Course Overview
The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 limits CalFresh benefits for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents to three months in a 36-month period unless federal work requirements are met. For many years, statewide waivers suspended enforcement of these rules in California. With the passage of HR 1 on July 4, 2025, these waivers were rescinded and California will reinstate ABAWD time limit requirements in 2026.
Many ABAWDs face barriers that make consistent employment difficult. This course provides counties with practical guidance on applying ABAWD policy, determining exemptions and managing ongoing eligibility. Participants will build confidence in identifying individuals subject to ABAWD rules and supporting them in maintaining CalFresh benefits through work participation or qualifying exemptions.
Learning Objectives
After attending this training, participants will be able to:
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Identify individuals who are subject to ABAWD time limit rules with accuracy
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Differentiate between ABAWD requirements and CalFresh Work Registration, including all applicable exemptions
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Apply CalSAWS functions to track and manage ongoing ABAWD eligibility
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Calculate and verify the number of months used within the 36-month ABAWD period
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Evaluate household circumstances to determine, screen for and document ABAWD and CalFresh Work Registration exemptions accurately