Oregon encourages residents to apply for SNAP benefits before the holidays

Bend, Ore. (KTVZ) --- 3The Oregon Department of Human Services, based in Salem, Ore., is encouraging state residents who are not currently receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits to apply now ahead of the holiday season. The agency noted today that individuals who previously lost benefits may also be eligible again.

SNAP provides monthly food benefits to help eligible households buy groceries, though processing times vary and benefits are not guaranteed. Department officials noted that seasonal employment during the holidays can help individuals meet federal work or activity rules or regain lost benefits.

Under federal rules, certain adults ages 18 through 64 must complete at least 80 hours of work or qualifying activities each month to continue receiving SNAP benefits, unless they qualify for an exemption. Seasonal jobs at retail businesses, Halloween stores, restaurants, warehouses and Christmas tree farms can count toward these monthly hour requirements.

Households must report income changes as required under SNAP reporting rules so benefits can be calculated accurately. Jessica Amaya Hoffman serves as the ODHS interim Oregon Eligibility Partnership Director. “Seasonal employment can be an opportunity to earn extra income while also helping people meet SNAP work or activity rules,” Hoffman said. “If you've started a new job, picked up additional hours or are planning to work during the holidays, contact us. We can help you understand how your work and income affect your SNAP benefits and what steps you may need to take.”

People who have already lost SNAP benefits because they did not meet work or activity rules may be able to regain eligibility through employment or other qualifying activities. Reapplying for benefits and demonstrating that requirements are met may be necessary. The ODHS ABAWD Team provides assistance regarding work rules and exemptions and can be reached by phone at 833-947-1694 or online at oregon.gov/snapworkrules.

Some state residents have recently received letters from the Oregon Health Authority regarding upcoming work or activity rules for the Oregon Health Plan, which is the state's Medicaid program. Individuals who qualify for an exemption from SNAP work rules are automatically exempt from Oregon Health Plan work rules. ODHS also urges benefit recipients to keep their mailing addresses up to date to ensure they receive critical notices about deadlines or required actions. Immigrants with questions regarding SNAP food benefits and the public charge rule may contact the Oregon Law Center's Public Benefits Hotline at 800-520-5292.

New federal work or activity rules for the Oregon Health Plan are scheduled to begin in January 2027. The agency is hosting a virtual media availability today from 2:30 p.m. to 2:50 p.m. to answer questions regarding SNAP applications and seasonal employment.