Federal changes for ABAWD recipients of SNAP

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Effective January 1, 2016 federal change to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will limit the receipt of SNAP benefits to individuals who are determined to be an Able-Bodied Adult without Dependents (ABAWD) to three (3) months in a 36 month period, unless the individual is participating at least 80 hours each month in qualifying work activities. For 2016, OTDA has approved a limited jurisdictional wavier for specific areas within Erie County.  

An adult individual is exempt from ABAWD requirements if he/she meets one or more of the conditions listed below:

•             A person under 18 years of age, or 50 years of age or older.

•             An adult in a SNAP household with a  child under 18 years of age.

•             A caretaker of an incapacitated person.

•             A pregnant woman.

•             Physically or mentally unable to work 80 hours a month.

•             Participating in a drug/alcohol treatment or rehabilitation program and deemed unable to work.

•             A recipient or pending receipt of Unemployment Insurance Benefits (UIB).

•             A student enrolled in any recognized school, job skills training, or institution of higher education at least half-time and meeting the student eligibility criteria to receive SNAP.

•             An applicant for SNAP benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) jointly or in receipt of SSI.

•             Employed or self-employed and working at least 30 hours per week or receiving weekly earnings at least equal to the federal minimum wage times 30 (currently $217.50 per week).

For more information, call the SNAP Call Center at 858-7239. For additional information related to Erie County SNAP, click Here.