Starting November 1, 2025, significant changes are coming to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Participants who are able‑bodied adults without dependents will now need to work, volunteer, or be in training for at least 80 hours per month to stay eligible. Those who do not meet the new requirements will be limited to three months of benefits within a three‑year period.The age for automatic exemption has increased from 59 to 65, and the dependency exemption is now limited to adults caring for children under 14. Previously exempt groups—such as homeless individuals, veterans, and former foster youth—are no longer automatically shielded from these rules.

These stricter regulations are expected to reduce the number of recipients by millions monthly. Meanwhile, the program’s federal funding is also under pressure due to the ongoing government shutdown, creating uncertainty and possible delays in benefit payments for many families.