Alaska residents receiving SNAP benefits should be aware of recent federal changes and how they affect the stateâs program. Hereâs the latest for December 2025.
đ SNAP Benefits Are Being Issued Normally
- After a brief processing delay in December, Alaskaâs SNAP benefits have been restored.
- Recipients can expect normal December benefit issuance.(health.alaska.gov)
đ§âđŒ Work Requirements Expanding in Alaska
- New federal rules now require Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs), ages 18â64, to meet stricter work requirements.
- Some exemptions remain, including caregivers of children under 14 and tribal members.
- Alaska has tribal/Native exemptions to reflect the stateâs demographics.(health.alaska.gov)
đ Food Purchase Rules
- Unlike some other states (Hawaiâi, Missouri, Tennessee, Virginia, North Dakota, South Carolina) that are restricting what SNAP benefits can buy, Alaska is not limiting purchases.
- However, Alaska maintains a âhot foodâ waiver, allowing SNAP recipients to buy pre-cooked meals through Dec 20, 2025, which is especially helpful during winter storms.(health.alaska.gov)
⥠Other Federal Changes Affecting Alaskans
- Utility and standard deductions are now more limited, which could reduce benefits for some households. Elderly or disabled members still receive full deductions.
- The USDA has also tightened rules for non-citizen eligibility and household income calculations.(health.alaska.gov)
đ What Alaska Is Doing Compared to Other States
| Topic | Alaska | Other States |
|---|---|---|
| Benefit Issuance | Restored, normal schedule | Mostly normal; some states delayed due to federal waivers |
| Work Requirements | Expanded ABAWD rules with tribal exemptions | Expanded or enforced in many states |
| Food Restrictions | No soda/candy bans; hot food waiver in place | 12+ states adopting bans on soda, candy, energy drinks |
| Utility Deduction | Limited for some households | Limited nationwide |
| Disaster/Hot Food Waivers | Active through Dec 20, 2025 | Varies by state |
Alaska residents on SNAP should monitor their benefits closely, ensure they meet work requirements if applicable, and take advantage of the hot food waiver before it expires.
