SNAP Changes in New Mexico for 2025: New Mexico will implement new work rules for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that specifically affect able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs). These changes are part of a federal initiative to promote employment and reduce dependency on food assistance by requiring certain individuals to work or participate in job training programs. If you’re an ABAWD in New Mexico, understanding these rules is crucial to ensure you continue receiving benefits. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Are the New SNAP Work Rules?
The new work rules in New Mexico apply to ABAWDs, who are adults between the ages of 18 and 54, living in select counties, and without children in their care. Starting January 1, 2025, ABAWDs must work, volunteer, or participate in a training program for at least 80 hours per month in order to maintain their SNAP benefits.
These rules aim to encourage recipients to gain skills and employment experience, reducing long-term reliance on food assistance. The changes are being implemented in specific counties, including Bernalillo, Santa Fe, Eddy, and Los Alamos, as well as certain pueblos like San Ildefonso, Pojoaque, Santa Clara, and Laguna.
Who is Affected by These Changes?
The new rules impact ABAWDs, defined as adults aged 18-54 who do not have dependents. If you’re in this category and live in one of the affected areas, you will need to meet the work requirements to continue receiving benefits. The work requirements also apply to those who are physically able to work.
Work Requirements for ABAWDs
To continue receiving SNAP benefits, ABAWDs must complete at least 80 hours of work, volunteering, or approved training activities each month. Here are the acceptable ways to fulfill the 80-hour requirement:
- Employment: Paid work at any job or employer.
- Volunteer Work: Unpaid work for a nonprofit or similar organization.
- SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) Program: Participate in New Mexico’s SNAP E&T program, which offers job training, apprenticeships, internships, and other opportunities to build job skills.
You can meet the 80-hour requirement by combining different activities. For example, working 40 hours and volunteering for another 40 hours would fulfill the monthly obligation.
Exemptions from the Work Requirement
Certain individuals are exempt from the new work rules, including:
- Individuals with disabilities that prevent them from working.
- Adults aged 60 or older.
- Pregnant individuals.
- Those who care for a dependent child or other family members.
- Those deemed unfit for work by a qualified professional.
If you think you qualify for an exemption, contact your local SNAP office to verify your status and provide necessary documentation.
Consequences of Not Meeting the Work Requirement
ABAWDs who fail to meet the 80-hour work requirement without qualifying for an exemption will face penalties. Specifically, they will be limited to receiving SNAP benefits for only three months within a 36-month period. After the three-month period, benefits will be suspended unless the individual meets the work requirement or qualifies for an exemption.
How to Prepare for the New SNAP Work Rules
If you’re an ABAWD, here’s what you can do to prepare:
- Check Your Eligibility: Determine whether the new rules apply to you based on your age, county of residence, and whether you have dependents.
- Find Work or Volunteer Opportunities: Look for paid work, volunteer positions, or training programs that count toward the 80-hour requirement.
- Enroll in SNAP E&T: Consider participating in New Mexico’s Employment & Training program to help you meet the work requirements through job training, internships, and other skills-building opportunities.
FAQs About New SNAP Work Rules
1. What happens if I don’t meet the new work requirements?
If you do not meet the 80-hour work requirement and do not qualify for an exemption, your benefits will be limited to three months within a 36-month period. After that, your benefits will be suspended until you meet the requirements or qualify for an exemption.
2. Can I meet the work requirement if I can’t find a job?
Yes, you can meet the requirement by volunteering or participating in the SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) program, even if you’re unable to find paid employment.
3. Are seniors affected by the new work requirements?
No, individuals aged 60 or older are exempt from the work requirement.
4. What should I do if I think I qualify for an exemption?
Contact your local SNAP office to confirm your exemption status and submit any necessary documentation.
5. Can I combine different activities to meet the 80-hour work requirement?
Yes, you can meet the requirement through a combination of paid work, volunteer work, and training programs to reach the total of 80 hours per month.
By understanding the new SNAP work rules and taking proactive steps, you can continue to receive benefits while working toward greater financial independence.
