(TheDailyCurrents.com) – While applying for SNAP or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, you will be provided a list of working requirements and income thresholds determining your eligibility for these benefits. While most applicants may be working, those not in an active daily job may need more clarification on these guidelines and how they pertain to their lifestyle.

What are the Working Guidelines?

Suppose someone is between 16 and 59 and able-bodied without any listed disabilities. In that case, they are expected to provide an income by working at least 30 hours a week and maintaining the employment and training program.

The employment must be considered suitable, and they are required to report these hours to their employer. SNAP applicants cannot willingly reduce their work hours or quit while receiving their benefits. Both of these actions can make someone lose their benefits.

Limitations on ABAWD Recipients

Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWD) are also required to meet these different working guidelines. They do have a stricter plan, however, since they do not have the dependent restrictions that other applicants have. They can apply and receive these benefits for up to three years, but they are expected to find gainful employment that will help them cover their expenses after that time.

There is a program component that these ABAWD individuals must do each week to help them boost their skills and become more prosperous members of society. Should employment circumstances change, or there is a change in dependents, the applicant can take advantage of the ABAWD Waiver and apply to continue receiving benefits without the time limit constraints.
 

Is There an Exception to These Guidelines?

In some cases, an individual cannot meet the standard work requirements. This does not automatically disqualify them from SNAP. They could still get partial or full benefits depending on their home situation. Those exemptions include the following:

• Mental or physical disability that is documented
• Currently receiving unemployment compensation
• Actively enrolled in school at least half-time, earning credit toward a degree
• Enrolled in a rehab program for alcohol or substance abuse
• Caregiver for a sick or disabled dependent

Except for the first and last exemptions, the others are temporary exemptions and are not expected to last beyond a specific period. There has to be proof that the applicant is working toward degree completion, program completion, and actively seeking employment.

Mental or Physical Disability

Having a mental or physical disability documented could be considered long-term or short-term, depending on the doctor’s diagnosis and any treatment plans that may be in place.

Unemployment Compensation

Those receiving unemployment compensation lost their job after being unemployed and are allowed a portion of their previous earnings to help cover expenses until they can get a job. These funds are drastically reduced and depending on how much someone receives can determine how much monthly SNAP benefits they will receive.

Enrolled in School

If an applicant is taking classes at least part-time and showing progress towards earning a degree, they may have reduced hours they need to work or have no work requirements at all. Students enrolled in a full-time schedule will not be required to work for SNAP.

Rehab

One of the best ways to help those trying to get rehabilitated is to offer them enough SNAP benefits to help them through this process. These applicants must show proof of enrollment and later completion during the program.

Caregiver

In some situations, a person cannot work because they are a full-time caregiver for a dependent child, parent, or other family member. In these cases, they cannot generate an income, and the work requirement will be waived.
 

Moving Forward With SNAP

In some cases, applicants can receive SNAP benefits without working, so those considering applying should still move forward with the application. You may not receive the full monthly benefits but could be approved for partial benefits without working.

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