A new 36-month ABAWD clock begins September 1, 2026. Anyone who closed their case due to ABAWD rules in the last 36 months will receive a notification about the clock reset, allowing ABAWDs to potentially be eligible for 3 months of SNAP benefits during the next 36 months. They must reapply for benefits or be added by a mandatory member of the household on a current SNAP case for their 3 months of benefit. Click here for additional information.

New federal laws affect Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in Rhode Island and you may need to meet new federal work requirements to receive SNAP. New federal ABAWD work requirements may apply to you if you are age 18-64 years and 11 months, do not have children under the age of 14 and are able to work but not working at least 80 hours a month.

As part of this requirement, you may need to enroll in a training program, work part-time, volunteer or attend school or a combination of these to continue to receive benefits.

Contact RI DHS at 1-855-697-4347 with questions.