Upcoming SNAP Changes: Work Requirements, Benefit Increase, and Government Shutdown Concerns

Starting October 1, changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will require able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) aged 51 to 52 to prove they are actively working, training, or in school to qualify for benefits. Previously, this requirement only applied to ABAWDs aged 18 to 52. Exemptions include homeless individuals, veterans, and youth aged 18 to 24 who aged out of foster care. Those who do not meet the work requirements will only be eligible for SNAP benefits for three months in a three-year period. Additionally, most SNAP recipients will receive larger benefit amounts due to a cost-of-living adjustment.