Changes in exception status during a certification period

Loss of an exception : If, during the certification period, an individual has a change in circumstances that results in the loss of an exception from the time limit, do not begin assigning countable months until after screening the individual to determine whether any other work registration exemption or ABAWD exception applies. Screening is only required at application, eligibility review or when a client reported change results in a change in work registration or ABAWD status.

Newly meeting an exemption or exception : If, during the certification period an individual subject to the time limit has a change in circumstances that results in meeting an exemption or exception, act promptly to apply the new status. Don't assign a countable month when information is not questionable. If the information is questionable, verify before allowing. Once verified, apply the new status and don't assign countable months.

Moving Between Non-Waived and Waived Areas

Note : as of February 1, 2026, Washington state has no FNS approved waived areas.

An ABAWD becomes exempt from ABAWD work requirements when they report moving to a waived area effective the month they report the move to the Department.

An ABAWD must be screened for ABAWD participation exceptions if they report a move from a waived to a non-waived area during the 36-month period.

Participation requirements apply in the first full month of benefits after the information is known to the Department.

If a client has previously used countable months during the same 36-month period, those months of non-participation still count toward the three-month limit.