SNAP Benefits | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

SNAP Benefit Changes What to Expect in 2023 and Beyond

Published

2 weeks ago

November 19, 2023

Johan

SNAP Benefit Changes What to Expect in 2023 and Beyond. The Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, signed into law by President Joe Biden in June, introduces significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This article discusses the key modifications and their impact on SNAP beneficiaries.

Age Limit Adjustments

One of the immediate changes is the adjustment to the age limit for “able-bodied adults without dependents” (ABAWDs). Previously, individuals aged 18 to 49 were required to meet specific work or training requirements to qualify for SNAP benefits. With the new legislation, this age limit has been raised to 50 years old.

Gradual Age Increase

The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), under the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), plans a gradual increase in the ABAWD time limit age. On October 1, 2023, it will rise to 52, and by October 1, 2024, it will further increase to 54. These adjustments are temporary and will remain in effect until October 1, 2030.

Transparency and Purpose Statement

Two more changes are on the horizon. Section 314 of the Fiscal Responsibility Act introduces “Waiver Transparency,” requiring the USDA to disclose state waiver requests and approvals related to ABAWD time limits.

Additionally, the act revises SNAP’s purpose statement, emphasizing its role in helping low-income adults secure employment and increase earnings, ultimately enhancing access to nutritious food.

Exemptions for ABAWDs

The USDA has implemented stricter limitations on granting exemptions to ABAWDs from work requirements. The previous 12% discretionary exemption limit has been reduced to 8%, with no carryover of unused exemptions beyond one year.

However, exemptions are expanded to include vulnerable groups such as homeless individuals, veterans, and young adults aged 18 to 24 who have aged out of foster care. Those unable to work due to physical or mental limitations, pregnancy, or having dependents under 18 in their household remain exempt.

Timeline for SNAP Benefit Changes

The timeline for SNAP benefit changes in 2023 involves several key dates:

Cost-of-Living Adjustment: SNAP benefits are annually adjusted based on inflation. The increase for 2023 started on Oct. 1, 2022.
Social Security Adjustment: Impacts households receiving Social Security benefits, starting in January 2023.
State Legislation: Some states may provide benefits higher than the federal minimum.
Expanded Work Requirements: While work requirements are expanded, veterans and those experiencing homelessness remain exempt.

ABAWD Exemptions

Under the new SNAP regulations, individuals may be excused from work requirements if they meet the following criteria:

Working at least 30 hours a week or earning wages equal to the federal minimum wage multiplied by 30 hours.
Meeting work requirements for another program like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or unemployment compensation.
Regular participation in an alcohol or drug treatment program.
Enrolled in school or a training program at least half-time.
New exemptions added by the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 for veterans, homeless individuals, and those who were in foster care on their 18th birthday.