In May, the East New York Times reported on the June 1 SNAP deadline and what East New York residents needed to do before benefits were cut. This is an update on who is newly affected — including groups that many assumed were still protected.
When federal SNAP work rules took effect on March 1, 2026, most people assumed certain vulnerable groups were still automatically exempt. They are not.
Under the new rules, five groups that previously had automatic exemptions now have to meet the same 80-hours-per-month work or activity requirement as everyone else:
- Veterans
- People experiencing homelessness
- Former foster youth
- Refugees
- Survivors of human trafficking
If you fall into one of these groups and have not yet documented your hours or applied for an exemption, your benefits may already be at risk.
What the Rules Require
Adults ages 18 to 64 must complete at least 80 hours of qualifying activities per month — about 20 hours per week. Qualifying activities include paid work, job training, job searching, community service, volunteering, and vocational education. You do not have to be employed, but you do have to document what you are doing and respond to any notices from your Social Services office.
You May Still Be Exempt
Even if you are in one of the newly affected groups, you may qualify for an exemption if you:
- Are physically or mentally unable to work — get your doctor to fill out a Medical Statement Form from your Social Services office
- Are caring for a child under 13 or a household member with a disability
- Are pregnant, a full-time student, or already working 80+ hours per month
- Are in a drug or alcohol treatment program
If your health makes it hard to work, getting your doctor to document it is the most important step. Call your nearest Social Services office and ask for the Medical Statement Form.
What To Do Right Now
Action Checklist
- Read every letter from Social Services immediately — deadlines are strict and the window to respond is short
- Keep a written log of your work search or volunteer hours with dates, names, and activities
- Save your documents — pay stubs, training records, employer letters, community service letters
- If you think you're exempt, call right away — do not wait for your three-month window to close
- If benefits were cut and you disagree, appeal immediately — this is called a fair hearing and time matters
Where to Get Help
Local Resources
- Legal Services NYC: 917-661-4500 (Mon–Fri, 9:30am–4pm)
- LawHelpNY.org — find a legal aid office near you
- NYC SNAP work requirements: access.nyc.gov/snap-work-requirements
- OTDA Hotline: 1-800-342-3009
Sources: LawHelpNY — SNAP Changes: How to Keep Your Benefits (updated May 26, 2026)
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