EBT Benefits SNAP 2025

Proposed adjustments will increase the age limit for receiving benefits and require compliance with stricter work requirements for ABAWD recipients

Beginning October 1, 2024, the SNAP food stamp program in the United States will undergo significant changes that will directly impact Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs). These individuals, between the ages of 18 and 52 and without minor children in the household, will face new regulations that will redefine how they receive food support.

Major Changes

1. Benefit Limits: ABAWD recipients will be able to receive food stamps for a maximum of 3 months every 3 years unless they meet SNAP work requirements or have an exemption.
2. Work Requirements: Beginning in October, they must meet a work requirement of 80 hours per month. Activities that meet this requirement include paid work, work in exchange for goods or services, volunteering, and participation in approved job training programs. These may be combined to meet the required hours.
3. Exceptions to the New Rules: There are exceptions for certain categories of persons. Pregnant women, persons with physical or mental disabilities, single mothers with minor dependents, homeless persons and veterans will not be affected by these changes.

The adjustment will particularly affect adults seeking to benefit from these vouchers in states with high unemployment rates, where the ability to find employment that meets the 20 hours per week may be limited. If recipients fail to meet the new requirements or do not have a waiver, their benefits will be closed after 3 countable months, without the need for these months to be consecutive.

USDA Proposed Alternatives

To mitigate the impact, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has suggested alternatives to comply with the work requirements. These options include participating in 80-hour work programs, combining work with training, or engaging in other eligible employment programs. These measures are intended to provide a solution so that beneficiaries can continue to receive support without facing severe penalties.

With these changes, the SNAP program aims to adjust the way benefits are distributed, focusing on promoting active participation in the labor market while maintaining some exemptions for the most vulnerable cases.