This article is for people who already have SNAP. If you are new to SNAP, read how to get SNAP.
What changed?
Starting March 1, 2026, SNAP has new work rules. More people have to work or prove they are looking for work, to qualify for SNAP. If someone does not follow the new rules, they could lose SNAP benefits in June 2026.
The new rules do not apply to everyone. You might qualify for an exemption.
What are the new work rules?
The new SNAP work rules require at least 80 hours of qualifying activities per month. That is about 20 hours per week. Qualifying activities include:
- Paid work
- Job training or work experience programs
- Job search activities
- Community service or volunteering
- Vocational education
- Caring for a child whose parent is doing community service
Who do these rules apply to?
In general, these rules apply to:
- Adults ages 18 to 64 (in the past, it was 18 to 54).
- Adults in households with children age 13 or older. (Before, having any child in the home was an exemption.)
The government calls these groups “Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents”, or ABAWDs.
The new rules also apply to some people who used to be automatically exempt:
- Veterans
- People experiencing homelessness
- Former foster youth
- Refugees
- People who have been trafficked
If you are in one of these groups, you might have to follow the new work rules.
However, there are some people who can get an exemption to the new rules.
Who can get an exemption to the new SNAP work requirements?
Some people do not have to follow the new work rules. You may be exempt if you:
- Are under 18 or 65 or older.
- Are pregnant.
- Are physically or mentally unable to work.*
- Are caring for a child under 13, or for a household member who has a disability.
- Are already working at least 80 hours per month.
- Are participating in a drug or alcohol treatment program.
- Are a full-time student.
*If your health makes it hard to work, ask your doctor or health provider to fill out a Medical Statement Form. Call or visit your nearest Social Services office and ask for the Medical Statement Form.
This is not a complete list. If you are not sure and you need help to understand, you can contact a legal aid organization for help. Visit LawHelpNY’s legal directory to find a legal aid office near you. Legal aid organizations do not have enough lawyers to help everyone, but it is always worth checking.
How will I know if these rules apply to me?
If you or someone in your household is identified as an ABAWD, your Social Services office will send you a notice explaining the new requirements. Read any letter carefully. The deadlines are important.
If you think you or someone in your household is exempt from the new work rules, call your Local District Contact Number as soon as possible.
Read any notices you get really carefully. You might need to send proof of the things you’ve been doing to meet the new rules or proof showing you qualify for an exemption.
How do I show I am meeting the work rules?
Be ready to provide documents showing your qualifying activities. Examples include:
- Pay stubs or employer letters
- Training program records
- Job search logs (your written list of everything you tried, with dates, names, places, and activities)
- Community service letters
- Vocational school enrollment records
What happens if I do not meet the work rules?
Your SNAP benefits could be reduced or stopped starting June 2026 if you do not meet the requirements.
This is why it is important to act as soon as you get a notice. Do not wait until your three-month window closes.
Can I appeal if I disagree?
Yes. If you think social services made a mistake, you can appeal. This is called a fair hearing. It is important to appeal quickly. Do not wait until your three months are up.
Need help?
If you have questions or need legal help, contact:
- Legal Services NYC: 917-661-4500 (Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4pm)
- LawHelpNY.org
- NYC work requirements info: access.nyc.gov/snap-work-requirements
- NYS work requirements info: otda.ny.gov/programs/snap/work-requirements.asp
- OTDA Hotline: 1-800-342-3009
Last Reviewed: April 23, 2026