GRANTS, NM – The state and federal government have updated and made more strict rules on how people are eligible to qualify for SNAP benefits. These rule changes will very specifically impact Laguna Pueblo and Cibola residents aged 1854 who receive SNAP.
Starting January 1, 2025, new federal work requirements will impact some Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients in New Mexico. These changes specifically apply to Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) aged 18-54 in some specific areas, including Cibola.
Who Is Affected?
Not every New Mexican is affected by the rules changes. The new rules apply specifically to individuals who:
• Are aged 18-54.
• Do not have dependents (children or others they care for).
• Are physically able to work.
• Reside in the following counties: Bernalillo, Santa Fe, Eddy, and Los Alamos.
• Reside in the following pueblos: San Ildefonso, Pojoaque, Santa Clara, and Laguna.
Work Requirements
To continue receiving SNAP benefits for longer than just the next three months, affected individuals must meet four federal work guidelines, which include:
1. Working 80 hours per month, either for pay, as a volunteer, or in trade for goods or services.
2. Participating in a work program such as SNAP Employment and Training (E&T), which offers services like job training, apprenticeships, internships, and on-thejob training.
3. Engaging in educational or training activities.
4. Combining work and program hours to total 80 hours per month.
Exceptions
Some individuals are exempt from these work requirements, including those who are:
• Under 18 or over 54.
• Unable to work due to a physical or mental condition.
• Pregnant.
• Responsible for a dependent under 6 years old or a disabled individual.
• Meeting work requirements for other programs like TANF.
• Enrolled in school or a training program at least half-time.
• Experiencing homelessness.
• Veterans or former foster care youth under 24.
Exempt individuals should contact the Health Care Authority (HCA) to report their status by: Calling the Customer Service Center at 1-800283-4465 (Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.).
Those who do not meet the requirements can only receive SNAP benefits for three months in a 36-month period. To regain eligibility, individuals must:
• Work 80 hours or more over 30 consecutive days.
• Participate in a work program for 80 hours within the same timeframe.
• Qualify for an exemption.
SNAP recipients who will be affected will receive a mailed notice starting November 12, 2024. For more information, visit the FAQ section at YES.NM.GOV or contact the HCA directly.
Expanded Benefits
While new work requirements are set to take effect for some SNAP recipients in 2025, another recent change highlights efforts to expand support for New Mexicans in need. Starting October 1, 2024, many SNAP customers saw significant increases in their monthly benefits, extended certification periods, and broader eligibility criteria.
In a press release, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham wrote about the importance of these updates, saying, “No New Mexican should ever have to go hungry. By expanding SNAP access and increasing benefits, we’re making sure more families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities have the support they need to live with dignity and security.”
SNAP customers aged 60 or older and those with disabilities now receive a minimum state supplement of $100 per month, up from $32. This increase benefits over 26,000 households.
The gross income limit for all SNAP customers has risen from 165 percent to 200 percent of the federal poverty level, enabling approximately 67,697 more households to qualify. For instance, a family of four earning up to $5,200 monthly may now be eligible for SNAP benefits, compared to the previous limit of $4,290.
By staying informed and proactive, Cibola residents can ensure they remain eligible for food benefits and access available support programs to meet these new requirements.