SNAP benefits are changing on February 1, and here’s what you need to know.
As a result of the One Big Beautiful Bill passing in 2025, the requirements to be eligible for SNAP benefits are officially coming into effect in February.
Most notably with the ‘hours worked’ number going up, and groups of people that are now affected.
Those who are deemed ‘able bodied adults’ between 18-64 no longer qualify for work exemptions.
Even if you previously were exempt, the categories below now have to meet work hour requirements:
- Adults aged 55-64, Parents whose children are all aged 14-18
- Veterans
- People experiencing homelessness
- Youth aging out of the foster care system
The work activity requirement means that a person must work at least 80 hours per month, or 20 hours per week on average.
Participation in approved education, job training, or community service programs also fulfills the work requirement.
Proof of compliance is due by March 1, 2026.
You can learn more about who is still exempt, how to report and verify your work hours, and what happens if requirements are not met at benefits.ohio.gov, or from Signal Cleveland at the link below:
New SNAP work requirements start Feb. 1. Here’s what changes
