According to Vibes.okdiario , The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has a certification period that determines how long recipients can receive benefits. However, this period may not be the same for everyone. Certain groups, such as Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD), are subject to specific time limits and work requirements that can affect their eligibility for benefits.
What is the ABAWD Time Limit and Work Requirement?
The ABAWD rule applies to individuals aged 18-54 who are able to work. Under this rule, you must work at least 20 hours per week (or 80 hours per month) in order to continue receiving SNAP benefits for more than 3 months within a 3-year period. If you fail to meet this work requirement, you will lose your benefits after 3 months.
Who Will Be Affected by the ABAWD Time Limit in 2025?
Starting on October 1, 2024, the ABAWD time limit will apply to individuals aged 53 and 54. Previously, this rule did not affect them, but now they will need to meet the work requirement in order to keep receiving SNAP benefits. If they haven’t worked in October, November, and December 2024, and continue to receive SNAP, they will lose their benefits in 2025. If you’re in this age group, it’s essential to start meeting the work requirement to avoid losing your benefits.
Exemptions to the ABAWD Time Limit
While working is the primary way to comply with the ABAWD rule, there are exemptions that can help you avoid the time limit:
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, you are exempt from the work requirement.
- Disability: If you have a qualifying disability, you are not subject to the ABAWD rule.
- Children under 18: If you have a child under 18 in your household, you are exempt.
- Work Requirements Exemption: If you are already excused from general work requirements, you are also excused from the ABAWD rule.
- Veterans: Veterans are exempt from the ABAWD work requirements.
- Foster Care: If you were in foster care on your 18th birthday and are under 24, you are exempt.
Also Read – SNAP (Food Stamps) $292-$1,756 for eligible recipients from December 7 through 14
Alternatives to Working
If you live in an area with high unemployment or face difficulties meeting the work requirement, there are alternative ways to fulfill the ABAWD rule:
- Volunteering: Volunteering can count toward meeting the work requirement.
- Authorized SNAP Work Programs: Participation in certain authorized programs may count as work.
- Work and Training: Combining work with training can help meet the required hours.
- Workfare: If your state offers a workfare program, participating in it for the required hours can fulfill the work requirement.
Take Action Now
If you are affected by the ABAWD rule, it’s essential to take action before the new requirements take effect. Whether it’s starting a job, volunteering, or participating in a SNAP-approved program, meeting the work requirement is critical to maintaining your benefits. Make sure you stay informed and take steps to avoid losing your SNAP benefits in 2025.
- Who will receive a $1,800 Social Security payment this December 2024 - December 11, 2024
- Social Security payment of $3,822 for 66-67-year-olds to be issued in 2, or 9 days - December 11, 2024
- Social security payments who gets theirs this wednesday december 11 - December 11, 2024
