New York: proving volunteer hours for Medicaid and SNAP

Medicaid

Starts January 1, 2027

Who it covers

Adults 19 to 64 who got Medicaid through expansion, unless exempt

Hours needed

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

When it starts

January 1, 2027. Current enrollees could face the rules starting with March 2027 renewals (NYC Health Dept).

How often they check

Many adults 19-64 will renew every 6 months instead of 12

Months they look back

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

Hardship exceptions

3 of the 4 optional exceptions; not travel outside the community for medical care (KFF).

Proof of volunteer hours

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

Notes

Adults 19-64 must show 80 hours a month of work, work training, community service or school, or $580 a month household income. Self-attestation allowed for some exemptions (e.g. medically frail) in 2027.

Official page

New York Medicaid agency

SNAP

Does volunteering count?

Yes

Time limit waiver

The time limit is waived in some areas. Waived only on the Tuscarora Nation and Poospatuck reservations through Feb. 28, 2027; USDA denied the New York City districts. Checked October 9, 2026.

How many hours

80 hours a month of work or a qualifying activity. Volunteering only: monthly hours = SNAP benefit (split among adults) ÷ NYS minimum wage (NYC example: $298 ÷ $17 = 17 hours).

Volunteer form

Monthly ABAWD Volunteer Participation Record (FIA-1021z (NYC HRA; counties use their own, e.g. Onondaga))

Who signs it

You sign Part 1. Staff of the public or nonprofit program sign Part 2 with name, title and phone.

When it's due

Monthly. NYC: by the end of each month. Onondaga County: by the 5th of the next month.

Official page

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