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Title 7: SNAP Page 28 Iowa Department of Health and Human Services Employees’ Manual Chapter C: Nonfinancial Eligibility Work Registration Revised June 20, 2025 Exemptions from Work Registration When hours of work fluctuate, average the hours for a period of time that allows a reasonable estimate of the hours expected to be worked per week. Working for an in- kind benefit, such as working off rent, does not provide an exemption from work registration.  Working at self-employment and receiving net earnings at least equal to the federal minimum wage multiplied by 30 hours.  Working at self-employment for at least 30 hours per week, regardless of the amount of money earned. A statement from the person is sufficient documentation of hours of work. Home-schooling a child at least 30 hours a week is considered self-employment for the purpose of this exemption.  A migrant and seasonal farm worker who is under contract or similar agreement with an employer or crew chief to start work within 30 days.  Participating in a drug addiction or alcoholic treatment rehabilitation program. Participation can be either as a resident of the center or on an outpatient basis.  An applicant for both SSI and SNAP who filed a joint application at the Social Security office. If the person filed for SSI, but applied for SNAP separately at HHS, do not use this exemption. Instead, determine if the exemption for “physically or mentally unfit for work” applies. This exemption continues while the person is waiting for a decision about SSI eligibility. “Waiting for a decision” does not include the period of time during which a person is appealing a denial of the SSI application. If the person becomes eligible for SSI, the exemption continues as long as the person continues to be eligible for SSI. If the Social Security Administration finds that person is not eligible for SSI, the exemption ends. This includes a person who is appealing a denial. A person who is found ineligible for SSI still may be exempt from work registration under the exemption for being “physically or mentally unfit for work.” Determine if the person meets this exemption or a different exemption status within two months of notification of ineligibility for SSI.  A person enrolled at least half-time in any recognized school, training program, or institution of higher education. Students enrolled at least half-time in an institution of higher education must meet the student eligibility requirements in 7-I. This exemption continues during all school terms, vacations, and breaks when the student intends to register for at least half time for the next school term. The exemption ends when the person: • Graduates. • Is suspended. • Is expelled.