ABAWD

Able-Bodied Adult without Dependent

An ABAWD is an able-bodied adult without dependents who is eligible for SNAP benefits for only three months in a 36-month period unless they meet an ABAWD work requirement or qualify for an exemption. Exemptions from the ABAWD work requirement include individuals who are under 18 or over 50 years of age, physically or mentally unable to work, responsible for a dependent child, pregnant, or exempt from general SNAP work requirements. General SNAP work requirement exemptions include those caring for an incapacitated person, enrolled at least half-time in school, participating in a drug addiction or alcoholic treatment and rehabilitation program, working a minimum of 30 hours per week or earning weekly wages equal to the federal minimum wage multiplied by 30 hours, receiving unemployment compensation, complying with the work requirements of another program, responsible for a child under the age of 6, mentally or physically unfit for employment, or under 16 or over 60 years of age.

FAQ

Q: Who classifies as an ABAWD?

A: SNAP recipients, aged 18 to 49, who do not live with or are responsible for a child under age 18 and are considered physically and mentally able to work are considered Able-Bodied Adults without Dependents (ABAWDs).

Q: What are the ABAWD Time-Limit Rules?

A: ABAWDs can only receive SNAP benefits for 3 months in a 36-month period unless they meet the Time-Limit Rules or another exemption.

Q: How can ABAWDs meet the Time-Limit Rules?

A: To keep their SNAP benefits, ABAWDs must spend at least 80 hours each month (an average of 20 hours per week) doing one or more of the following: working, participating in a state-approved job program or similar activity such as Skill2Work, volunteering, or performing a combination of these activities at least 80 hours each month (an average of 20 hours per week).

Q: What should I do if I am an ABAWD?

A: Contact your local MDHS county office if you are currently doing one or more of these things or feel you might be exempt. They can provide you with further information and assistance.