ABAWD stands for Able Bodied Adult Without Dependents.

Application of ABAWD policy returned in Oklahoma effective July 1, 2023, after the pandemic.

Work Registration and ABAWD should be reviewed and discussed at every SNAP interview for initial certifications and re-certifications. The discussion should also take place when adding household members or when previous exempt individual no longer has the exemption.

Only one caretaker per child under the age of 6 can be exempt from work registration.

When customer refuses to register for work with the worker the next step is the supervisor contacts the customer and discusses work registration. If the client refuses the supervisor emails the SNAP mailbox at state office. Then SNAP PFR contacts the customer. If the customer still refuses to register the PFR will apply the appropriate disqualification.

The first step in discussing Work Registration and ABAWD with the customer is to discuss Work Registration requirements and explore Work Registration exemptions. ABAWD exemptions are discussed when the customer agrees to Register to Work when a Work Registration Exemption does not exist for the individual.

The individual cannot regain eligibility while receiving SNAP benefits.

ABAWD’s (individual’s that are required to meet the work rule), are required to report when their hours are reduced to less than 20 hours a week or average 80 hours a month. For absences related to illness or transportation issues, good cause may apply.

The worker should attempt to contact the client for the MCR to discuss the paystub to determine if the reduced work hours are representative going forward. Good cause should also be explored. “K” months should only begin if the individual will no longer be able to meet the 20 hours a week / avg 80 hours and no good cause reason exists.

An ABAWD (individual not meeting the work rule) can receive up to a total of 3 “K” months at any time within the 36-month period. “Y” months are received in consecutive months.