Starting January 1, 2025, New Mexico will implement new SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) work requirements for certain recipients.
If you’re an able-bodied adult without dependents (ABAWD), these changes could impact your benefits.
This guide covers who is affected, how to meet the new requirements, and what to do if you qualify for an exemption, ensuring you continue receiving food assistance without interruption.
Overview of New SNAP Work Rules in New Mexico
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | January 1, 2025 |
| Who’s Affected? | ABAWDs (Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents) aged 18-54 |
| Work Requirement | 80+ hours per month of work, volunteering, or training |
| Exemptions | Seniors, disabled individuals, pregnant women, caregivers |
| Consequence of Non-Compliance | SNAP benefits limited to 3 months in a 36-month period |
| Support Programs | SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) program |
| Official Resource | New Mexico SNAP Program |
These work requirements are part of a federal initiative aimed at promoting self-sufficiency among SNAP recipients.
Who Will Be Affected by the New Rules?
The new SNAP work rules apply only to ABAWDs—adults aged 18-54 who:
✔ Do not have dependents (children or dependents in their household).
✔ Are physically able to work.
✔ Live in counties that must follow federal work requirements.
📍 Counties Affected in New Mexico:
- Bernalillo
- Santa Fe
- Eddy
- Los Alamos
📍 Affected Tribal Pueblos:
- San Ildefonso
- Pojoaque
- Santa Clara
- Laguna
What Are the New Work Requirements?
Under the new SNAP rules, ABAWDs in New Mexico must complete at least 80 hours per month in one of the following:
✔ Employment – Any part-time or full-time paid job.
✔ Volunteer Work – Working unpaid at a nonprofit or community service organization.
✔ SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) Program – A government program that helps SNAP recipients gain job skills, find work, and receive training.
How to Meet the 80-Hour Requirement
You can combine activities to reach 80 hours per month.
Example:
- Work 40 hours per month + Volunteer 40 hours per month = 80-hour requirement met ✅
- Job Training 30 hours per month + Part-time job 50 hours per month = Requirement met ✅
📌 Need help? Visit the New Mexico SNAP E&T Program to find training programs and job opportunities.
Who Is Exempt from the New Work Rules?
Some SNAP recipients do not have to meet the work requirements. You may be exempt if you:
✔ Are disabled or have a medical condition preventing you from working.
✔ Are over 60 years old.
✔ Are pregnant.
✔ Have a dependent child living in your household.
✔ Are mentally or physically unfit for employment (determined by a doctor).
📌 How to claim an exemption: Contact your local SNAP office and provide any necessary medical or household documentation.
What Happens If You Don’t Meet the Work Requirement?
If you fail to meet the 80-hour work requirement, you could lose your SNAP benefits.
🔴 Consequences of Non-Compliance:
- You can only receive benefits for 3 months in a 36-month (3-year) period.
- After 3 months, your SNAP benefits stop until you meet the work requirements or qualify for an exemption.
🔹 Good News: You can reapply for SNAP benefits once you meet the requirements again.
How to Prepare for the New SNAP Work Rules
If you’re an ABAWD affected by these changes, take these steps to ensure you don’t lose your benefits:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
✔ Confirm if you fall under the new work rules based on your age, household status, and county of residence.
✔ If you think you qualify for an exemption, contact your local SNAP office.
Step 2: Find Work or Volunteer Opportunities
✔ Search for a job – Any form of paid employment counts toward the requirement.
✔ Volunteer – Nonprofits and community organizations offer volunteer positions that qualify.
Step 3: Enroll in the SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) Program
New Mexico’s SNAP E&T program helps you gain skills, job training, and work experience.
📌 The program offers:
✔ Job search assistance – Helps you find part-time or full-time work.
✔ Training & skill-building – Learn new skills for better job opportunities.
✔ Internships & apprenticeships – Gain real-world work experience.
📍 Where to enroll? Visit the New Mexico SNAP E&T Program for details on programs in your area.
Stay Prepared & Keep Your Benefits
✔ New Mexico SNAP work rules start January 1, 2025.
✔ If you’re an ABAWD (18-54 with no dependents), you must work, volunteer, or train for 80+ hours/month.
✔ If you don’t meet the requirement, benefits will be limited to 3 months in a 3-year period.
✔ Exemptions exist for seniors, disabled individuals, pregnant women, and caregivers.
✔ SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) programs can help you meet work requirements.
By planning ahead and taking action now, you can ensure uninterrupted SNAP benefits while working toward financial stability.
📌 Need help? Contact your local SNAP office or visit the New Mexico SNAP E&T Program for work and training opportunities.
