SNAP › Work requirements
SNAP work requirements, made simple.
Sometimes, getting help with groceries means you have to show that you are working, volunteering, or going to school. This is called a work requirement. If it sounds confusing, or you don’t know if it applies to you, we got you.
At a glance
These rules don’t apply to everyone!
Let’s find out if they apply to you.
How they work
To keep getting SNAP (also known as food stamps or EBT), the government asks some adults to spend a certain amount of time working, taking a job training class, or doing community service each month. If you don’t meet these rules and don’t have an exemption, you might only get SNAP for a short time before it pauses.
Read more below or reach out to us to see how Fabric can help.
These rules don’t apply to everyone
These rules mainly apply to adults between 18 and 64 years old who do not have young children living with them and who are able to work. But other groups are safe from work requirements, too. Fabric Health will help you find out if you qualify!
See everyone who’s exemptAlways free
We do the paperwork. You stay covered.
You shouldn’t have to become an expert in SNAP just to get the help your family deserves. That’s our job. A Fabric team member helps you apply, tracks your case, and stays with you through the end.
Find out if you qualify!Going a bit deeper
The detailed rules for SNAP work requirements
If you want the exact details on the new requirements, here is a closer look at the updated 2026 rules. (1,2)
Who’s exempt
You do NOT have to meet these work rules if you are: (1,3,4)
- Age 65 or older
- Age 17 or younger
- Working 30+ hours a week, or earning at least $217.50 a week
- Pregnant
- Unable to work because of a physical or mental health condition
- Getting unemployment benefits
- Living with a child age 13 or younger
- Caring for someone who can’t care for themselves
- A student enrolled at least half-time
- In a drug or alcohol treatment program
- American Indian or Alaska Native