According to Vibes.okdiario The USDA provides a safety net for low-income Americans aged 18-54 without children by offering Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. However, there are time limits in place for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) that restrict eligibility to three months within a three-year period, unless specific criteria are met.
If you’re in the ABAWD category and want to continue receiving benefits beyond the 3-month limit, you can meet the requirement by working at least 80 hours per month. This rule affects individuals, including those aged 53 or 54, who must adhere to the work requirement starting October 1. If you fail to meet this requirement, January could be the last month for which you qualify for SNAP.
Alternatives if You Can’t Find a Job: If you’re unable to find regular work, there are alternatives to meet the ABAWD work requirement. For example, you can participate in programs like SNAP Employment and Training, or other local, state, or federal work programs approved by your Food Stamps office.
Additionally, combining work with training hours can fulfill the 80-hour per month requirement. You could work for 40 hours and spend another 40 hours in training, which may help you secure employment.
Another option is workfare, where you work for your benefits through community service or other work programs.
Also Read –Social Security’s Key Advice for SSDI Applicants to Prevent Payment Processing Issues
Exemptions from the ABAWD Work Requirement: Certain individuals are exempt from the ABAWD work requirement. Those who qualify for exemptions include:
- People with a qualifying disability
- Pregnant individuals
- Individuals with dependents under 18
- Veterans
- People experiencing homelessness
- Young adults up to age 24 who were in foster care on their 18th birthday
These exemptions mean that if you fall into any of these categories, you are not required to meet the ABAWD work rule.
By understanding the eligibility and exceptions, you can ensure continued access to SNAP benefits and make sure you’re meeting the necessary criteria to avoid losing assistance.
- What your $975 SNAP payment can buy, and can’t, for a great Christmas meal in December - December 9, 2024
- Changes in SNAP benefits new assistance for retirees over 60 years old - December 9, 2024
- Cocaine Worth $900,000 Found in Hot Chocolate Shipment at Dulles Airport - December 9, 2024