06/02/2026
New SNAP work requirements are now in effect, and they may affect some New Yorkers who receive food assistance.
If you're between 18 and 64, don't have a medical exemption from working, and don't live with a child under 14, you may now need to work, volunteer, attend job training, or complete other approved activities for at least 80 hours a month to keep your SNAP benefits.
Check your mail and your ACCESS HRA account for any notices, appointments, or requests for documents.
You may still be exempt if you're pregnant, have a health condition that keeps you from working, are caring for a child under 6 or someone who's incapacitated, are in school or job training, are in treatment, or receive disability benefits (SSI, SSD, or VA disability). If any of these apply, contact HRA as soon as you can.
Veterans, people experiencing homelessness, and former foster youth: you used to be automatically exempt, and that's changed. Call HRA to check your status. You may still qualify based on other circumstances.
One thing to know: missing the requirements won't cut your benefits overnight. You get up to 3 months of missed requirements in any 3-year period before SNAP stops, so use that time and act now.
For more information:
- ACCESS HRA: unitedway.nyc/4ehgQGV
- NYC SNAP Work Requirements: unitedway.nyc/4nZOpkh
- Free help in your community and language: unitedway.nyc/4uKcYE6
- HRA SNAP Hotline: 718-762-7669 (Mon–Fri 8:30 AM–5 PM, Sat 11 AM–4 PM)
If you receive SNAP, review your case details now instead of waiting for your recertification date. Knowing whether these rules apply to you today protects your benefits tomorrow.