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2 Section 260 Change #02-2025 December 1, 2025 FOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICES CERTIFICATION ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FNS 260 ABLE-BODIED ADULTS WITHOUT DEPENDENTS (ABAWD)

General Work Registration Exemptions H.R. 1 did not amend the general work registration exemptions found at FNS Manual § 240. Individuals receiving FNS must follow general work registration requirements, unless they meet an exemption from work registration under FNS Manual § 240.03.

Category An individual is exempt from work registration requirements if… Age Younger than age 16, or age 60 or older. Those ages 60-64 may need to meet ABAWD work requirements.

Children Responsible for the care of a child under age 6 or an incapacitated person.

Work Working 30 hours or more a week or earning at least $217.50 a week.

Benefits Receiving or have applied for unemployment benefits. Individuals receiving disability benefits that qualifies for Disabled Specified Person status under FNS Manual § 212.02, e.g., SSI, SSDI, Medicaid based on disability (MA- D), and VA disability payments rated at 100%.

Ability to work Physically or mentally unfit for employment either verified by medical personnel, or VA disability benefits classified as unemployable but not 100% rated.

Education Going to school, college, or training program at least half-time.

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

Other Participating in a drug addiction or alcohol treatment and rehabilitation program.