NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The Tennessee Department of Human Services has announced updates to SNAP work requirements for AbleBodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) following the passage of HR 1 in July 2025.
The updated ABAWD work rules will apply if adults:
- Are between 18 and under 65 years old;
- Do not have a disability; and
- Do not live with children under 14.
ABAWD customers may only receive SNAP benefits for three months in a three-year period unless they:
- Work, volunteer, or participate in a job training program at least 20 hours a week (80 hours a month).
Some will be excluded from these work requirements and may still receive the benefits if they are:
- Under the age of 18
- Are 65 years of age or older
- Are pregnant
- Work, volunteer, or participate in a job training program at least 80 hours a month
- Live with a child under 14
- Care for someone who is sick or disabled
- Get disability benefits like Social Security, SSI, or VA
- Have a health problem or temporary disability that keeps them from working
- Enrolled in school at least half-time
- In a drug or alcohol treatment program
- Receive unemployment benefits
Customers who believe they qualify for an exemption are encouraged to upload their verification documents via the One DHS Customer Portal no later than October 31, 2025.
This is a story I immediately went home and showed my boys - young athletes with big dreams. The Vanderbilt football team's success has stolen the spotlight - what I love about Steve Layman's story is he reveals the individual hardships it took to get there. As Clark Lea says, "we all have scuff marks." This team proves perseverance pays off!
- Carrie Sharp
