Exciting changes are coming for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients. Thanks to recent cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), many households will notice a slight boost in their monthly SNAP benefits starting this month.
Along with this increase, a significant shift is happening regarding the age definition of able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWD) due to the Fiscal Responsibility Act.
The debt ceiling deal, which extends until 2025, raised the age limit for certain work requirements from 52 to 54 years old.
What Is the ABAWD Age Change?
Under the new rules, able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs)—those aged 18 to 54—must meet specific criteria to maintain their SNAP benefits.
This is an increase from the previous age limit of 52 years. To remain eligible for benefits, these individuals must:
- Work at least 80 hours per month, or
- Be enrolled in an education or training program.
These work requirements will stay in place until 2030.
Impact of COLA and Age Change
The COLA adjustment for 2024 means a slight increase in monthly SNAP benefits for most households, except for residents of Hawaii, who will see a reduction (but still higher than the 48 contiguous states due to regional cost differences).
Beneficiaries in Alaska, the Virgin Islands, and Guam will receive larger boosts, given the higher food costs in these areas.
While the Fiscal Responsibility Act brought about these changes, including the age rise for ABAWD time limits, it also helped suspend the debt ceiling until 2025.
This change played a pivotal role in the political shifts that led to the removal of former Republican Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
The combination of the COLA increase and the ABAWD age limit change could impact SNAP recipients in different ways.
While most will see a modest boost in their monthly benefits, those categorized as able-bodied adults without dependents aged 54 and younger will need to meet the new work or training requirements to continue receiving assistance.
FAQs
What is the new age requirement for ABAWDs under SNAP?
The age limit has been raised from 52 to 54 years.
How many hours must ABAWDs work to maintain SNAP benefits?
They must work 80 hours per month or enroll in a qualifying education or training program.
When do the new age requirements take effect?
The changes take effect immediately and will remain in place until 2030.
Will all SNAP recipients see a COLA increase?
Yes, most will see a slight increase, but adjustments vary by region, with Hawaii seeing a slight reduction.
What prompted these changes to SNAP?
The Fiscal Responsibility Act, part of the deal to suspend the debt ceiling, introduced the changes to ABAWD requirements.
