Frequently asked questions

Expand the sections below for answers to FAQs about the changes to ABAWD rules.

ABAWDs are people who are:

Between the ages of 18 and 64;

Are considered physically and mentally able to work; and

Not living with a child under the age of 14.

Certain individuals are exempt from ABAWD rules, including those who are:

Pregnant

Disabled or receive disability benefits (Social Security, SSI or VA)

Physically or mentally unable to work

Enrolled in school, college or a training program at least half-time

Participating in a drug addiction or alcohol treatment and rehabilitation program

Receiving or have applied for unemployment benefits

Caring for someone who is sick or disabled

Already working 30 hours or more a week or earning at least $217.50 a week

Meeting the work rules for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF

Identify as an Indian, Urban Indian or California Indian

In order to maintain SNAP eligibility, ABAWDs must participate in a work activity 20 hours a week (80 hours a month). ABAWDs can only receive SNAP benefits for more than three months within a three-year period — known as the time limit — if they meet the work requirement or are otherwise exempt.

ABAWD individuals can receive SNAP benefits for a maximum of three months within a 36-month period, also known as the time limit. These months do not need to be consecutive. Once the time limit is exhausted, ABAWDs must meet the monthly work requirement to continue receiving benefits.

ABAWD individuals must participate in a work activity 20 hours a week (or an average of 80 hours a month). This can include paid work, unpaid work (volunteer), participation in Colorado Employment First, or participation in another employment and training program.

If you are working, your paystubs will verify if you are meeting this work requirement. If you are participating in Employment First, your Employment First case manager will provide verification of your hours. If you are participating in another type of employment and training program you will need to work with your case manager to provide verification of your participation.

If you are participating in unpaid work (volunteer work), you can use the ABAWD Volunteer Verification Form to report and verify your volunteer work. This is only required to be submitted one time during your SNAP certification period.

Examples of being physically or mentally unfit for employment can include but are not limited to:

Homelessness

Recently released from an institution

Individuals with disabilities

Individuals with a history of being unable to maintain employment

Domestic violence

The intent of work requirements is to promote SNAP recipients to self-sufficiency through the dignity of work.