New work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program go into effect Feb. 1, threatening benefits for hundreds of thousands of Illinoisians. Adults who do not meet the requirements can only receive SNAP benefits for up to three months in a three-year period. As of September 2025, almost two million Illinois residents were using SNAP benefits, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Two major changes to SNAPMost SNAP recipients must meet general work requirements by applying for and accepting available work, participating in SNAP Employment and Training and not voluntarily quitting or reducing work hours below 30 a week without good reason. A smaller group of SNAP recipients known as ABAWDs, or able-bodied adults without dependents, must meet further requirements if they are not exempt.