7 CFR § 273.24(c)(2)-(6)


Individuals who are exempt from time limits are not required to comply with ABAWD work requirements and are not subject to the 3-month time limit.  


Exempt ABAWDs from time limits if they meet one of the following criteria.

  • Younger than age 18
  • Age 65 or older
  • Are unfit for work
  • Receive benefits in the same SNAP household with a child under age 14

Note: The child does not have to be related to the ABAWD but must be in the ABAWD’s SNAP household. Allow the exemption if the only child in the household would be a member of the SNAP household but is ineligible to participate because they are disqualified or ineligible.

Note: Aside from being aged 60 or older 

  • Are a member or descendant of a federally recognized, state-recognized, or terminated Native American tribe

Example: Indian, Urban Indian, California Indian more commonly referred to as Native American, Alaskan Native, Indigenous People, Tribal Member

Discretionary Exemption 

7 CFR § 273.24(g)(1)-(3)


Discretionary exemptions, approved by the SNAP Division, are granted to ABAWDs for one-month per individual during the 36 month period. 


  • Policies must be applied consistently, and
  • Without discrimination.


ABAWDs must use their 3-countable months before the exemption is granted.  


The cases are tracked in ImpaCT and over-usage may result in a fine from FNS.