by Che Gadison

   (Plain Press May 2026) Beginning February 1st, major changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) went into effect for many adults ages 18–64. These changes—known as the Able‑Bodied Adults (ABA) Work Rules—which requires certain SNAP recipients to meet a 20‑hour‑per‑week work, training or community service activity. With the first countable month beginning March 1st, and the last countable month ending May 31st, it is more important than ever for individuals to stay informed about their benefit status.

Why Checking Your Eligibility Matters

   Checking your eligibility regularly and making sure you meet the work requirements if they apply to you is necessary to prevent a termination of benefits.

   The new ABA Work Rules mean that some individuals who were previously exempt may now be required to meet work activity standards. If you are not exempt, you must do one of the following to keep your SNAP benefits: work 20 hours per week (80 hours per month), or participate in a SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) program for at least 20 hours per week and complete qualifying community service hours.

   One of the most significant changes introduced under H.R. 1 is the expansion of work requirements to include adults ages 60–64 who are not disabled, are not caring for a dependent, are not enrolled at least half‑time in school or training and who do not meet other exemption criteria. These individuals must now meet the same work or training requirements as younger ABA recipients. However, challenges that adults in the 60–64 age range could possibly face are reduced work hours, limited job opportunities, health challenges that may not qualify as formal disabilities and caregiving responsibilities for grandchildren or aging relatives.

   Remember, you may only receive SNAP for three months within a three‑year period without meeting the requirements or exemption. After that, you will have to be exempt or meet the work requirements for 30 days before you can qualify for benefits and they can be reinstated. If you work part‑time or have seasonal employment, you must: track your weekly hours, keep pay stubs or employer statements as proof of employment, notify your caseworker immediately if your hours drop.  

   If you do qualify for one of the following exemptions, it must be documented: Work or school reasons (earning $217.50/week, enrolled half‑time, receiving unemployment, etc.); Family caregiving responsibilities (caring for a child under 14, a child under 6, or a disabled adult); Personal reasons (Indigenous Tribal membership); and Health reasons (short‑ or long‑term physical or mental health issues, pregnancy, disability benefits, medical leave, substance use treatment).

   If you are unsure whether you are exempt from the new work requirements or need assistance in meeting the requirements, please call Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Customer Service: 1‑866‑386‑3071.

Editor’s Note: The author, Che Gadison, is a member of Northern Ohioans for Budget Legislation Equality (NOBLE).