SNAP Work Requirements 2026 - ABAWD Rules by State

SNAP Work Requirements 2026

The SNAP program includes work requirements that primarily affect Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) aged 18 through 54. Under federal law, ABAWDs are generally limited to receiving SNAP benefits for only three months within a 36-month period unless they meet the work requirement of at least 80 hours per month. The 80-hour requirement can be met through employment, self-employment, participation in a qualifying education or training program, community service, or a combination of these activities.

There are several important exemptions from the ABAWD time limit. You are exempt if you are pregnant, physically or mentally unfit for employment (as determined by a medical professional), responsible for the care of a dependent child under 18 or an incapacitated household member, participating in a drug or alcohol treatment or rehabilitation program, experiencing homelessness, or a student enrolled at least half-time in a qualifying educational program. These exemptions recognize that many adults face significant barriers to employment and should not be penalized with hunger as a result.

State Flexibility and Waivers

States have flexibility in how they implement the ABAWD time limit. States may request waivers from the USDA for areas with unemployment rates above 10% or where there are insufficient jobs available. Some states have also chosen to use state funds to exempt all ABAWDs from the time limit, effectively providing continuous benefits to eligible adults regardless of their work status. As of 2026, several states including California, Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington do not enforce the ABAWD time limit.

SNAP Employment and Training Programs

For those who are subject to the work requirement and need help meeting it, many states offer SNAP Employment and Training (E&T) programs that provide job search assistance, skills training, work experience, transportation assistance, and other support services at no cost. These programs are designed to help ABAWDs meet the 80-hour monthly requirement while also developing the skills and experience needed to secure stable employment. Contact your local SNAP office to learn about E&T opportunities in your area. Participating in an E&T program counts toward the 80-hour monthly requirement.

General Work Requirements

In addition to the ABAWD time limit, all able-bodied SNAP recipients are subject to general work requirements. These include registering for work (unless already employed or exempt), not voluntarily quitting a job of 30+ hours per week or reducing hours below 30 without good cause, accepting suitable job offers, and participating in assigned employment and training programs. Failure to comply with these general requirements without good cause can result in benefit disqualification for varying periods, typically 1-6 months for the first violation and longer for subsequent violations.

It is important to note that the ABAWD time limit applies only to adults aged 18-54 who do not have dependents. Adults with children in the household, seniors, and people with disabilities are not subject to the time limit regardless of their employment status. Select your state above to learn about the specific work requirements and available exemptions in your state.