PA Specialist Corner: Changes to SNAP (Food Stamps)
Starting September 1st, the federal government is establishing work requirements for people who get support through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps. While these rules are already taking effect, the federal government is still working on providing guidance on these changes. Find more information about the changes to SNAP here:
SNAP Work Requirements on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) website.
SNAP Work Rules on Oregon’s Department of Human Services (ODHS) website.
Who is impacted by the changes to SNAP?
The work rules are for Able-bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD), and apply to adults who do not have a child under 18 receiving SNAP benefits with them.
What do people impacted by these changes have to do?
If you’re an ABAWD, you’re required to do 80 hours of work activities each month. These activities include paid employment, volunteering, and employment training. If you don't complete the 80 hours each month, your SNAP benefits will be time limited, meaning you can only get food benefits for 3 months in a 3-year period.
How will customers of Community Pathways be impacted?
Many customers with developmental disabilities (DD) are wondering how these work rules will affect them. ODDS has been tracking these changes and, so far, it appears that customers of DD services, which includes our customers, who receive:
SSI or SSDI benefits, or OSIP-M Medicaid, will be exempted from the work requirement.
MAGI Medicaid could be impacted.
If you are not sure what type of Medicaid you have, contact your Personal Agent (PA), and they can check with one of the Medicaid Assisters at Community Pathways.
If you are impacted by these changes, you will get a letter from ODHS. It's important to follow the instructions on the letter and respond if you think you qualify for an exemption. The letter will outline the reasons you might qualify for an exemption. If you receive a letter and need help responding, contact your provider or your PA.
If you are wondering how working could affect your other benefits like Social Security or Medicaid, your PA can refer you to a Benefits planner, who can give you individualized advice.
- Christine Xthona, PA Specialist at Community Pathways