SNAP ABAWD Time Limit Rule

The federal Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) time limit rule limits how long some adults can receive SNAP benefits if they are not working. Unemployed, non-disabled adults ages 18 to 64 in households without a child under age 14 can only receive SNAP benefits for a total of three full months in a 36-month period unless they live in an area with a waiver, meet an exemption, or meet work requirements.

The following areas have waivers that run from March 1, 2026, through February 28, 2027. During this period, the ABAWD time limit rule will not apply to individuals who reside in:

• Tuscarora Nation Reservation in Niagara County/Buffalo area
• Poospatuck (State) Reservation in Suffolk County

The current 36-month period began on October 1, 2023, and ends on September 30, 2026. A new 36-month period will begin on October 1, 2026. New York uses a “fixed statewide clock,” which means that the 36-month period has the same beginning and end dates in all counties.

How community organizations can help:

• Use our SNAP ABAWD Time Limit Checklist to determine if time limit rules apply to a SNAP participant. Help exempt individuals provide information to their SNAP office about their status.
• Provide individuals who are “unfit for work” with NYSOTDA’s medical statement form. Includes a list of medical professionals approved to sign the form.
• Ensure individuals subject to work requirements contact their SNAP office to learn how to meet requirements and enroll in qualifying activities.
• Mediate with the SNAP office on behalf of clients wrongly denied benefits under the time limit rule.
• Share the resources below with SNAP participants and service providers in your community.