Adults age 55–64 w/o dependents
This age group is newly subject to SNAP work requirements. Many are close to retirement age but may still be classified as “able-bodied” under the law.
Rural Arizonans
SNAP participation is highest in rural counties that vote reliably Republican, where job availability and transportation are often limited. Tighter waiver rules (for high local unemployment rates) make it harder to waive ‘work’ requirements in these areas.
Veterans, people experiencing homelessness, former foster youth
These groups lost exemptions and must now meet work requirements unless they qualify for another documented exemption.
Parents of teenagers (ages 14–17)
Parents are no longer automatically exempt once their youngest child turns 14. Caregiving alone no longer protects eligibility.
Older adults with chronic conditions
People with health issues may still be considered able-bodied if they lack formal disability documentation, increasing the risk of losing benefits.
What Counts as ‘Work’?
Work Requirements for Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents | Arizona Department of Economic Security
- Paid work: Normal job for at least 20 hours per week;
- Volunteer work: Unpaid work (including “work-for-food” or service in exchange for goods/services);
- Self-employment: Subsistence or informal work can sometimes count depending on the kind and what documentation they have;
- Participation in a qualifying work program: Enrollment in programs like Employment & Training, Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs
Example: A 63-year-old woman volunteers at her church 20 hours per week. She is now subject to the work requirements to get her benefits. She counts the money from the collection plates and works in the kitchen to prepare meals on Sunday mornings.
If the church can verify her hours and they are documented – they probably would satisfy the ‘work’ requirement. Simply attending church services or taking part in activities without a clear volunteer work part doesn’t count.
Note: This person still needs to document and prove she’s doing the work. For example, she’ll need a written statement from her church showing she does 20 hours of work per week. She must make sure ADES gets the information. A self-attestation that she’s doing the volunteer work isn’t enough.
