Your SNAP Benefits During the Government Shutdown and The Changes Ahead

Updated October 13, 2025

We’ve gathered key information and resources to help you understand how the government shutdown and recent federal policy changes may affect your SNAP benefits. The official documents are long and detailed, so below is a clear summary of what matters most for your household.

SNAP and the Government Shutdown

Source: mRelief Guide: What the Government Shutdown Means for SNAP

Summary: 

• Your EBT card should be refilled as usual: If you currently receive SNAP, your benefits for October 2025 should already be available. You can use your EBT card at any authorized SNAP retailer — including the farmers markets you usually shop at.
• New applications may take longer: If you are applying for SNAP for the first time, you may experience some processing delays because state offices could have fewer staff during the shutdown.
• As of October 21, 2025- Texas, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and New York have warned they cannot fund the program if the shutdown continues.

Our recommendations: 

• Plan your shopping and meals ahead of time. Consider using your SNAP at your nearby farmers market with a Double Up Food Bucks or other incentive program to stretch your SNAP dollars.
• Check your balance and any notices you may have in your state SNAP portal.

New SNAP & Medicaid Work Requirements under the H.R.1

Source: Legal Action Center SNAP & Medicaid Work Requirements Comparison

Recent changes in federal law (H.R. 1) have expanded work and reporting rules for adults receiving SNAP and Medicaid.

• More people are affected with different state variations: Work requirements now apply to more age groups and some caregivers who were previously exempt. However, changes vary by state so please check with your Medicaid or SNAP office.
  
• Regular reporting is required: Many adults must complete at least 80 hours per month of work, training, or service — and report this regularly to their state agency.
  
• Missing paperwork can lead to benefit cuts: Many people lose benefits not because they’re ineligible, but because they miss deadlines or reporting steps.

Recommendations: 

• Check if your age or caregiving situation means you now have to meet work rules.
• Use a calendar or phone reminders to keep track of reporting and recertification dates.
• Save copies of anything you submit, and write down who you speak with and when.
• If you’re exempt (due to disability, caregiving, etc.), make sure your caseworker has your paperwork.

Changes to ABAWD Exemptions for SNAP recipients 

Source: USDA ABAWD Exemptions Memo (2025)

Major changes are now in effect for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs). The following rules are already in effect. States have until November 1, 2025, to fully update their systems. The effect may be delayed by the government shutdown, so please check with your local SNAP office or caseworker. 

• Age expansion: The ABAWD time limit now applies to ages 18–64 (previously up to 54).
• Child exception narrowed: You’re exempt only if you care for a child under 14 (previously under 18).
• Some exemptions removed: Exemptions for veterans, people experiencing homelessness, and former foster youth have been eliminated.
• New tribal exemptions: New exemptions are available for “Indian,” “Urban Indian,” and “California Indian” individuals (verification is required).

Recommendations: 

• Check if these new age or caregiving rules affect your household.
• If you previously relied on an exemption, contact your caseworker to find out what applies now.
• Keep an eye on your mail or online portal for official notices from your state.

Other Sources:

Helena Bottemiller Evich’s SNAP November benefit updates by state