GENERAL WORK RULES FOR SNAP
ISSUE DATE: 07/2025
MFIP, DWP, MSA, GA, GRH:
No provisions.
SNAP:
Certain SNAP recipients must follow work rules to get SNAP benefits. There are 2 sets of work rules; general work rules and time-limited work rules. See 0011.24 (Time-limited SNAP Recipients) for time-limited rules. SNAP recipients who do not meet a work registration exemption must follow general work rules. See 0028.06.12 (Who Is Exempt From SNAP Work Registration), for work registration exemptions. SNAP recipients who do not meet an exemption from the time-limited work rules must follow the general work rules and are Time-limited Recipients. See 0028.06.15 (Who is Exempt from the SNAP Time-Limited Work Rules) for time-limited work rules exemptions.
All of the general work rules must be verbally explained to the SNAP unit:
- At application
- At recertification
- When a person moves into the unit and is subject to the general work rules, and
- When a recipient has a change that now makes them subject to the general work rules.
You must also give or send Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Work Rules Notice (DHS-8159) (PDF) explaining the general work rules they must follow. Save a copy of the DHS-8159 in the case file and document reviewing this information in MAXIS Case Notes.
GENERAL WORK RULES
General work must be followed beginning with the 60-day period prior to their SNAP application and anytime while receiving SNAP. The 2 general work rules are:
● | If already working 30 hours a week or more, SNAP applicants or recipients cannot quit or reduce work hours below 30 hours a week without good cause. For information about good cause reasons, see 0028.21 (Good Cause Non-Compliance - SNAP/MSA/GA/GRH). |
● | SNAP applicants or recipients must accept a job offer, unless it is not suitable for them. For information about unsuitable and suitable work see 0028.18.03 (Suitable/Unsuitable Work). |
When you learn an applicant or recipient did not meet a general work requirement you must follow these steps:
1. | Screen the person for work registration exemptions 0028.06.12 (Who Is Exempt From the SNAP General Work Rules). If an exemption is met, the person is not subject to the general work rules. Update the case appropriately and case note the exemption they meet and if verifications have been requested. Do not continue to step 2. |
2. | If a work registration exemption is not met, screen the person for good cause as outlined in 0028.21 (Good Cause Non-Compliance - SNAP/MSA/GA/GRH). You must ask the person about the situation. Do not ask the employer. Grant good cause when the client’s explanation appears reasonable. Document in case notes the conversation with the client and the good cause determination. If you are not able to determine good cause, submit a PolicyQuest. |
- If good cause is granted, review the person’s case to determine if months need to be uncounted. CASE/NOTE enough detail that describes the situation, and that good cause was granted. |
PREVIOUS REVISIONS
| Date | Notes |
|---|---|
| 05/2024 | added information about when the DHS-8159 needs to be provided and reviewed. Also added link to the new SNAP section 0028.06.15 (Who is Exempt from the SNAP Time-Limited Work Rules). |
| 02/2023 | in SNAP updates general work rules throughout |
| 12/2021 | in SNAP updates cross-reference to 0028.30.06 (Sanctions for Not Meeting SNAP Work Rules) due to section title change. |
| 11/2021 | is a new section about general work rules for SNAP. |
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