11-17-2024 12:58pm

New work requirements will impact certain SNAP customers in 2025

Chris Edwards Editor

Beginning Jan. 1, 2025, a new work requirement will take effect for some Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) customers throughout New Mexico. Those directly impacted will receive a mailed notice from the Health Care Authority (HCA) starting November 12.

“We understand that this change may be significant for some of our SNAP customers and we are committed to supporting each individual through this process,” said Niki Kozlowski, director of Income Support Division. “We are working with our federal partners to ensure that all eligible New Mexicans have access to the food benefits they need.”

These work requirements are a federal requirement which apply to people who are between the ages of 18-54, are physically able to work, do not have any dependents (such as children or other individuals they care for), live in one of the designated areas (see below), and do not qualify for any other exception. There are certain exceptions which exempt an individual from having to comply with Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWD) work requirements, visit the FAQ page for more information.

The ABAWD work requirement changes will apply to SNAP customers who currently reside in Bernalillo, Santa Fe, Eddy and Los Alamos counties. Additionally, this change will apply to those living in the following pueblos: San Ildefonso, Pojoaque, Santa Clara and Laguna.

Current SNAP customers who fall under these criteria must meet specific work requirements to receive food benefits for more than three months. To continue receiving benefits, they must:

Work a total of 80 hours per month. Work can be for pay, in trade for something other than money, or as a volunteer
Participate and comply with a work program for a total of 80 hours per month. A work program could be the state’s SNAP Employment and Training which provides several services, including job search training, work experience, work activity/work-based learning, pre-apprenticeships, apprenticeships, internships, and on the job training
Any other educational or training activities
Any combination of work and work program hours for a total of 80 hours per month

ABAWD SNAP customers should confirm that they are exempt from ABAWD work requirements by contacting the Health Care Authority by:

Reporting the exception online at YES.NM.GOV.
Calling the HCA Consolidated Customer Service Center at 1-800-283-4465, 7:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Visiting an HCA Income Support Division Office.