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Takeaways
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New federal rules, passed in July 2025, change who must meet work requirements to keep SNAP (food stamp) benefits.
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The age range for people who must meet these work rules has increased from 54 to 64. Many older adults who were previously exempt must now work, volunteer, or participate in training for at least 80 hours a month.
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Many previous exemptions have been removed or narrowed, including those for veterans and caregivers with children aged 14 to 17.
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Adults aged 55–64 should check with their state SNAP office about submitting documentation or applying for other exemptions to keep their benefits.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, passed in July 2025, made major changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program’s work requirements, especially for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs). Recipients must comply with the new rules starting in 2026.
What Is SNAP?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps people with low incomes buy groceries and maintain access to adequate nutrition. The U.S. Department of Agriculture oversees SNAP, while states operate the program. Recipients get monthly benefits on an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card. They can use it at grocery stores and farmers markets. SNAP reduces hunger, improves health, and supports food security for millions, including children, older adults, people with disabilities, and working families.
What’s Changing With SNAP Work Rules
Here are the key changes taking effect or being enforced in 2026.
Expanded Work Requirements
Under the new rules, adults aged 18 to 64 who are not exempt must:
- Work at least 80 hours per month (about 20 hours a week)
- Participate in approved employment and training programs, community service, or job training
- Volunteer enough hours to meet the 80-hour requirement
If recipients do not meet these requirements, SNAP benefits generally last no more than three months within any three-year period.
Fewer Exemptions, Including for Many Older Adults
Previously, certain people automatically qualified for exemptions. The One Big Beautiful Bill removed or narrowed several of these, including:
- Veterans (no longer automatically exempt)
- People experiencing homelessness (no longer exempt)
- Individuals who aged out of foster care (no longer exempt)
- Parents and caregivers (now exempt only if the youngest child is under 14; previously under 18)
The upper age for the work requirement increased from 54 to 64. Many older adults now fall under the new rules unless another exemption applies. Adults aged 55–64 who were previously exempt must now work or meet approved engagement requirements to keep SNAP benefits beyond the time limit.
Exemptions That Are Still in Place
Some groups remain exempt:
- People aged 65 and older
- Individuals unable to work due to certain disabilities or medical conditions
- Pregnant or postpartum individuals
- Parents with dependents under age 14
States can waive work requirements only in areas with unemployment over 10 percent. Waivers are now harder to obtain than under the old system.
Summary: New SNAP Eligibility 2026
| Category | 2026 Requirement / Status |
|---|---|
| Age for Work Rules | Expanded from 18–54 to 18–64 |
| Monthly Hours | 80 hours (work, volunteer, or training) |
| Caregiver Exemption | Only for children under age 14 |
| Exempt Status | Adults 65+, pregnant individuals, certain disabilities |
How These Changes Are Being Implemented in 2026
Most states must apply the updated SNAP work requirements, including the expanded age groups and removed exemptions, by February 1. States will conduct eligibility reviews, recertifications, and verify work and participation documentation throughout 2026. Many older adults who were previously exempt must now provide proof of work, training, or community participation if under age 65 and without another exemption.
What This Means for Older Adults
Adults Ages 55 to 64
SNAP recipients aged 55–64 may now need to meet work requirements unless they qualify for exemptions such as disability, pregnancy, or caregiving for a child under 14. Some states are already notifying recipients that they must participate in work activities or risk losing benefits.
Recipients who cannot meet work requirements and do not qualify for an exemption may only receive SNAP for three months over three years unless they complete the required work, volunteering, education, or training hours.
Adults 65 and Over
People aged 65 or older remain exempt from ABAWD work requirements. However, they must still meet other SNAP eligibility rules, such as income limits, to continue receiving benefits.
What to Do
Older adults and caregivers should:
- Check with their state SNAP agency to see if they must submit work verification or other documentation
- Ask whether they qualify for exemptions, such as medical, caregiving, or disability
- Explore options like volunteering or job training programs that count toward required hours
- If support is needed finding work or learning new job skills, check out your local SNAP Employment and Training program
Need Help Navigating SNAP Changes?
If you or a loved one are aged 55–64 and unsure how the new SNAP work requirements affect your benefits, our elder law attorneys can help. We provide guidance on exemptions, documentation, and your legal options to ensure you maintain access to essential nutrition benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is exempt from SNAP work requirements in 2026?
Individuals aged 65 and older, pregnant individuals, and those with medically documented disabilities remain exempt. Caregivers are now only exempt if their child is under 14 years old.
What is the new age limit for SNAP work rules?
The upper age limit for work requirements increased from 54 to 64. Adults in the 55–64 age bracket must now meet 80-hour monthly work or activity requirements.
How many hours do I need to work for SNAP?
You must complete at least 80 hours per month. This can be through paid work, volunteering, community service, or participating in an approved job training program.
