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Founded by the late Harry Chapin

Long Island Cares – The Harry Chapin Regional Food Bank has been on a mission to feed Long Islanders facing food insecurity and address its root causes since our founding by the late Harry Chapin in 1980.

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SNAP Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) Changes

SNAP Federal Work Requirement Changes

(Effective March 2026)

Beginning March 2026, the federal government is expanding work rules for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs). These changes will affect who can continue receiving The Supplemental Nutrition Program (SNAP) benefits and how long these benefits last.

Who Is Now Required to Meet Work Rules

Several groups who were previously exempt must now meet federal work requirements to stay eligible for SNAP, including:

  • Older adults (ages 55–64)
  • Parents of children age 14+
  • Veterans
  • Former foster youth
  • Individuals experiencing homelessness

Anyone who is not exempt and does not meet the work requirement can only receive SNAP for 3 months within a 3‑year period.

How to Meet the Work Requirement

ABAWDs can meet the requirement through several activities:

  • Paid employment
  • Approved job training program
  • Volunteer work

It Is Important for SNAP Recipients to Understand These Rules to Avoid Losing Benefits

Time Limit: If you are an ABAWD, you can only receive SNAP benefits for 3 months unless you meet the new work requirements

Can you include ABAWDS must document their hours monthly to maintain eligibility.

Please use these documents to fulfill requirements:

Job Search Activity Record (Fillable) Job Search Activity Record (Printable) Education & Training Participation Record Volunteer Participation Record

Helpful Resources

Please visit Long Island Job Board to browse open opportunities on Long Island.

Keep Your SNAP Benefits PDF SNAP ABAWDS NYS Requirements PDF English SNAP ABAWDS NYS Requirements PDF Spanish SNAP ABAWDS NYS Requirements PDF Haitian Creole Long Island Jobs - SNAP Federal Work Requirements Resources SNAP ABAWD Work Requirements Exemption Screener

For further resources, visit longislandjobs.org/snap-federal-work-requirements-resources/ or contact your County's Department of Social Service.

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