In order to receive food stamps, adults who don’t have minor children must either meet work requirements or show that they can’t work due to age, disability, or for other good reasons listed in the food stamp law. Adults without minor children who can work are called “able-bodied adults without dependent children” or ABAWDs. If you are an able-bodied, childless adult, the federal welfare reform law allows you to get food stamps for only three months in a 36-month period. However, if you work at least 20 hours per week or take part in an approved work or training program, this time limit does not apply.

Certain areas waived

However, none of this will apply to you, even though you are an able-bodied and childless adult, if you live in certain areas. The federal law says that states can apply to have certain areas “waived.” That means that, if you live in a waived area, you are treated like every other food stamp applicant even though you are an able-bodied and childless adult.

The state of New Jersey has received renewed waivers for the areas listed in the chart. Some areas have an unemployment rate of 10 percent or more. Some areas are “labor surplus” areas, which means they are areas with higher than average unemployment rates. Some areas have insufficient jobs. If you are an able-bodied, childless adult and you need food stamps, check the chart before you apply to see if you live in an area that has been waived.

This article originally appeared in the September 2008 issue of Looking Out for Your Legal Rights®.