SNAP recipients who are 18 to 52 years old and don't have a child under 18 on their NA case, may need to start meeting ABAWD work requirements beginning October 01, 2023. However, many people are exempt from the requirements, including individuals residing outside of Maricopa County. A complete list of the exemptions are detailed below.
Beginning October 1, 2023, for Nutrition Assistance (NA), individuals who are 18 through 52 years of age, without minor dependents, and physically and mentally fit for work are considered ABAWDs.
Per federal requirements, ABAWDs can only get 3 months of NA benefits in a 3-year period, unless they meet the ABAWD work requirements or qualify for an exemption. ABAWDS can report they are meeting work requirements or an exemption by using the following forms:
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Career Advancement Network (SNAP CAN) has employment assistance that can help ABAWDs meet the work requirements. More information about the SNAP CAN program can be found below.
ABAWDs must meet one of the following work requirements:
ABAWDs who meet one of the following criteria do not need to participate in the work requirements to continue to receive NA benefits beyond the 3-month time limit.
ABAWDs who meet one of the following exemptions can continue to receive NA benefits beyond the 3-month time limit.
SNAP recipients who do not also receive benefits through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program are eligible to participate in the SNAP Career Advancement Network (SNAP CAN Program). The SNAP CAN Program assists participants in achieving their career goals by providing a broad range of workforce readiness services including reimbursements for eligible transportation, and other expenses related to participants.
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