Lost Your SNAP Benefits? Here’s How to Restore Them After ABAWD Work Requirements!

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) plays a vital role in helping millions of Americans afford food. However, some individuals classified as Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) may lose their benefits if they fail to meet specific work requirements. If you have lost your SNAP benefits, don’t worry—there are ways to restore them. This guide explains how you can regain your benefits by understanding ABAWD rules, meeting work requirements, qualifying for exemptions, and utilizing available resources.

Understanding ABAWD Work Requirements

An ABAWD is an individual who meets the following criteria:

• Between the ages of 18 and 54
• Not disabled
• Without dependents (no children or other dependents living in the household)

To continue receiving SNAP benefits beyond three months in a 36-month period, ABAWDs must fulfill one of the following work requirements:

• Work at least 80 hours per month (approximately 20 hours per week)
• Participate in a state-approved employment and training (E&T) program
• Perform community service or volunteer work to meet the work hour requirement

If these conditions are not met, SNAP benefits are limited to three months within a three-year period. This rule encourages ABAWDs to engage in work-related activities to promote self-sufficiency.

Why Did I Lose My SNAP Benefits?

If your SNAP benefits have been discontinued, it could be due to the following reasons:

1. Failure to Meet Work Requirements

If you were not working at least 80 hours per month, your SNAP benefits may have been stopped. The program requires proof of employment or an alternative qualifying activity.

2. Not Participating in a Qualifying Program

You may have lost benefits if you were not enrolled in a state-approved job training, education, or employment assistance program.

3. Exceeding the Time Limit

ABAWD recipients who do not meet work requirements can only receive SNAP for three months in a 36-month period. If you reached this limit without fulfilling work-related activities, your benefits may have ended.

Tip: Always check your state’s specific SNAP rules, as some have additional exemptions and requirements.

How to Restore Your SNAP Benefits

1. Meet the Work Requirement

The most straightforward way to regain SNAP benefits is to fulfill the work requirement:

• Work at least 80 hours over a 30-day period.
• This includes paid employment, self-employment, or volunteer work.
• Proof Needed: Pay stubs, employer letters, or documentation of volunteer hours.

2. Participate in an Approved Program

Enroll in a state-approved Employment and Training (E&T) program, which can include:

• Job search assistance
• Vocational training or education courses
• Work experience programs

Note: Programs must be approved by your state’s SNAP agency to count toward the work requirements.

3. Qualify for an Exemption

Some individuals may qualify for an exemption from ABAWD requirements. You may be exempt if you:

• Have a medical condition that limits your ability to work
• Are pregnant
• Are caring for an incapacitated person
• Receive unemployment benefits and are actively seeking work

If you believe you qualify for an exemption, provide documentation such as medical records, a doctor’s note, or proof of caregiver responsibilities.

4. Live in a Waived Area

Some regions with high unemployment or a lack of available jobs have waivers that temporarily suspend ABAWD time limits.

• Check if your county or state has an active waiver by contacting your local SNAP office or visiting the USDA’s ABAWD Waiver List.
• If you live in a waived area, you may continue receiving SNAP benefits without meeting work requirements.

5. Reapply for SNAP Benefits

Once you meet the necessary conditions, you must reapply for benefits by:

• Submitting a new application to your state’s SNAP agency (available online or at a local office).
• Providing documentation proving you have met the work requirement or qualify for an exemption.

Tip: Reapply as soon as possible to minimize any gap in receiving benefits.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenge: Finding 80 Hours of Work

Solution: Consider part-time jobs, gig work, or community service opportunities. Check with local nonprofits, charities, or religious organizations for volunteer opportunities that meet SNAP requirements.

Challenge: Enrolling in a Training Program

Solution: Contact your state’s SNAP Employment and Training (E&T) program for available options and assistance. Many states offer free or low-cost job training programs.

Challenge: Documentation Issues

Solution: Keep detailed records of work hours, participation in training programs, and any other relevant documents. Request written proof from employers or program coordinators.

How to Stay Informed and Avoid Future Benefit Loss

1. Monitor Your SNAP Status Regularly

• Keep track of your benefit period and work requirements to avoid unexpected terminations.
• Check your state’s SNAP website for updates.

2. Stay in Touch with Your Local SNAP Office

• Contact your local SNAP office for guidance on meeting work requirements and eligibility.
• Request alerts or notifications about program changes.

3. Use Online Resources

• Visit the USDA SNAP website for official updates and policy changes.
• Explore job search platforms that partner with SNAP Employment and Training programs.

4. Stay Prepared for Recertification

• SNAP benefits require periodic recertification.
• Make sure to submit renewal applications on time and provide necessary documentation.

Real-Life Success Stories

Case 1: Regaining SNAP Benefits Through Work

David, a 30-year-old ABAWD recipient, lost his benefits after failing to meet the work requirement. He secured a part-time job working 20 hours per week and provided pay stubs as proof. After reapplying, his SNAP benefits were reinstated within a month.

Case 2: Qualifying for an Exemption

Maria, a 45-year-old woman, lost her benefits because she was unemployed. However, she had a medical condition that limited her ability to work. By submitting a doctor’s note, she was granted an exemption and regained her benefits.

Case 3: Utilizing an Employment and Training Program

Jake, a 22-year-old job seeker, enrolled in a state-approved job training program. The program provided skills training and counted toward his work requirement. After completing the program, he reapplied and successfully restored his benefits.