Don't Lose Your SNAP Benefits on February 1st

The rules changed. The protections expired. Here is how we fight back.

🚨 THE URGENT CHANGE (Feb 1, 2026)

If you receive SNAP (Link) benefits in Illinois, the federal rules for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) have shifted dramatically.

The New Reality:

  • Age Limit Increased: You are now subject to work requirements up to age 64 (previously 54).

  • The 80-Hour Rule: You must report 80 hours of work per month (20 hours/week) to keep your benefits.

  • The Hidden Cuts: Protections that previously exempted Veterans, People Experiencing Homelessness, and Former Foster Youth (under 25) have expired or narrowed under the new federal provisions.

If you do not meet these requirements by Feb 1, you risk losing benefits for 3 years.

🛡️ STEP 1: CHECK FOR "SURVIVING" EXEMPTIONS

Before you panic about finding 80 hours of work, check if you are still exempt. Even with the cuts, you DO NOT need to work for benefits if you meet ONE of the following. You must report this to IDHS immediately.

  • Pregnancy: Anyone pregnant is exempt.

  • Parents/Caregivers: If you live in a household with a child under age 14 (note: this age dropped from 18).

  • Physical/Mental Limitation: If you are "medically certified" as unable to work. Tip: This can include undiagnosed barriers like chronic depression or anxiety if a medical professional signs off.

  • Students: Enrolled at least half-time in school/training.

  • Drug/Alcohol Treatment: Regular participation in a treatment program.

✅ ACTION: Use the ABE Screener Tool to confirm your exemption status today.

📝 STEP 2: REPORT YOUR HOURS (VOLUNTEERING COUNTS!)

If you are not exempt, you must report 80 hours/month. But "Work" doesn't just mean a paid job.

What Counts as "Work"?

  1. Paid Employment: Part-time or full-time.

  2. Volunteering: Unpaid work at a nonprofit, religious organization, or community group counts.

  3. Job Training: SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) programs.

  4. Workfare: State-assigned community service.

✅ ACTION:

  • Upload Proof: Use the ABE Manage My Case portal to upload pay stubs or a letter from a volunteer supervisor.

  • Do It Monthly: If your hours fluctuate, you must report it to avoid the "3-month strike" rule.

⚖️ STEP 3: APPEAL IF YOU ARE CUT OFF

If you receive a notice that your benefits are stopping, you have the right to appeal. This "pauses" the cut-off in many cases.

How to File an Appeal in Illinois:

💡 Bushra's Tip: When you appeal, state clearly: "I believe I am exempt due to [Reason]" or "I have met the work requirements and have proof."

📞 ILLINOIS RESOURCES (SAVE THESE NUMBERS)

  • Manage My Case / ABE Portal: abe.illinois.gov

    • Use this to upload docs, check status, and report changes.

  • IDHS Help Line: 1-800-843-6154

    • General questions and case status.

  • Greater Chicago Food Depository: 773-247-FOOD (3663)

    • If you lose benefits and need emergency food immediately.

  • Legal Aid: IllinoisLegalAid.org

    • Free legal help if you believe your benefits were wrongfully terminated.

Paid for by Friends of Bushra Amiwala. We do not accept corporate PAC money—we fight for you.