Able-Bodied Adults Without DependentsClosed Able-bodied adults between the ages of 18-54 (subject to change) without dependents (ABAWDs) are eligible for participation in SNAP for only three (3) months within a 36-month period of time without working or participating in a work or welfare program for at least 20 hours weekly, averaged monthly, unless exempt. After exhausting the initial three (3) allowable months, ABAWD individuals meeting certain criteria may qualify for three (3) additional months of participation in the 36-month period. (ABAWD)

403 Geographic Waiver

Overview

At the request of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Secretary of Agriculture may waive the Able- Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) provision for an identified group of individuals. The Secretary determines if the area meets established labor market criteria to be eligibleClosed Having met the qualifications to receive a SNAP benefit by meeting the specified nonfinancial and financial requirements of eligibility. for the waiver. HHS uses this information to request ABAWD waivers. The areas waived vary from year to year.

 

  • None

     

  • None

     

ABAWDs who reside within the geographical boundaries of the reservationClosed The geographically defined area over which an Indian Tribal Organization (ITO) exercises governmental jurisdiction as long as the area is legally recognized by the Federal or State government as being set aside for the use of Indians. and counties are not subject to ABAWD time limits.

 

Narratives must identify ABAWD individuals and if an ABAWD waiver exemption is applicable.

 

References: 7 CFR 273.7, 7 CFR 273.24, Section 6(o) Food and Nutrition Act of 2008

Effective: 11/1/2025

Policy last updated in Release 25.7.

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