For millions of Americans who find it difficult to purchase enough food, especially in times when other sources of income are limited, SNAP payments are an essential source of assistance. Any modifications to these advantages, though, could cause uncertainty and fear.
It may come as a surprise to those born in 1970 and 1971 that the new SNAP regulations would affect their eligibility for the program. These modifications may need you to meet additional requirements in order to qualify for payments of up to $1,751.
In reality, what is changing? More importantly, though, is what can you do to keep those advantages going rather than having them abruptly terminated? Now let’s get started.
What is the purpose of the SNAP benefit changes?
The goal of the federal aid program SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, is to help those with low incomes purchase food.
The program undergoes numerous modifications from time to time, primarily to ensure that only those who deserve the benefits receive them. The tightening of work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWD) is one of the key changes that have occurred recently.
The age range of 18 to 52 years old is affected by the most recent modification of SNAP. This new law will take effect in September 2024 and apply to everyone up to the age of 54, which covers those who were born between 1970 and 1971.
There is a lot you need to know if you fall into this age group in order to keep your benefits.
What Does the New SNAP Requirement Mean for You?
In order to be eligible for SNAP benefits, if you were born between 1970 and 1971, you will need to meet the new work requirement. If certain requirements aren’t met, the ABAWD rule limits how long someone can get SNAP benefits.
This law used to only apply to people who were between the ages of 18 and 52. The age restriction has been raised to 54 years old as of late. If you don’t meet the following requirements, you can only get benefits under the ABAWD rule for three months out of a three-year period:
- Work 80 hours or more a month: This can be volunteer work, paid work, or any combination of the two.
- Take part in a job training program: You can fulfill this criterion by attending one of the numerous states’ job training programs. Vocational training or other skill-building exercises may fall under this category.
- Engage in a workfare program: In certain states, beneficiaries are permitted to work in order to maintain their benefits. This course may be included in a project including community service.
After three months, you will no longer be eligible for SNAP benefits if you do not achieve these standards. This guideline aims to encourage people to work toward independence or learn how to work in order to become self-sufficient.
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Who is Not Allowed to Use the New SNAP Requirement?
It is not necessary for everyone who was born in 1970 or 1971 to worry about this change. For people who might not be able to complete the labor requirement because of specific circumstances, there are several exceptions offered. These exclusions consist of:
- People with disabilities: You are not covered by the ABAWD rule if your physical or mental impairment prevents you from working.
- Expectant mothers: Mothers receiving SNAP benefits are exempt from the job requirement during their pregnancy.
Attendants: Another exception is if you are the only caregiver for an adult who is incapable of taking care of themselves or a child. - Students who are enrolled: As long as they are still enrolled in classes, students who attend classes at least half-time are exempt from the work or training requirements.
Additionally, in situations where there are few jobs available or a high unemployment rate, certain locations are exempt from the ABAWD rule. It is advised that you get in touch with your neighborhood SNAP office to see if you are eligible for any such waivers.
Read Also:Â Texas SNAP Benefits Boost: Can You Really Get $1,751 in September?
If you don’t meet the new requirement, what will happen?
Your SNAP benefits may end after three months if you are unable to fulfill the new work requirement. But, should your situation change, you are eligible to reapply for benefits. For example, you might be able to reapply for SNAP benefits if you become hired or enroll in a training program.
For those who rely on SNAP to sustain themselves and their family, losing benefits can be catastrophic. Because of this, it’s critical to understand the new guidelines and begin adjusting to them as soon as possible.
