SNAP Time Limits

Who do SNAP time limits apply to? 

Recent changes to federal law have significantly expanded who SNAP time limits apply to. SNAP time limits apply to many adults that do not have children, know in the program as “Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents” (ABAWD). This is any person receiving SNAP benefits who: 

• Ages 18–64 without a disability and without children age 14 or younger in their SNAP household.

On October 1st, 2025, time limits apply to ABAWDs in Benton, Clackamas, Hood River, Multnomah, Washington, and Yamhill Counties.

On December 1st, 2025, time limits will apply to SNAP participants in all Oregon counties. SNAP cases will be reviewed at recertification to see if anyone on the case needs to start meeting the work requirements to keep their food benefits.

What are SNAP time limits? 

Federal rules limit SNAP benefits to three months in a three-year period for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents. If you are an ABAWD, you are limited to three months of SNAP benefits within a three year period, unless you meet the “work requirements,” or have an “exemption.”

What are the work requirements for ABAWDs? 

An Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents can receive SNAP for longer than three months if they participate in verified work activities. These activities may include one of the following: 

• Paid employment (including self-employment).
• Unpaid work activities (such as bartering or volunteering).
• Participating in a SNAP Employment and Training Program.
• A combination of work and other activities.

Do all Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents have to do the work requirements?

No. They may choose not to participate in the OED ABAWD Program and simply receive three months of SNAP. In addition, they may have a reason which prevents them from working. We call these reasons “exemptions.” Below is a list of allowable exemptions for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents. If a person believes they meet an exemption, they need to let ODHS know as soon as possible. Only ODHS can determine if a person meets an exemption. The ODHS staff will let them know if verification is required.  

Exemptions are grouped into a few categories:

The first category is exemptions that prevent the person from working and thus being able to meet the work requirements. In Oregon, a verbal statement is accepted for these: 

• Unable to work due to mental, behavioral, or physical health issues. This is one of the most common reasons to exempt a person. It is meant to be broad. There are many ways to meet this exemption. Examples may include: 
  • A person receiving disability income or accident insurance payments.
  • A person receiving wrap-around services. Wrap-around services are defined as a range of services provided by community agencies addressing a person’s needs which include medical or health issues preventing them from obtaining or maintaining employment. 
• A doctor’s statement is not required. However, they may be asked follow-up questions to help make the determination. 
• Enrolled in School at least half-time. This includes students attending: 
  • High School. 
  • College. 
  • Training Programs. 
  • Adult Basic Education, General Education Development, or English as a Second  Language classes. 
• Participating in an Alcohol or Drug Treatment Program. This may be either an in-patient or out-patient program, it cannot solely be attending Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous meetings. 
• Responsible for caring for a person who requires assistance in caring for themself. It is not necessary for them to live together. This does not include people who are getting paid to provide care.  
• A person is pregnant.

The second category of exemptions are considered equivalent to the work requirements. These work-related exemptions require verification and include the following: 

• Working 30 hours a week or earning at least $935.25 a month 
• Self-employed and earning at least $935.25 a month without business costs  and $1870.50 with business costs  
• Applied for or receiving Unemployment Benefits. This includes persons in the appeal process doing the federally required weekly activities 
• Participating in a TANF JOBS plan 
• You are working, volunteering or bartering (You will need to provide proof).

If you think you might be exempt, contact ODHS as soon as possible. ODHS needs to approve your exemption.

• By phone at 833-947-1694
  • ​Phone hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. 
  • ​Language interpreters available.
• By email at [email protected]
  • Please include in your email:
    • Your full name
    • Your SNAP case number
    • Your contact information and a good time to reach you.

For more details, visit the ODHS SNAP Time Limits Page and contact your local ODHS Office (see list below) if you have any questions about your SNAP benefits.