Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs)

February 9, 1998

Attached is additional guidance on implementing the provisions of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 relating to the 15 percent exemption for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs). This guidance outlines background information on how the exemptions were determined, discusses the food stamp participation dynamics of the ABAWD population, describes the method FNS has created to help States determine the number of exemptions it can use to exempt a certain number of ABAWDs for various periods of time, and provides information on specific groups States may want to exempt. We hope that this guidance will assist the States in taking full advantage of the 15 percent exemptions.

If you have any questions pertaining to this guidance, or if you need additional assistance in any area relating to the 15 percent exemption, please contact Moira Johnston of my staff at 703-305-2515. 


Arthur T. Foley
Director
Program Development Division

Attachments

• Guidance for States on use of Discretionary Food Stamp Program Time Limit Exemptions

• Allowable per Case-Month Exemptions by State (if no Time Limit is Placed on the Exemptions)

• Allowable per Case-Month Exemptions by State (w/6-month Time Limit on the Exemptions)

• Allowable per Case-Month Exemptions by State (w/3-month Time Limit on the Exemptions)

• Estimated Number ABAWDS per 1000 FSP Cases by Category
  
  

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