The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced new work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that take effect in February 2026. These changes alter who must meet work or employment-related activities to keep receiving benefits.
What the USDA Sets New Work Requirements for SNAP Change
The rule expands time limits and work participation obligations for certain SNAP recipients. It focuses on adults without dependent children and tightens exemptions and reporting rules. The aim is to increase work search, training, or employment among able-bodied adults.
Key changes include stricter count of months receiving SNAP without qualifying work activities, longer work-search documentation, and clearer penalties for noncompliance. States will need to follow new tracking and verification steps starting in February 2026.
Main elements of the new SNAP work rules
- Reinforced time limits for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs).
- Expanded list of qualifying work activities, plus documentation requirements.
- New state reporting obligations to USDA on participation and exemptions.
- Revised rules about consecutive and cumulative months of noncompliance.
Who Will Be Affected by the USDA Sets New Work Requirements for SNAP
The policy primarily affects able-bodied adults aged 18 to 49 who do not live with dependents. These recipients are often referred to as ABAWDs. Many full-time students, people with documented disabilities, and caregivers may remain exempt.
Other groups that could be affected include:
- Adults in job training or transitional employment programs that do not meet new definitions.
- People in areas where states end temporary area-wide waivers.
- Recipients who fail to document required hours or activities in the new reporting system.
Who is likely exempt
- Recipients who are pregnant or have a documented disability.
- Caregivers for young children or seriously ill household members when certified by state rules.
- Individuals participating in approved work programs that meet federal hour and verification standards.
How the New SNAP Work Requirements Will Be Enforced
States must implement verification systems to confirm hours worked, job training, community service, or job search. SNAP recipients will receive notices explaining required documentation and deadlines. Failure to comply can lead to benefit suspension after warning and appeal processes.
States can request exemptions for areas facing high unemployment or insufficient job opportunities, but those waivers are more narrowly defined under the new rule.
Practical steps states and recipients should expect
- Monthly or quarterly reporting of hours for qualifying activities.
- Increased coordination between employment services and SNAP offices.
- Clearer guidance on acceptable types of work, training, and volunteer placements.
How to Prepare: Steps for SNAP Recipients
If you or someone you assist receives SNAP, start by checking eligibility status now. Contact your state SNAP office for specific implementation details and local exemptions. Keep accurate records of work, training, and job search activities.
Actionable steps:
- Request a clear list from your state SNAP office of qualifying activities and documentation formats.
- Keep pay stubs, training attendance, employer letters, or timesheets organized monthly.
- Enroll in state-approved job search or training programs if you need hours to qualify.
- Ask about transitional support services, like transportation or childcare assistance, that can help meet work requirements.
Under the new rules, states will verify work activities more frequently than before, and time limits for ABAWDs may be counted differently when months are nonconsecutive.
Case Study: A Real-World Example
Maria is a 28-year-old single parent in Ohio who receives SNAP and works part-time 15 hours per week. Before the rule change she qualified for an exemption because she was enrolled in a part-time community college program.
Under the new USDA rules, Maria must confirm that her schooling counts as an approved training activity and document monthly hours. She contacts her local SNAP office and the college career center to register for a state-approved training track and starts saving attendance records and class schedules to meet verification requirements.
This small change—documenting hours and enrolling in an approved program—helps Maria keep her benefits while she completes job-focused training.
Appeals, Assistance, and Where to Get Help
If benefits are reduced or stopped, request a fair hearing immediately. States must provide appeal instructions in decision notices. Legal aid organizations, community action agencies, and local food banks can offer guidance on appeals, documentation, and connecting to work supports.
Resources to contact:
- Your state SNAP office or website for official guidance and forms.
- Local Workforce Development Boards for approved work and training programs.
- Legal aid societies for help with appeals and rights counseling.
Final Notes on the USDA Sets New Work Requirements for SNAP
These changes focus on verified work and training activities and tighten exemptions and reporting. If you are affected, take proactive steps now to document qualifying activities and connect with state employment services.
Stay informed by reviewing state notices, asking caseworkers for written guidance, and using community resources to meet the new requirements. Early preparation will reduce the risk of benefit loss and help transition to stable employment over time.