Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents

Who is an Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents (ABAWD)?

An ABAWD is anyone seeking or receiving SNAP benefits that:

  • Lives in King county;

  • Is between the ages of 18 and 54 (this was raised from 52 as of October 1st, 2024);

  • Is able to work and has no physical or mental disabilities that prevent them from working, and;

  • Does not have minor children in their household.

If all of these criteria apply to you, there are some additional considerations when receiving SNAP benefits.

Federal rules limit ABAWDs to only 3 months of SNAP benefits every 3 years, unless they also meet one or more of the following:

ABAWD Time Limits & Work Requirements

Exemptions to the ABAWD Requirements

In certain cases, some Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents are exempt from the ABAWD work requirements and 3-month time limit. In Washington, you are exempt from ABAWD rules if you are:

  • Under 18 or over 54

  • Living outside of King county

  • Determined to be physically or mentally unable to work an average of 20 hours a week

  • Caring for a minor child

  • A veteran who served in the United States Armed Forces or Reserves, regardless of discharge status

  • Experiencing homelessness

  • A foster care graduate (in foster care on 18th birthday) and under age 24

  • Caring for a person who is incapacitated

  • Applying for or receiving unemployment benefits

  • A student of higher education (though student requirements still apply)

  • Participating in a substance use disorder treatment or rehabilitation program

Have questions about your ABAWD status?

Call the Family Food Hotline today to learn more. A trained specialist will help you better understand your eligibility for SNAP and assist you through the application process.

Available Monday-Thursday 8:00am - 5:30pm, and Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm

Last updated: October 7, 2024