SNAP Benefits: Important Changes Coming in December 2025 – What You Need to Know
Mikhail Nguyen
Published Nov 26, 2025
Millions of Americans who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) should prepare for new rules that will start in December 2025.
These changes are being made by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) after a new law called the One Big Beautiful Bill Act was passed.
The main goal is to update and tighten the work requirements for some people who receive SNAP, also known as food stamps.
Who Will Be Affected by the SNAP Changes?
The new rules will mostly affect adults who are part of the "Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents" (ABAWD) category. This group includes people who:
- Are aged 18 to 64
- Do not have disabilities
- Don’t have children or other dependents in their care
These adults already had some work requirements to keep getting benefits, but the rules are about to become stricter.
What Are the New Work Requirements?
Most adults in the ABAWD group will now need to complete at least 80 hours each month of certain approved activities to keep their SNAP benefits. These activities can include:
- Working at a paid or unpaid job
- Volunteering or doing community service
- Taking part in SNAP Employment and Training programs
Who Is Not Affected by These Changes?
Some people are exempt and will not have to meet the 80-hour rule. This includes:
- People under 18 or over 64 years old
- Anyone living with a child under the age of 14
- Pregnant individuals
- People who have been certified as unable to work because of mental or physical limitations
- Caregivers looking after someone with a disability
- People who regularly attend drug or alcohol treatment programs
New Requirement: Reapplying for Benefits
The USDA has also announced that everyone may need to reapply for SNAP benefits. This is being done to help prevent fraud and make sure that only people who qualify are receiving assistance.
A USDA official stated that these steps are being taken to reduce fraud, waste, and abuse within the SNAP program.
The recertification process is one way to make sure the system runs fairly for those who truly need help.
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