New SNAP Work Requirements Coming To New York In March 2026

Stricter eligibility rules will impact millions of SNAP recipients across the state.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Starting in March 2026, New York will begin enforcing new work requirement rules for SNAP recipients, including able-bodied adults without dependents aged 18 to 64 and parents whose youngest child is 14 to 17 years old. Veterans, homeless people, and foster youth aged 18 to 24 will no longer be exempt from the requirements.

Why it matters

The new SNAP work requirements are part of a broader effort by the Republican-controlled U.S. Congress to limit the number of Americans eligible for food assistance. This could have significant impacts on low-income families and individuals in New York who rely on SNAP benefits to put food on the table.

The details

The new rules are part of the 'One Big Beautiful Bill' passed by Congress. Under the changes, able-bodied adults without dependents aged 18 to 64 will need to meet work and reporting requirements to continue receiving SNAP benefits. Parents whose youngest child is 14 to 17 years old may also have to meet the work requirement. Additionally, veterans, homeless people, and foster youth aged 18 to 24 will no longer be exempt from the new requirements.

  • The new SNAP work requirements will go into effect on March 1, 2026.

The players

U.S. Congress

The Republican-controlled U.S. Congress passed the 'One Big Beautiful Bill' that led to the new SNAP work requirements in New York.

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The takeaway

The new SNAP work requirements in New York could have significant impacts on low-income families and individuals who rely on food assistance, potentially making it more difficult for them to access the benefits they need.