Starting January 1, 2025, New Mexico will implement new work rules for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
These changes are targeted at able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) and are part of a federal initiative to promote employment and reduce dependency on food assistance.
If you’re a SNAP recipient in New Mexico, this guide will help you understand the changes, determine whether they apply to you, and prepare for the upcoming requirements.
Overview
Key Details
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | January 1, 2025 |
| Affected Group | ABAWDs aged 18–54 in specific counties and pueblos |
| Work Requirement | 80 hours/month of work, volunteer activity, or training |
| Exemptions | Seniors, pregnant women, caregivers, and disabled individuals |
| Non-Compliance Penalty | Benefits limited to 3 months in 36 months without meeting the requirement |
What Are the New Work Requirements?
Under the new rules, ABAWDs must engage in at least 80 hours of qualifying activity per month. Qualifying activities include:
- Employment: Paid work, regardless of hours or job type.
- Volunteer Work: Unpaid work for a nonprofit or similar organization.
- SNAP Employment and Training (E&T) Program: Participation in approved training, apprenticeships, job searches, or internships provided by SNAP in New Mexico.
These activities can be combined to meet the requirement. For instance, you could work part-time for 40 hours and volunteer for another 40 hours to fulfill the monthly obligation.
Who Are ABAWDs?
ABAWDs are adults aged 18 to 54 who:
- Do not have dependents.
- Are physically capable of working.
In New Mexico, ABAWDs in counties like Bernalillo, Santa Fe, Eddy, and Los Alamos, as well as pueblos such as San Ildefonso and Laguna, are required to meet these new federal rules.
Who Is Exempt?
Certain groups are exempt from the new work requirements, including:
- Individuals over the age of 60.
- Pregnant women.
- Caregivers for dependents.
- People with disabilities or those unable to work due to medical conditions.
If you think you qualify for an exemption, reach out to your local SNAP office with any necessary documentation to ensure uninterrupted benefits.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to meet the 80-hour monthly requirement can result in:
- Three-Month Limit: Benefits are limited to three months in a 36-month period.
- Loss of Benefits: After the three-month period, benefits are paused until compliance or exemption is confirmed.
How to Prepare
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
- Check your age, household, and location to see if the rules apply to you.
- If you think you qualify for an exemption, verify it with your SNAP office.
Step 2: Find Work or Volunteer Opportunities
- Look for paid work, even part-time or temporary.
- Explore volunteer roles at nonprofits or community organizations.
Step 3: Enroll in the SNAP E&T Program
The SNAP E&T program in New Mexico offers resources like:
- Job Training: Skill-building workshops and job search assistance.
- Work Experience: Internships and apprenticeships to boost employability.
- On-the-Job Training: Hands-on experience to prepare you for the workforce.
Visit the New Mexico SNAP E&T Program page to learn more about opportunities and how to enroll.
These changes aim to help recipients gain self-sufficiency by building skills and fostering employment opportunities.
New work rules may feel like a challenge, but with the right preparation and resources, you can meet the requirements and continue to receive support.
Whether through work, volunteering, or training, staying proactive will help you navigate the changes smoothly.
