 18 in your household, you’re exempt from the work requirement.
- Caring for an Incapacitated Person: If you are the primary caregiver for someone who cannot care for themselves due to illness, disability, or other factors, you may qualify for an exemption.
Waiting Out the Time Limit
If you are unable to meet the work requirements or qualify for an exemption, your SNAP eligibility will reset after three years. Following this period, you’ll be able to receive benefits again for another three-month period, even if you don’t meet the work requirements.
Alternative Options to Retain SNAP Benefits
While waiting or attempting to regain benefits, here are additional strategies that may help you maintain eligibility:
- Join an Eligible Work or Training Program: Many programs, including SNAP Employment and Training (E&T), can qualify you to retain benefits. These programs may include job search assistance, skill development, or educational programs.
- Volunteer Work: Volunteering for 80 hours a month can fulfill the ABAWD work requirement, regardless of whether the work is paid. Community centers, local charities, and other nonprofit organizations often need volunteers, and this can provide a pathway to meeting the requirement.
If you’ve lost SNAP benefits due to the ABAWD work requirement, options are available to regain or extend your benefits. By meeting a 30-day work requirement, obtaining an exemption, or waiting for the eligibility reset period, you can reapply and potentially restore assistance.
Additionally, alternatives like volunteering or joining work programs offer routes to satisfy ABAWD criteria without traditional employment. Staying proactive and exploring all options can help you regain the support you need for essential grocery expenses.
