Beginning in 2025, new SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) work rules will go into effect in New Mexico, affecting certain recipients. If you are enrolled in this program, you may need to adjust to these new requirements in order to continue receiving benefits.
These changes, which focus on employment and training, apply only to able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) and are part of a larger federal initiative to promote self-sufficiency among SNAP recipients.
Understanding these changes and determining whether they apply to you can help you plan your work and training activities. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what to expect from the new SNAP work rules in New Mexico, who is affected, and what you can do to keep your benefits.
New SNAP Work Rules Coming to New Mexico
| Feature | Details | More Info |
|---|---|---|
| Effective Date | January 1, 2025 | |
| Affected Individuals | Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) aged 18-54 residing in certain counties | New Mexico SNAP Rules |
| Work Requirement | Minimum of 80 hours per month in employment, volunteer work, or approved training programs | |
| Exemptions | Individuals with disabilities, seniors, pregnant women, those with dependents | |
| Non-Compliance Consequence | Limits SNAP benefits to three months within a 36-month period without meeting requirements | |
| New Mexico SNAP Support | Programs and resources available to assist with job training and finding employment |
The new SNAP work requirements in New Mexico aim to help recipients gain skills and work experience while reducing their reliance on food assistance. For ABAWDs affected by these rules, meeting the requirements through work, volunteering, or training programs is critical to maintaining benefits.
If you qualify for an exemption or need assistance finding a qualifying activity, contact your local SNAP office or look into the resources available through the New Mexico SNAP E&T program.
What Are the New SNAP Work Rules in New Mexico?
The new SNAP work rules apply to certain SNAP recipients in New Mexico who are able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs). To maintain SNAP benefits for more than three months, ABAWDs will be required to work, volunteer, or participate in job training programs for at least 80 hours per month.
These changes are part of a federal push to encourage employment and reduce reliance on food assistance by requiring specific groups to work or obtain training that will help them find work.
Who Are ABAWDs?
ABAWDs are adults between the ages of 18 and 54 who have no dependents and are physically capable of working. Adults in Bernalillo, Santa Fe, Eddy, and Los Alamos counties, as well as some pueblos, fall into this category in New Mexico. These areas are not exempt from federal requirements, so residents must fulfill these new work obligations.
What Are the Work Requirements?
According to the new rules, ABAWDs in New Mexico must spend at least 80 hours per month on one of the following activities:
- Employment: Paid work at any job or employer.
- Volunteer Work: Unpaid work for a nonprofit or similar organization.
- SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) Program: New Mexico offers an Employment and Training (E&T) program through SNAP, which helps participants gain skills and find work. This includes services like job search training, apprenticeships, internships, and on-the-job training programs.
How the 80-Hour Requirement Works
The work requirement can be met by combining activities, such as working 40 hours per month and volunteering an additional 40 hours.
The primary goal is to ensure that ABAWDs actively participate in some form of work or skill-building each month in order to continue receiving benefits.
For more information on how to meet the work requirements, go to the New Mexico SNAP E&T Program.
Who Is Exempt from the New Work Rules?
Some individuals are exempt from the new SNAP work requirements. Exemptions apply to those who:
- Have a disability that prevents them from working.
- Are over the age of 60.
- Are pregnant.
- Care for a dependent child in their household.
- Are physically or mentally unfit for employment, as determined by a doctor or qualified professional.
If you believe you qualify for an exemption, contact your local SNAP office to confirm your status and submit any required documentation. This ensures you can continue receiving benefits without meeting the work requirement.
Consequences of Not Meeting the Work Requirement
For ABAWDs who do not meet the 80-hour monthly work requirement, there are penalties. Specifically:
- Three-Month Limit: If you do not comply with the work requirements, your SNAP benefits will be limited to three months within a 36-month period.
- Loss of Benefits: After the three-month period, benefits will be suspended until you either meet the work requirement or qualify for an exemption.
This rule is intended to encourage ongoing participation in the workforce, whether through employment, training, or volunteering. However, if you meet the requirements in the future, you may reapply for benefits.
Prepare for the New SNAP Work Rules
If you’re an ABAWD affected by these changes, here’s what you can do to prepare:
Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility
- Check your age, household status, and county of residence to determine if you’re affected by these new work rules.
- If you believe you might qualify for an exemption, contact your local SNAP office to verify your status and submit any needed documentation.
Step 2: Find Work or Volunteer Opportunities
- Search for Employment: You can meet the requirement with any form of paid work, whether it’s part-time, temporary, or full-time.
- Volunteer: Nonprofits and community organizations often welcome volunteers, which can help you meet the work requirement if you’re unable to find paid work immediately.
Step 3: Participate in the SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) Program
New Mexico’s SNAP E&T program offers various resources to help you fulfill the work requirements. By enrolling in SNAP E&T, you can gain access to:
- Job Training Programs: Including job search training and skill development.
- Work Experience: Real-world work opportunities through internships or apprenticeships.
- On-the-Job Training: Hands-on work experience that helps you build relevant skills.
To learn more, visit the New Mexico SNAP E&T Program page.
