The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, better known by its acronym SNAP, Changes will be made for 2026. From January, the criteria and work requirements will change for those who will be able to maintain food aid.
The new guidelines lead to changes Exceptions and expand the range of beneficiaries reached at national level. In New Mexicothe impact will occur gradually and will be clearly felt from 2026, although some measures have already done so Active dates in 2025.
Anyone who does not meet the new requirements will be excluded from receiving three months of SNAP benefits for the next three years.
State authorities emphasize the importance of informing and preparing Avoid suspensions of the food aid and assistance program due to administrative errors or ignorance.
SNAP Updates: How program changes affect New Mexico
Accordingly Health Care in New Mexicothe federal law with the nickname The one big, beautiful Bill, The law, passed in July this year, introduces significant changes to the work requirements of the SNAP which directly affect the residents of the state.
Therefore, as of January 1, 2026, some are 55,750 people have to work, volunteer or take part in school or vocational training at least 80 hours a month to preserve the nutritional benefits.
The rules now include healthy adults between the ages of 55 and 64 and also to parents or carers with dependents aged 14 or over, unless an exception exists. At the same time, the regulations eliminate automatic exemptions for veterans, Homeless and former foster youthwith a special exemption for Native Americans recognized by federal law. Local exemptions are also limited to areas with an unemployment rate above 10%, so they do not affect Luna County.
“These are federal requirements, not state policy“But our job is to make sure New Mexicans don’t lose their food benefits because they’re unaware of the changes,” said Niki Kozlowski, director of the health department’s income support division. The official added: “We know this can be stressful. for families who rely on SNAP. Our staff can help you determine whether you qualify for an exemption or how to report your work or volunteer hours.”
From the organization they explain that the new law does not reduce benefits immediately. The changes apply when a person first applies for SNAP or renews their case. after January 1, 2026. In most cases, the effect will begin one month after the extension or initial application expires, allowing time to adapt to the new requirements.
The Health Care in New Mexico Recommends taking concrete measures to get through the period 2025-2026 without losing food aid. Hold updated the phone and the address before the health authority is the key to receiving official notices and notifications in a timely manner.
The following is also recommended:
- Open and read all correspondence sent by the agency and respond immediately if additional information is requested.
- Keep proof of work, training, studies or volunteer work as this will 80 hours per month They can be achieved by combining various approved activities.
- In the event of a suspension of benefits, individuals may regain their eligibility by meeting the 80-hour requirement 30 consecutive days and resubmitting the application.
- If an exception occurs, it can be reported at any time to reactivate SNAP.
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