The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps low-income Americans afford food, but recipients are typically required to meet work-related conditions. However, many people are exempt from these rules. In 2025, understanding who qualifies for exemptions can help prevent benefit loss.
General work requirements
Most SNAP recipients between ages 16 and 59 must meet general work requirements unless they qualify for an exemption.
General rules include:
- Registering for work
- Participating in state-mandated training or employment programs
- Accepting suitable job offers
- Not voluntarily quitting a job or reducing hours below 30 per week without good cause
Exemptions from general work rules:
- Working at least 30 hours per week (or earning equivalent wages)
- Meeting work rules for other programs like TANF or unemployment insurance
- Caring for a child under 6 or a disabled household member
- Having a verified physical or mental health condition
- Attending alcohol or drug treatment programs
- Being a student enrolled at least half-time (note: college students face separate rules)
Failure to comply can result in disqualification from SNAP for at least one month. Repeat violations can lead to longer or permanent disqualifications.
Rules for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWD)
Adults aged 18–54 with no dependents must meet stricter work requirements to receive benefits for more than three months in a three-year period.
To maintain eligibility, ABAWDs must:
- Work or volunteer at least 80 hours per month
- Enroll in a work or job training program for 80 hours monthly
- Combine work and training to meet the 80-hour threshold
- Participate in community service programs, as assigned by their state
ABAWD exemptions:
- Medically or mentally unable to work
- Pregnant
- Living with a child under 18
- Exempt from general work rules
- U.S. military veterans
- Homeless individuals
- Former foster youth under age 25
Age-related changes for ABAWD exemptions
Recent updates have raised the age limit for work exemptions under ABAWD:
- Exempt if over 51 starting September 2023
- Exempt if over 53 starting October 2023
- Exempt if over 55 starting October 2024
These gradual age increases were designed to reduce burdens on older adults with limited job access.
Why it matters
Staying informed about work requirements and exemption rules can protect your benefits. If you qualify for an exemption but haven’t reported it, you could be at risk of losing aid.
For more information or to check your status, visit fns.usda.gov/snap or contact your local SNAP office.
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