CHICAGO — Thousands of Illinois residents who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are facing new federal work requirements that could affect their eligibility, according to the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS).
The changes, which stem from revised federal policy, took effect earlier this year and began impacting certain recipients on May 1, 2026. Under the new rules, some Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) who did not meet or qualify for an exemption from the expanded work requirements began losing their SNAP benefits.
State officials are encouraging affected residents to review their eligibility and take action if they believe they qualify to regain benefits.
IDHS has also been providing guidance to members of the Illinois General Assembly so they can help constituents understand the changes and navigate the updated requirements.
How recipients can regain benefits
While some recipients have already lost SNAP benefits under the new federal rules, IDHS says there are two primary ways eligible individuals can regain assistance. The first option is to satisfy the federal work requirements or qualify for an exemption. Individuals who continue to meet all other SNAP eligibility criteria can become eligible again after demonstrating they have met the work requirement for a 30-day period or by submitting documentation showing they qualify for an exemption. Once either requirement is met, recipients may reapply for benefits.
The second opportunity comes during the federal benefit reset period. ABAWD time limits reset every three years, with the next reset scheduled for Jan. 1, 2027. Eligible individuals may re-enroll in SNAP at that time without first meeting the work requirements or qualifying for an exemption, provided they meet all other program eligibility standards. However, officials note that recipients who re-enroll but do not subsequently meet the work requirements or submit documentation for an exemption may again lose benefits after receiving SNAP assistance for three months within the three-year period.
Documentation is critical
State officials caution that some recipients may lose benefits even if they are participating in qualifying work, education or training activities. Under the new federal requirements, individuals must provide documentation proving they are meeting the work requirement. Failing to submit the required paperwork could result in the loss of SNAP eligibility, even when recipients are otherwise complying with the rules. For many affected Illinois residents, this marks the first time they have been required to submit documentation demonstrating compliance with federal SNAP work requirements.
Who is considered an ABAWD?
IDHS encourages SNAP recipients who are uncertain about their status to determine whether they are classified as an Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents and whether the new requirements apply to them. Recipients can also use the state's online eligibility screener to determine whether they are already meeting the work requirement, qualify for an exemption, or need to complete and submit exemption forms. In addition to the online resources, the state has mailed notices and sent text message alerts to recipients identified as being subject to the expanded federal work requirements using the contact information on file.
Ways to meet the new requirements
Individuals subject to the new rules may satisfy the work requirement in several ways, including:
State officials say these options are designed to help recipients maintain eligibility while also connecting them with employment and workforce development opportunities.
Outreach resources available
To help communities understand the changes, IDHS has developed a communications toolkit containing educational materials that community organizations, elected officials and local partners can use to share information. The toolkit includes flyers, newsletter content, social media messaging and other outreach materials intended to ensure eligible Illinois residents understand the new requirements and know the steps necessary to maintain or restore their SNAP benefits.
Officials encourage anyone who believes they may be affected by the federal policy changes to review their eligibility as soon as possible and respond promptly to any requests for documentation. State officials say timely action can help prevent interruptions in food assistance and ensure eligible households continue receiving benefits.
Additional information about SNAP work requirements, exemptions and available employment and training resources is available through the Illinois Department of Human Services.