Thousands Lose SNAP Benefits in Oregon; How to Reapply
Oregon officials say thousands have already lost food benefits under expanded federal work requirements, while others may still qualify to keep or regain assistance.
SALEM, Ore. - Oregon Department of Human Services is urging Oregonians receiving SNAP benefits to review new federal work-rule changes after thousands of people lost food assistance in recent weeks and thousands more could be affected by the end of April.
The agency said the impacts stem from federally directed changes tied to HR1, which expanded work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). More adults are now subject to time limits and must meet certain work-related requirements to continue receiving benefits unless they qualify for an exemption.
SNAP currently helps about 757,700 people in Oregon, roughly one in six residents, according to ODHS.
Many recipients who fall under the federal Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) category can only receive SNAP for three months within a three-year period unless they meet work requirements or qualify for an exemption.
Corrected Numbers Released by ODHS
ODHS issued corrected figures this week regarding March closures and April cases at risk.
In late March, 13,399 SNAP cases closed, affecting 13,898 individual recipients, after those individuals did not meet work requirements or qualify for an exemption. Those households did not receive April SNAP benefits.
The agency also said 6,948 additional cases are at risk of closing at the end of April, affecting 6,948 individual recipients.
ODHS noted that while many affected SNAP households involve one person, not all do, which is why case totals and individual totals can differ.
Some Oregonians Kept Benefits After Contacting ODHS
The department said around 20,000 people were notified in March that their benefits were scheduled to close. Of those, approximately 6,000 people contacted ODHS and were able to either qualify for an exemption or meet work requirements, allowing them to keep benefits.
Jessica Amaya Hoffman, SNAP Director for ODHS, said rural communities may face extra barriers.
“SNAP plays a critical role in Oregon, helping 757,700 people, or one in six Oregonians, put food on the table,” Hoffman said. “In some communities, particularly in rural areas, people may not have easy access to jobs, training, transportation, or WorkSource offices, making it harder to meet work rules and increasing the risk of losing reliable access to food.”
How to Regain SNAP Benefits
ODHS emphasized that losing benefits does not always mean permanent loss of eligibility.
People who lost SNAP after using their three countable months may be able to regain benefits in several ways:
Meet work requirements by completing about 80 hours per month of approved activities such as paid employment, job searching, training programs, or volunteering. Meeting the requirement for at least 30 days may restore eligibility.
Qualify for an exemption based on circumstances such as health conditions, caregiving responsibilities, or other life situations.
Report household or living changes that could affect whether time limits apply.
Use employment and training services offered through ODHS and the Oregon Employment Department.
“If your SNAP benefits have stopped, contact us right away,” Hoffman said. “Benefits do not restart automatically, but we can review your situation and help you understand your next steps.”
Where to Get Help
ODHS encourages anyone with questions to act quickly.
SNAP Work Rules Information:
English: Oregon.gov/snapworkrules
ODHS ABAWD Team:
Call: 1-833-947-1694
Email: SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov
General SNAP Help:
Online: benefits.oregon.gov
Call: 1-800-699-9075
Cover image: edited stock photo.
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