October 29, 2026 2:50 a.m. 

The Oregon Department of Human Services is encouraging Oregonians who are not currently receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits to apply now to see if they qualify. People who previously lost benefits may also be eligible again.

An ODHS release said for people already receiving SNAP, seasonal employment may offer another opportunity. That work could help someone meet federal SNAP work or activity rules or regain benefits they had previously lost.

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 employment, including jobs at Halloween stores, retail businesses, restaurants, warehouses and other employers preparing for the holidays, may help people meet these requirements.

Some Oregonians may have recently received a letter from the Oregon Health Authority about upcoming work or activity rules for the Oregon Health Plan, Oregon’s Medicaid program.

These new federal requirements are scheduled to begin in January of 2027.

People who qualify for an exemption from SNAP work or activity rules are automatically exempt from OHP work or activity rules.

Questions about SNAP food benefits can be answered by calling the Oregon Law Center’s Public Benefits Hotline at 800-520-5292.