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

Screening for Exemptions All FNS participants must be screened at certification and recertification for the work registration exemptions (FNS Manual § 240.03) and ABAWD exemptions (FNS Manual § 260.01) as mandated by 7 CFR § 273.24(k). • First, screen household members for an exemption from the general work registration requirements under FNS Manual § 240.03; and, • Then, sequentially, screen household members for an exemption from the ABAWD work requirements under FNS Manual § 260.01. o Do not assign countable months unless the participant has been screened and it is determined that no exemption applies. When an individual qualifies for more than one exemption, apply the exemption that will be in effect the longest. o Proper screening of participants is one of the most important aspects of implementing the FNS work requirements. The Food and Nutrition Act establishes two purposes for SNAP: (1) to alleviate hunger and malnutrition among low-income households, and (2) to assist low- income adults in obtaining employment and increasing their earnings. Comprehensive screening for exemptions serves both purposes by ensuring eligible individuals maintain food security while appropriately engaging work-ready individuals in activities that support employment and self-sufficiency.

• After screening participants for exemptions, notify participants about the program rules that apply to them, such as reporting requirements. The Consolidated Work Notice (DSS-8569) must be provided to participants. A verbal explanation of all applicable work requirements, including the general work requirements and ABAWD work requirements. Participants must be provided the Consolidated Work Notice and verbal explanation at certification, recertification, and whenever a previously exempt household member or new household member becomes subject to work requirements. • Track and assign countable months. • Apply the time limit to participants who have received FNS benefits while not meeting the ABAWD work requirements for three months in a 36-month periods. • Determine whether time-limited participants are meeting the ABAWD work requirement and if not, and not otherwise exempt, whether they have “good cause” for not meeting the ABAWD work requirement. o Good cause shall include circumstances beyond the individual's control,