Starting January 1, 2026, there will be new work requirements that make significant changes to SNAP benefits. These new requirements will affect almost 56,000 New Mexicans. However, everyone will not be affected at the first of the year. The new rule applies the next time you apply for or renew SNAP on or after Jan. 1, 2026. Basically, due to new regulations from the federal government, adults 18 to 64 on SNAP will have to work, volunteer, or attend training for 80 hours a month to continue receiving benefits, with some exceptions. Essentially, those who receive benefits between the ages of 18 and 64, are not responsible for the care of a child under 14 and have the physical and mental ability to work will be subject to this new rule. Hours may include paid work, work in exchange for goods, or volunteer service. People affected can meet this new SNAP requirement through education, job training, or through federal, state, or local work programs.
Exceptions to SNAP Changes
• Those under the age of 18 and age 65 or older
• People receiving Supplemental Security Income or general assistance disability benefits
• People with physical or mental disabilities that prevent them from working
• Caring for a child under the age of 14, or for an incapacitated person
• People providing care for a household member with a disability
• People receiving unemployment benefits
• Someone in a drug or alcohol treatment program
• People enrolled at least part time in school, training, or higher education
• Those who are pregnant
• Residents of Luna County, Taos Pueblo, Tesuque Pueblo, Laguna Pueblo, or San Felipe Pueblo
• People who are considered Native Americans under 25 U.S.C. 1603 or 1679
SNAP Recipients Should Report Their Work Activities or Exceptions
If benefits stop, individuals can regain eligibility by meeting the 80-hour requirement for 30 consecutive days and reapplying for SNAP. If they qualify for an exception, they can report it at any time to restart benefits. There are three ways to do this reporting. First, you can report your work or exception to the new SNAP changes online at YES.NM.GOV. Click on the ‘Log In’ button, create or sign into your account, and find the option to report your work hours or request an exemption. A second option is to call 1-800-283-4465, Monday through Friday from 7AM to 6:30PM. Finally, you can report in person at a local Health Care Authority Income Support Division office. A list of those offices can be found on the HCA website.
If SNAP Changes Limit Your Access to Food the Storehouse is Here to Help
If these changes to SNAP benefits affect you and you need support with food, visit our web page titled Need Food? to learn how to get food from the Storehouse, our operating hours, days our food pantry is open, and available help.
The Storehouse has existed for nearly 50 years to help families get the food they need. We also can offer baby food and diapers as they are donated. For dog and cat food, we usually have a pet food pantry on the third Friday of every month.
If you need volunteer hours to count toward your work hours, the Storehouse can often use more helping hands. Email us at info@StorehouseNM.org to learn more and get started.
More Information & Resources
The Storehouse has seen marked increases in people needing food in the last few years, and we realize even more families may be affected by these new SNAP requirements. For more information on SNAP changes taking effect in 2026, visit HCA.NM.Gov/updates-about-federal-changes or call 1-800-283-4465.
If you need help finding a job, visit www.dws.state.nm.us. Furthermore, Yes New Mexico Connect is a service through the Yes.NM.Gov website that can also help you find resources to help you and your family. Finally, the 211 hotline and website run by United Way of North Central New Mexico is a another great way to connect to the help you need. Just dial 2-1-1 and help can be a phone call away. The phone line is open Monday-Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but closed for major holidays. The 211 Helpline website is available at all times.
As local families weather these SNAP changes, the Storehouse and these resources will be there to help.