New SNAP Work Requirements 2026: Who Exempts and How to Keep Benefits

Millions of Americans could face changes to their SNAP benefits after new federal rules expanded work requirements and shifted more program costs to the states.

About 5.2 million fewer people received SNAP in June 2026 than in July 2025, according to an analysis of USDA.
 

Who is affected by the new SNAP work rules?

Under the expanded rules, many adults ages 18 through 64 must complete at least 80 hours per month of work, approved job training, volunteer service or a combination of qualifying activities.

Parents whose youngest child is between 14 and 17 may also be subject to the requirement. Having a teenager no longer automatically provides the same exemption.

People who do not meet the requirement or qualify for an exemption may generally receive SNAP for only three months during a 36-month period. 

Applying for jobs alone may not satisfy the requirement. Contact your state SNAP agency before starting work, training or volunteer activities to confirm what counts and how to document the hours.
 

Who may be exempt?

Possible exemptions include:

• Pregnancy.

• A physical or mental condition that prevents working.

• Responsibility for a child younger than 14.

• Other exemptions recognized under federal or state rules.

If a health condition affects your ability to work, ask your SNAP office what medical documentation it requires. Do not assume the agency knows about your condition unless you report it and provide the requested information.
 

What to do if your SNAP benefits are reduced

If you receive a notice that your food assistance is ending or being reduced:

1. Read the reason and deadline carefully.

2. Check whether the issue involves income, missing documents, renewal paperwork or work hours.

3. Ask whether you qualify for an exemption.

4. Confirm which work, training or volunteer activities count.

5. Request a fair hearing if you disagree.

6. Keep copies of all forms, notices and documents you submit.

Your state or local SNAP office, not the USDA directly, handles your application and benefit case. Use the USDA’s state SNAP directory to find the correct office.
 

States now pay more administrative costs

Starting October 1, 2026, states are required to cover 75% of SNAP administrative costs, up from 50%.

This change affects the cost of operating the program. It does not automatically reduce the amount deposited on an individual’s EBT card.

However, states may face budget and administrative pressure as they take on a larger share of SNAP costs.
 

Can you regain SNAP eligibility?

If your benefits have already ended, contact your state SNAP agency and ask how to reapply.

You may regain eligibility by:

• Meeting the 80-hour monthly activity requirement.

• Providing proof of an exemption.

• Completing a new application.

• Submitting missing documents.

• Meeting the program’s income and household requirements.

The agency will determine whether you qualify under the rules in your state.
 

Get emergency food assistance

If you need food immediately, ask whether you qualify for expedited SNAP processing. Eligible households may receive benefits within seven days of applying.

You can also contact the National Hunger Hotline:

• English: 1-866-348-6479.

• Spanish: 1-877-842-6273.

• Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern time.

The hotline can help locate nearby food banks, meal programs and other emergency food resources.
 

Bottom line

The new SNAP rules affect more adults and some parents of teenagers. If you are between 18 and 64, check whether you must complete 80 hours of work, training or qualifying volunteer activity each month.

If your benefits are reduced or stopped, review the notice, ask about exemptions and appeal promptly if you believe the decision is wrong. Start with your state’s official SNAP office, because that agency manages your case.

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