USDA Announces Implementation of SNAP Work Mandates Nationwide from November 1

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has announced that stricter work rules will be implemented nationwide under the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), or Food Stamp Program, starting November 1, 2025. This decision marks a major policy change for millions of Americans who have previously been using this benefit without strict work requirements during the post-pandemic “relaxation” period.

This measure specifically applies to Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs), i.e., adults who are neither caring for a child nor unable to work due to a medical reason. Simply put, this rule applies to adults between the ages of 18 and 64 who are not employed, trained, or volunteering.

What is going to change, and why now?

This decision by the USDA did not come suddenly. This policy already exists in federal law (7 U.S.C. § 2015(o)), which provides that if an eligible individual is not engaged in work or training, they can only receive SNAP benefits for three months in a 36-month period.

However, during the pandemic and economic crisis, these rules were temporarily relaxed. Now, the USDA has ended this grace period and ordered all states to fully implement it by November 1, 2025.

A USDA official said, “The pilot phase is over. Now it’s time to see the results.”
This means that a uniform policy will now apply across the United States, and those who do not meet the work standards may lose SNAP benefits after three months.

Key requirements of the new rules

Under these new rules, those who are eligible must spend at least 80 hours per month engaged in a job, training, or volunteer work. If they don’t, they’ll only be able to receive SNAP assistance for three months.

This rule applies only to adults aged 18 to 64 who don’t have dependent children. However, there are some exceptions—such as those who are medically unable to work, pregnant women, veterans, the homeless, or those caring for a dependent.

How Many People Will Be Affected

The USDA estimates that this policy will affect approximately 700,000 to 900,000 people nationwide. The number will depend on state demographics and local job opportunities.

Most of those affected by this policy are adults engaged in temporary jobs, gig work, or part-time employment. Providing proof of a regular 80 hours may prove difficult for them.

USDA’s Position: A Step Towards Self-Sufficiency

The USDA says this move isn’t meant to take away anyone’s assistance, but rather to promote self-sufficiency. An official said, “This isn’t a punishment; it’s an effort to connect with opportunity.”

The USDA believes that such work rules will encourage people to enroll in job training programs, preventing them from relying on government assistance for long periods.

Many lawmakers also support this policy, viewing it as a balance between “responsibility and opportunity.”

Opponents’ concerns: Is this policy practical?

On the other hand, many social organizations and analysts are concerned about this policy. “Most people are willing to work, but their temporary jobs or gig work make it difficult for them to prove 80 hours per month,” said Ellen Waters, an expert at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP).

She believes that this policy is unfair in rural areas where work opportunities are limited or transportation is poor. It could jeopardize the food security of those in need.

State Preparation: Some Ahead, Some Lag Behind

Because SNAP is administered at the individual state level, preparations vary.

• States like Florida and Texas are already prepared and have implemented digital work verification systems.
• States like California and Michigan have reported delays in employee training and funding.
• Rural states like Oregon are planning partial waivers because of limited work opportunities.

The USDA has also clarified that SNAP funding falls under “mandatory spending,” meaning its distribution will continue, but administrative delays may occur if the budget dispute in Congress continues.

Important Things for SNAP Recipients

If you are currently receiving SNAP benefits and fall into the ABAWD category, you need to know:

You will receive written notice before your benefits end. If you fail to comply with the work rule for three months, your assistance will be stopped.

But re-qualification is possible—
You must enroll in an approved employment or training program or regularly report volunteer or work hours.

If your health or family situation changes, you must notify your state SNAP office so you can be exempted.

State Responsibilities and Monitoring System

The USDA has directed all states to ensure the following provisions by November 1, 2025:

• Monthly work activity tracking for all eligible individuals,
• Written notification before benefits are terminated,
• And quarterly reporting of ABAWD-related benefits to the USDA.

If a state does not meet these standards, it may

A Sensitive Balance: Accountability vs. Compassion

The USDA is touting this policy as part of “modern accountability,” but the real challenge is whether it will be equitable. In urban areas where job opportunities are abundant, this plan may be successful. However, in rural and underserved areas, where jobs are limited and internet or transportation access is limited, the 80-hour limit could be a barrier.

In the words of a senior FNS advisor—

“Our goal is balance. We don’t want to take food away from anyone; we want everyone to have access to opportunity.”

Conclusion

The coming months will reveal whether this policy will truly promote self-sufficiency or make it harder for millions to access food. Programs like SNAP are the backbone of America’s social security system, and through this new policy, the government wants to test whether “compassion with accountability” is possible.

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