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NJ SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and Able-Bodied Adults without Dependents

Release Date: May 11, 2016
Under Federal Rules, reinstated effective January 2016, New Jersey SNAP recipients who are identified as Able-Bodied Adults without Dependents (ABAWDs) have special work requirements, in addition to the general work requirements connected to NJ SNAP.

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New Jersey SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and Able-Bodied Adults without Dependents (ABAWDs)
 
Under Federal Rules, reinstated effective January 2016, New Jersey SNAP recipients who are identified as Able-Bodied Adults without Dependents (ABAWDs) have special work requirements, in addition to the general work requirements connected to NJ SNAP. 
 
An ABAWD is a person who is between the ages of 18 through 49, has no dependents and is not disabled.    A person who meets the ABAWD criteria is subject to a time limit and can only receive SNAP benefits for three months in three years if they do not meet certain special work requirements.   The One Stop Career Center in Sussex County will work with ABAWD individuals.
 
A person identified as an ABAWD must be working at least 20 hours a week; or participating in a NJ SNAP approved work program at least 20 hours per week; or participating in a NJ SNAP approved workfare program. 
 
A person may be exempt from the time limit if any of the following circumstances exist:  Under age 18 or age 50 plus; certified as physically or mentally unfit for work; living with a household member under 18 years of age or caring for an incapacitated household member; pregnant; receiving Unemployment Insurance Benefits (UIB); a regular participant in a drug or alcohol treatment and rehabilitation program; or enrolled at least half-time in an institution of higher education.
 
For more information regarding the NJ SNAP program or to apply for NJ SNAP, please utilize the online website at https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/njsnap/apply/app/ or contact the Sussex County Division of Social Services at 973-383-3600.