CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS) will implement new federally mandated changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD), effective November 1, 2025.
The updates are required under federal law H.R.1, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill, to ensure the state remains compliant with national SNAP guidelines.
Key changes include expanding the ABAWD age range to 18 through 64.
Individuals are considered ABAWD starting the month after their 18th birthday and remain ABAWD until the month they turn 65.
The new policy also removes certain previous exemptions.
Veterans, individuals experiencing homelessness, and former foster youth under age 25 must now meet ABAWD work requirements unless they qualify for another exemption.
Additionally, the definition of a dependent has been updated: only dependents under age 14 will allow adults to be exempt from ABAWD requirements.
Adults caring for youth ages 14 to 17 must meet work requirements unless otherwise exempt.
A new exemption has been added for Native American recipients.
SNAP participants identified as Indians, Urban Indians, or California Indians, as defined by the Indian Health Care Improvement Act, are excluded from ABAWD time limits.
DoHS officials estimate that approximately 36,000 SNAP recipients in West Virginia will be affected by the changes.
Residents with questions are encouraged to contact the DoHS Office of Constituent Services at 1-877-716-1212.
These updates reflect the state’s efforts to comply with federal SNAP regulations while supporting work participation among able-bodied adults.
