Big Changes to SNAP, Medicaid, and Housing Help: What You Need to Know

Heads up—major changes are coming that could impact millions of low income Americans. The leaders of four major federal agencies—the USDA, HHS, HUD, and CMS—have announced plans to start enforcing strict new work requirements across programs like SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, and housing assistance.

They say these rules will promote self-sufficiency and protect the truly needy. But critics warn that they could actually hurt people who are already working, caregiving, or facing serious health challenges—especially those who struggle with paperwork or red tape.

If you rely on any of these programs, it’s important to understand what’s happening, who’s at risk, and what you can do to protect your benefits.

What’s Changing?

These new policies will require able-bodied adults without dependents to:

• Work, volunteer, or attend job training
• For at least 20 hours per week

This isn’t just talk. The USDA has already told states it’s time to enforce these rules, and leaders say they’re ready to move forward even without new laws. That means the changes could begin very soon.

Who’s At Risk?

You could be affected if:

• You’re an adult who is not yet retirement age
• You don’t have a documented disability
• You’re not caring full-time for a young child

Even if you qualify for an exemption, you might lose your benefits if you don’t have the paperwork to prove it.

At highest risk are:

• Part-time or gig workers whose hours may not consistently meet the 20-hour requirement
• Caregivers, especially those without formal documentation.
• People with disabilities who haven’t completed the official disability benefits application process yet.
• Anyone dealing with paperwork issues, since missing a form or deadline could cost you.

Parents of children may also be impacted. Even though the policy says it only applies to able-bodied adults without dependents, there has been talk in Congress of requiring parents with children as young as seven to participate in work requirements.

What the Data Says

In Arkansas, a Medicaid work requirement in 2018 caused 18,000 people to lose coverage in just a few months. The vast majority of them either met the rules or qualified for an exemption—they just couldn’t navigate the red tape.

In Georgia, a Medicaid expansion with work requirements only reached about 5,500 people—out of 240,000 who were expected to qualify. It ended up costing over $13,000 per person just to enroll them.

That’s a lot of money for a program that didn’t show real job growth. In fact, multiple reports confirm that work requirements don’t reduce unemployment—they just reduce access to healthcare and food.

Here’s what the numbers tell us:

• 64% of adults on Medicaid are already working
• Over 80% of SNAP households with working-age adults had earnings last year
• Most people who can work, already do—they’re just trying to survive in an unstable system

Why This Matters

This isn’t about pushing lazy people into work—it’s about punishing people who can’t keep up with paperwork.

Gig workers, caregivers, people with health issues, or unstable hours could lose their benefits even if they’re doing everything right. One missed form or login problem could cost you your food, housing, or medical care.

Healthcare should make work possible—not be a reward for already working.

What You Can Do Right Now

If these changes move forward—and it looks like they will—here are steps you can take to protect yourself:

1. Apply for disability benefits

If you have a disability but haven’t applied for SSDI or SSI, now’s the time. We know it’s tough, but you can’t afford to wait any longer. Need help? Visit our sponsor Injury Claims—they only get paid if you win.

2. Find a place to volunteer

Volunteering or job training counts toward work requirements. Check out local schools, food banks, churches, or nonprofits. Have a backup plan even if you don’t need it now.

3. Watch your mail and benefit portal

If you’re affected, you’ll get notices. Don’t ignore them. Respond quickly and keep up with deadlines.

4. Gather proof of any exemptions

Doctor’s notes, caregiver letters, or anything else that shows your situation can help. Prepare now so you’re ready if and when you need it.

5. Track your hours

If you work, train, or volunteer, keep a simple log of your hours. It can be a notebook or phone app—just make it a habit.

6. Get help

Don’t do this alone. Call 211 or reach out to legal aid, nonprofits, or benefit advocates in your area. Many offer free help.

Relief Recap

We know this is overwhelming—but you’re not alone. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be. You’ve got this—and we’ve got your back.