For millions of people in the U.S., SNAP is essential for their lives every month because that’s how they can buy food. This is why any change in SNAP rules makes people worried. In the last months, a new federal law has significantly changed how this program works, and these changes can make many people lose their benefits, without even noticing it. So, let’s learn more about these changes.
SNAP under so much pressure
SNAP is a program that helps more than 40 million people buy food. However, it’s now going through one of the most difficult moments in years. The main reason for this situation is a new federal budget law, informally called the One Big Beautiful Bill, which changed the rules to be able to receive this aid.
So, with the new rules a small mistake, like forgetting a document, can have serious consequences.
New work rules
Let’s start with one of the most important changes: work requirements. Now, many people who were previously exempt must prove they are meeting monthly activity requirements. So, the new rules require:
- Adults between 55 and 64 years old to prove they are working, studying, or volunteering.
- Parents with children 14 years old or older to meet the same rules.
- A minimum of 80 hours per month, which is about 20 hours per week.
If someone can’t prove these hours with documents, they could lose the possibility to receive SNAP benefits.
Careful
Something that most people are concerned about is paperwork because now beneficiaries must submit proof of work or approved activities more often than before. The thing is that:
- Online systems are often overloaded.
- State offices are understaffed.
- Notices can be missed or delayed.
An Urban Institute survey found that one in eight adults lost SNAP benefits due to documentation issues, such as upload errors or missed notices. Advocates fear that these problems will increase as the new rules are enforced more strictly.
Under the new system, missing a single requirement can result in benefits being suspended for months or even up to three years.
Where you live matters
We have more things to say about the new changes. SNAP is not applied the same way in the entire country: each state must follow the federal rules, but also manage the program their way.
However, the new law limits when states can remove work requirements in areas with high unemployment levels. This has caused confusing situations, like:
- One county may still offer exemptions.
- A neighboring county may require strict proof of work.
Because of this, people in similar situations might have different rules just based on where they live. This can make things confusing and stressful for those receiving benefits.
Impact on elderly people
For the first time, people from 55 to 64 years old will have to follow the same work requirements as young adults. It’s worth noting that this group is one of the fastest-growing segments of the homeless population. Many people in this age range deal with: health problems, limited mobility, and unstable or irregular employment.
Even with these challenges, people still need to meet their monthly requirements unless they qualify for certain exceptions.Since federal officials haven’t clearly explained how to handle tricky cases, it’s easy to see why both beneficiaries and administrators feel confused.
The government
The government supports these changes arguing they aimed to:
- Reduce frauds.
- Make sure the economic aid reaches those who really need it.
- Correct errors such as duplicate records or deceased individuals.
However, experts and organizations say the data doesn’t fully support such strict changes. They also point out that many families could struggle to get enough food, especially since food banks are already very busy.
So, we all should better pay attention now because this is how we can help protect our benefits and avoid unexpected disruptions.