HARTFORD, CT — Connecticut residents receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits may soon need to take action to maintain their food assistance under new federal work requirements that took effect as part of H.R.1, also known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” 

The federal legislation is reshaping eligibility rules for SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, affecting thousands of Connecticut households. State officials are urging recipients to review their status immediately and submit necessary documentation to avoid interruptions in benefits. 

Who Is Affected? 

The new rules impact SNAP recipients who fall into several categories. Adults between the ages of 18 and 64 may see changes to their benefits, including those living with children over the age of 14. Previously, having dependent children under 18 in the household exempted individuals from work requirements, but now families with all children age 14 or older may be subject to work requirements.  Additionally, adults between the ages of 55 and 64 had usually been exempt, but now they are not. 

SNAP rules still include several important exemptions. Individuals who are currently pregnant, or physically or mentally unable to work, do not need to meet work requirements to keep their benefits. Those caring for a person who is ill or disabled are also exempt, recognizing the vital caregiving responsibilities many Connecticut families shoulder. 

Additionally, people receiving disability benefits through programs such as Unemployment, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), or Veterans Affairs disability compensation are also still exempt from work requirements. Individuals participating in drug or alcohol treatment programs are similarly exempted as they work toward recovery. 

What Recipients Need to Do 

The Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) has established a streamlined process for residents to determine whether they need to take action. Recipients are encouraged to visit the DSS website, www.ct.gov/snap/abawd, where they can answer a series of questions to assess their status under the new regulations. 

Based on their responses, some recipients may need to provide additional documentation to maintain their SNAP benefits. This verification could include proof of pregnancy or household size, proof of a medical condition, or evidence of employment, volunteer work, or participation in educational or training programs. 

State officials have made the submission process as convenient as possible. Recipients can use their smartphones to photograph required documents and submit them through MyDSS or ConneCT, the state's online portals for social services. This digital option eliminates the need for in-person visits or mailing physical copies, making compliance easier for working families and those with transportation challenges. 

Support and Resources 

Recognizing that navigating new regulations can be confusing, the Connecticut Department of Social Services has established a dedicated helpline. Recipients with questions can call 1-855-626-6632 between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday. A TTY line is available at 1-800-842-4524 for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. 

State officials emphasize the importance of acting quickly. Delays in submitting required documentation could result in benefit reductions or termination, leaving vulnerable families without crucial food assistance. 

What SNAP Provides 

SNAP has long been a resource for thousands of Connecticut families facing food insecurity. The program helps low-income households purchase nutritious food, supporting children, seniors, people with disabilities, and working families who need assistance with their grocery costs. 

The program operates through electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards that can be used at authorized retailers throughout the state, or online, allowing recipients to buy food items for their households. 

Taking Action Now 

Connecticut officials are working to ensure a smooth transition as the new rules take effect. Community organizations, food banks, and social service agencies are also mobilizing to help residents understand the changes and complete necessary paperwork. 

For Connecticut SNAP recipients, the message is clear: don't wait to find out if these changes affect you. Visit the DSS website today, answer the eligibility questions, and submit any required documentation promptly. Taking action now can help ensure that you and your family continue to receive the food assistance you need. 

As implementation continues, state officials have pledged to monitor the impact of these changes on Connecticut families and provide ongoing support to help residents navigate the new requirements successfully. The goal is to ensure that eligible residents continue receiving benefits without interruption while complying with the updated federal guidelines.