"Beginning in early 2026, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program faces its most dramatic transformation in decades, with new work requirements affecting adults ages 55 to 64 who previously enjoyed exemptions. The changes stem from budget reconciliation legislation signed into law in July 2025, cutting $187 billion from SNAP through 2034 according to Congressional Budget Office estimates. For older Americans navigating retirement planning while still several years from Medicare eligibility, these shifts create unprecedented challenges in maintaining access to food assistance during a vulnerable life stage."
"The new rules expand the category of "able-bodied adults without dependents" to include individuals up to age 64, a substantial increase from the previous cutoff of 54. Adults in this expanded age range must now work, volunteer, or participate in approved job training for at least 80 hours monthly to maintain SNAP benefits beyond a three-month limit within any three-year period."
Beginning in early 2026, SNAP imposes new work requirements that extend to adults ages 55–64 who had been exempt. The July 2025 budget reconciliation law cuts $187 billion from SNAP through 2034 according to CBO estimates. Individuals up to age 64 categorized as able-bodied adults without dependents must work, volunteer, or participate in approved job training for at least 80 hours per month to keep benefits beyond a three-month limit in any three-year period. Parents whose youngest child turns 14, veterans, people experiencing homelessness, and youth aging out of foster care also lose exemptions and must document compliance. Implementation is staggered across states and localities, creating varying start dates and temporary waivers that require individuals to monitor local announcements for compliance deadlines.
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