COLUMBUS, Ohio — Thousands more Ohioans receiving food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will face expanded work requirements starting in 2026 under changes included in federal legislation passed last year.
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) has confirmed that the new rules, effective Feb. 1, 2026, will require certain SNAP recipients to work, volunteer, or participate in approved training for at least 80 hours per month to continue receiving benefits beyond a limited period.
The changes expand the Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) work requirements, which previously applied mainly to adults ages 18-54 without young children. Federal law now eliminates several prior exemptions.
The expanded requirements will apply to able-bodied adults ages 18-64 who do not have a child under age 14 in the household and do not qualify for other exemptions, such as disability. The groups newly subject to the rules include:
- Adults ages 55-64
- Parents or caregivers with children ages 14-18
- Veterans
- Individuals experiencing homelessness
- Youth aging out of the foster care system
Recipients subject to the rules must comply starting March 1, 2026. Those who do not meet the 80-hour monthly requirement may have benefits limited to three months in any three-year period.
ODJFS has stated that it is working to notify affected households and is promoting its SNAP Employment and Training (SNAP E&T) program, which provides job training, education, career counseling, and support for barriers such as transportation or childcare.
The changes are part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R. 1), signed into law last summer, which removed exemptions for veterans, homeless individuals, and former foster youth as part of an effort to encourage workforce participation.
For more information, Ohio residents can contact their local county job and family services office or visit the ODJFS website.