New York, NY – Tens of thousands of New Yorkers who rely on SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) to afford groceries will soon face stricter federal work requirements. These changes could strip many low-income residents of their benefits as early as next spring.
The Trump administration has directed states to implement the new rules by the first week of November, a move that accelerates the original timeline by several months. State and city officials say the abrupt rollout will create confusion and hardship for recipients who depend on food assistance amid persistently high food prices.
“It is a virtually impossible timeline to meet,” said Molly Wasow Park, commissioner of the New York City Department of Social Services. “We’re doing everything we can to make sure SNAP recipients understand the changes, but many people will struggle to comply — especially those in unstable or part-time jobs.”
What’s Changing
Beginning in November, SNAP recipients will need to prove each month that they are either working, volunteering, or enrolled in an education or training program for at least 80 hours to continue receiving benefits. Those who fail to meet these standards will be limited to just three months of benefits within a three-year period.
Previously, New York, like many other states, had secured federal waivers exempting certain adults from these requirements. The new rule eliminates those exemptions early, leaving little time for local agencies to adjust.
The policy, part of a tax and spending package passed by congressional Republicans and signed by President Donald Trump in July, was promoted as a measure to combat “waste, fraud, and abuse” within federal assistance programs.
“Simply having a job isn’t enough,” Park added. “Your work has to be consistent and well-documented. For people in the gig economy or working irregular shifts, that’s an enormous challenge.”
Who Will Be Affected
New York City has 1.8 million residents enrolled in SNAP, including half a million children. Officials estimate that 240,000 people could lose their benefits under the new rules.
The group most at risk includes able-bodied adults ages 18 to 64 who are not disabled and don’t qualify for other exemptions. For the first time, the rules will also extend to groups previously exempt, such as homeless individuals, veterans, young adults leaving foster care, and parents of children aged 14 to 17.
Recipients must meet the new standards starting November 2, and those who do not comply could lose their benefits by March 2026.
“If you spring this on people at the last minute, many won’t know what to do,” said Maria Walles, a member of the advocacy group Safety Net Activists. “People living on the streets or working inconsistent hours are the least likely to even hear about the change in time.”
Cost Shifts to States and Cities
The federal overhaul also shifts part of the financial burden to state and local governments. For the first time, New York State and New York City will be required to cover 15% of SNAP benefit costs and a larger share of administrative expenses.
“These changes will undermine the foundation of SNAP and place a heavy strain on state and local budgets,” said Anthony Farmer, spokesperson for the New York Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, which administers the program.
He added that Governor Kathy Hochul remains committed to helping New Yorkers navigate the changes: “With federally funded nutrition programs under attack in Washington, the governor will continue to ensure families get the resources they need to thrive.”
Advocates Brace for Fallout
Nonprofits and food insecurity advocates warn that SNAP offices, already overburdened, will struggle to handle the increased workload. Many say the responsibility for helping recipients comply will fall to community organizations.
“SNAP administrative offices are going to be overwhelmed,” said Jerome Nathaniel, policy director at City Harvest, a food rescue nonprofit. “It’s really going to fall on local nonprofits, churches, and advocates to help people figure this out.”
Groups such as Hunger Free America and Hunger Solutions New York are ramping up efforts to help recipients understand how to document their work hours and maintain eligibility.
What About the Government Shutdown?
While the current federal government shutdown has not yet disrupted October’s benefits, New York City officials warn that a prolonged impasse in Washington could jeopardize November payments.
For now, agencies and advocacy groups are urging recipients to stay informed and report their work or volunteer hours as early as possible to avoid losing benefits under the new rules.
“This is a perfect storm: rising food costs, new federal restrictions, and an overwhelmed system,” said Nathaniel. “If we don’t move fast, thousands of New Yorkers could go hungry.”
By the Midtown Times News Desk, Published on October 14, 2025
