New SNAP Work Rules in 2025 Coming to New Mexico: New Mexico has approved new work rules for SNAP which are going to be implemented in the state from 1st January 2025. There are thousands of individuals in the country who are depending on Supplemental nutrition assistance program- SNAP Monthly payments. But now individuals in New Mexico have to check the latest work rules which has been revised by the state will be implemented from January 2025. So you need to check them and manage your eligibility according to the new work rules to get the upcoming payments in 2025.
New work rules in New Mexico from 2025
Beginning January 1, 2025, new work requirements will be implemented for certain Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients across New Mexico. The updated rules, targeting able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWD) aged 18-54 in designated areas, will require recipients to meet specific federal work guidelines to continue receiving benefits beyond a three-month period. Notices to affected individuals will be sent by the Health Care Authority (HCA) starting November 12, 2024. The state’s Health Care Authority (HCA) will notify those affected starting November 12, 2024. These changes aim to align state policies with federal requirements while offering support through employment and training programs.
What Are the New Rules
Starting in January 2025, ABAWD SNAP recipients must meet one of the following criteria each month to maintain their benefits:
- Work at least 80 hours per month: This can include paid employment, volunteer work, or work done in exchange for something other than money.
- Participate in a work program for 80 hours per month: The state’s SNAP Employment and Training (E&T) program offers services like job training, internships, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training opportunities.
- Engage in educational or training activities: Pre-apprenticeships or other approved learning activities also qualify.
- Combine work and training hours: Any combination of the above activities totaling 80 hours per month will meet the requirement.
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Who is ABAWD
ABAWD stands for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents. In this situation, it refers to people who are 18 to 54 years old, physically able to work and do not have children or other dependents to care for. These individuals are required to meet certain work rules to keep receiving SNAP benefits for more than three months. The rules aim to encourage them to work, volunteer, or join job training programs. However, some people, like those with disabilities or who are pregnant, may be exempt from these requirements.
How Will These Changes Impact SNAP Recipients
For those who meet the requirements: The changes allow continued access to SNAP benefits, while also offering opportunities for job training and skill development through the SNAP Employment and Training program.
For those unable to meet the requirements: Individuals who cannot fulfill the 80-hour monthly work or training obligation may lose their SNAP benefits after three months. This may disproportionately affect people in areas with fewer job or training opportunities.
What is Changing from Current Rules
Under the current system, ABAWD individuals can only receive SNAP benefits for up to three months in a three-year period if they do not meet work requirements. The new rules allow recipients to continue receiving benefits beyond this limit, provided they fulfill the 80-hour monthly work or training requirement.
This change represents a shift toward encouraging consistent work participation or skill-building activities for ABAWD recipients.
Who Will Not Be Affected
The changes will not affect SNAP recipients who are exempt from the ABAWD rules.
Exemptions include individuals who are disabled, pregnant, or responsible for children or other dependents.
People who live in areas outside the designated counties and pueblos are also not required to follow the new work rules.
Additionally, anyone who qualifies for other federal exemptions, such as those in rehabilitation programs, will not be impacted. These groups will continue to receive benefits under the current rules without needing to meet work or training requirements.
