SNAP ABAWD WORK REQUIREMENTS IMPLEMENTATION STARTS ON JUNE 1, 2026
Due to changes in federal law, the DC Department of Human Services (DHS) will begin checking whether certain Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) customers need to meet new work requirements.
These new work requirements apply to Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) who do not qualify for an exemption.
Starting June 1, customers will be told if they need to meet the new work requirements when they recertify or apply for SNAP benefits.
If you’re required to meet the work requirements and don’t comply, you will only be allowed to get SNAP for three months in a 36-month period.
For more information, please visit our SNAP work requirements web page.
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Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – formerly known as "Food Stamps" – helps low-income individuals and families by providing monthly benefits to purchase food. SNAP is accepted at most grocery stores, some farmers’ markets, convenience, big box stores, and some online stores. SNAP benefits generally cannot be used to buy prepared foods, vitamins, alcohol/tobacco, and non-food items (like soap or toothpaste).
Eligibility and Monthly Benefit
Eligibility and benefit amounts are based on several factors, including income, expenses, and the number of individuals in the household.
Learn more about SNAP eligibility requirements, including general eligibility, ongoing eligibility, seniors and people with disabilities eligibility, and student eligibility.
Learn more about SNAP monthly benefit levels.
Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Cards
If you are approved for SNAP, each month your SNAP benefits will be automatically loaded onto an EBT Card. You must create a PIN that you will need to enter each time you make an eligible food purchase.
Learn more about EBT cards.
Using your SNAP Benefits
What are acceptable SNAP purchases?
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Bread and cereals
- Other foods such as snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
- Seeds and plants, produce food for the household to eat
What are restricted SNAP purchases?
- Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
- Vitamins, medicines, and supplements. If an item has a Supplement Facts label, it is considered a supplement and is not eligible for SNAP purchase.
- Live animals (except shellfish, fish removed from the water, and animals slaughtered prior to pick-up from the store).
- Prepared Foods fit for immediate consumption
- Hot foods
- Any non-food items such as:
- Pet foods
- Cleaning supplies, paper products, and other household supplies.
- Hygiene items, cosmetics
Where can I use SNAP?
SNAP is accepted at most stores that sell grocery items. You can use the SNAP Retail Locator to find a store near you that accepts SNAP benefits.
In addition to in-person stores, you can use SNAP to purchase eligible food items online for delivery to your residence from the following locations.
Amazon
Aldi via Instacart
Giant
Safeway (varies by location)
SNAP benefits cannot be used to pay for fees or delivery charges.
Employment and Training Services for SNAP Recipients
If you are approved for SNAP, you can receive employment, training, and education assistance at no cost through the:
SNAP Employment & Training Program (SNAP E&T) – If you receive SNAP benefits and do not receive TANF benefits, the SNAP E&T program can help you achieve your career goals through a broad range of services focused on your interests and needs. The program is completely voluntary, and participants receive reimbursements for eligible transportation, childcare, and other expenses related to participation. Loaner laptops are also available to eligible participants.
TANF Employment Program (TEP) – If you receive TANF in addition to SNAP benefits, the TEP program provides coaching towards education and employment goals, coaching for parents on goals they have for their child(ren) and families, and connections to service providers that can help you achieve those goals. Participant support and incentives are also provided, including for the purchase of technology needed for remote participation.
