West Virginia Updates SNAP Work Requirements for Able-Bodied Adults
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (November 1, 2025) – The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS) has implemented changes to its Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Able-Bodied Adults without Dependents (ABAWD) policy, effective November 1st. these adjustments are mandated by federal legislation, H.R.1, and are designed to maintain the state’s compliance wiht national SNAP guidelines.
The revised policy impacts individuals aged 18 through 64, classifying them as ABAWD starting the month after their 18th birthday and continuing until the month they turn 65.
Significant changes include the removal of previous exemptions for veterans, individuals experiencing homelessness, and former foster youth under the age of 25. Individuals in these categories will now be required to meet ABAWD work requirements to continue receiving SNAP benefits, unless they qualify for another exemption.
The definition of a dependent has also been updated. Only dependents under the age of 14 will now qualify as an adult for exemption from ABAWD requirements. SNAP recipients caring for children aged 14 through 17 will be subject to work requirements unless another exemption applies.
A new exemption has been added for SNAP recipients who identify as Indians, Urban Indians, or California Indians, as defined by the Indian Health Care Enhancement Act.
The DoHS estimates these changes will affect approximately 36,000 SNAP recipients across the state.
Individuals with questions regarding the updated ABAWD policy are encouraged to contact the DoHS Office of Constituent Services at 1-877-716-1212.
