New Federal Work Requirements Affect Certain SNAP Recipients

Notices have been issued to approximately 44,700 Nevadans who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits informing them that they will lose SNAP eligibility effective March 1 for not meeting .

An Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents (ABAWD) is an individual who is aged 18 to 64, is physically and mentally able to work and who does not have a child under age 14 in the SNAP household. As of Dec. 1, to maintain SNAP eligibility ABAWDs must work a minimum of 20 hours per week or participate in approved activities such as job readiness programs, volunteering or job searching.

In mid-November just over 72,000 individuals who were not meeting ABAWD work requirements or qualifying for an allowable exemption were notified of the new requirements.  Last week, follow-up notices were sent to SNAP recipients who may not be meeting the new guidelines, qualify for an exemption, or who have not yet notified the Division of Social Services (DSS) of their current compliance.

Another significant change is that veterans, youth who have aged out of foster care, and individuals experiencing homelessness are no longer exempt from work requirements. Under the new guidelines established by H.R. 1, the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” these exemptions have been eliminated. Approximately 433,000 Nevadans currently receive SNAP benefits.

“The Nevada Division of Social Services has been working with various community partners to identify volunteer opportunities to help those impacted individuals,” DSS Deputy Administrator Kelly Cantrelle said. “DSS remains committed to supporting Nevadans with accessing the benefits they need while also helping them overcome barriers to employment.”

Individuals who would like to engage in approved work activities are encouraged to email DSS with “ABAWD opportunities” in the subject line. DSS has set up the webpage linked here to assist with locating volunteer opportunities, approved work programs and local resources.  Eligibility for SNAP benefits can be restored as these federal mandates are met.

About the Division of Social Services

The Nevada Division of Social Services (DSS) administers programs that provide essential support to individuals and families across the state, including food assistance, medical coverage, energy assistance and employment-related services. To apply for assistance please visit accessnevada.nv.gov.

About Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs)

• Aged 18 – 64
• Are physically and mentally able to work
• Do not have a child under age 14 in the SNAP household