SNAP Work Requirements Changes
Starting November 2, 2025, all towns in Connecticut will now have special SNAP work rules for certain adults.
If you don’t follow these work rules, your SNAP benefits (food help) might go down or stop. This article explains what you need to do.
Who has to follow these work rules?
Anyone getting SNAP who:
- Is 18 – 64 years old
- Does not live with a child under 14
- Can work (physically and mentally)
If you are in one of the groups above, you can only get SNAP benefits for 3 months out of every 36 months unless you follow the work rules or have an exemption.
What are the work rules?
Starting November 2, 2025, you must do one of the following each month to keep your SNAP benefits:
- Work at least 80 hours
- Be in a job training or work program for at least 80 hours
- Do a mix of work and training that adds up to 80 hours
- Volunteer for at least 80 hours
Do these rules apply to everyone?
No. You may not have to follow these rules if you:
- Are under 18 or 65 or older
- Live with a child under 14
- Have a physical or mental health issue
- Are pregnant
- Already the work rules for another program (like TFA)
- Work and make at least $217.50 a week
- Take care of a child younger than 6 or someone who needs help caring for themselves
- Are in a drug or alcohol treatment program
- Applied for or are getting unemployment benefits
- Go to school or a training program at least half time
How do I report work or participation in a training program?
You should report any jobs, current education, volunteer, or training programs to DSS when you apply, renew, or report a change. You can upload proof online with MyDSS. To learn more about uploading documents from your mobile phone, click Uploading proof.
For more detailed information about work requirements for SNAP please visit: Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs)
For more information on changes to DSS programs due to H.R.1, please visit: What will change with DSS benefits following the passing of federal H.R.1?