New Federal Guidelines: Smart And Efficient Ways To Maximize Your SNAP Benefits

Allegheny County officials announced that thousands of residents might lose federal food assistance starting this December due to updated requirements under President Donald Trump’s tax law. Those enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) must now navigate a multi-step process to demonstrate compliance with new work mandates or qualify for an exemption. Failure to meet these criteria could result in benefits being limited to three months over a three-year period, with the new rules implemented on September 1. Key requirements include working 20 hours weekly or 80 hours monthly and applying to individuals aged 18-54 without children under 18, and 18-65 without children under 14, effective November 1. Exemptions are in place for certain health conditions and caregiving. Approximately 13,500 residents may be affected, raising concerns about vulnerable groups potentially losing assistance due to overlooked paperwork. The county is enhancing outreach to assist residents in fulfilling these obligations.