Georgia: proving volunteer hours for Medicaid and SNAP

Medicaid

Started July 1, 2023

Who it covers

Adults 19 to 64 in the state's waiver coverage, unless exempt. See the notes below.

Hours needed

80 a month of work, volunteering, school, or a work program, in any mix

When it starts

July 1, 2023. Pathways has required hours since 2023-07-01; its waiver runs through 2026-12-31. Current members see federal (H.R. 1) changes at renewal on or after 2027-01-01.

How often they check

Now: at application, yearly renewal, and within 10 days of a change. Policy groups say H.R. 1 checks become every 6 months from 2027 (not confirmed by GA).

Months they look back

Application: proof for the latest 4 weeks within the 8 weeks before applying. Renewal: the month before the renewal is sent in.

Hardship exceptions

Pathways 'good cause' up to 120 hours a year, at renewal or change only (Form 996). Which federal hardship exceptions GA will use from 2027 is not documented.

Proof of volunteer hours

A signed Standardized Work/Participation Calendar, or a signed statement on the organization's letterhead from a supervisor confirming hours (PAMMS Chart 2256.2). Send via the Customer Portal, mail, or a local DFCS office.

Notes

Did not expand Medicaid. Georgia Pathways (a Section 1115 waiver) covers some adults and already requires 80 hours a month. The federal rule also covers adults in waiver coverage like this.

Official page

Georgia Medicaid agency

SNAP

Does volunteering count?

Yes

Time limit waiver

No waiver. The time limit applies everywhere in the state. No waived areas; all Georgia counties are time-limited. Checked October 9, 2026.

How many hours

80 hours a month (20 a week average) of work, volunteering/community service, or a work program, alone or combined. Workfare hours = monthly SNAP amount ÷ federal minimum wage (max 30 a week).

Volunteer form

ABAWD Volunteer Work Verification Form (Form 805 (01/19))

Who signs it

Volunteer supervisor at the organization (Part II: printed name, signature, date). DFCS fills in Part I.

When it's due

We haven't confirmed this yet. Ask your caseworker.

Official page

Georgia SNAP agency