The changes will take effect in 2026. The changes include stricter eligibility verification, expanded work requirements, revised benefit levels, and new purchasing limitations.
Significant SNAP policy changes scheduled for 2026 are expected to affect millions of households nationwide. Housing providers should understand how these updates may impact residents and onsite compliance obligations.
Thank you CMS Contract Management Services for explaining what’s to come for those in the affordable housing communities:
– Tighter Eligibility Check: States will face increased scrutiny over SNAP eligibility determinations and benefit calculations. Enhanced income verification, additional documentation requests, and stricter oversight will be required. States with elevated payment error rates may be required to cover a portion of SNAP benefit costs, incentivizing improved accuracy.
– Expanded Work Requirements: Work requirements will apply to non-disabled adults ages 18–64, expanding beyond the previous upper limit of 54. Exemptions will be narrower, primarily for adults caring for children under age 14. More SNAP recipients will be required to meet employment or training standards to maintain benefits.
– Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA): SNAP benefit amounts will increase modestly to reflect inflation and rising food costs. The maximum monthly benefit for a family of four will increase to $994.
– Restrictions on Purchases: Eighteen states will implement new restrictions on SNAP purchases, limiting certain junk food items in an effort to encourage healthier nutrition choices among recipients.
– Changes in Eligibility for Immigrants: Beginning in 2026, lawful permanent residents must have lived in the United States for at least five years to qualify for SNAP. Refugees and asylum seekers will no longer qualify under revised eligibility standards, reducing overall program access.