United Way Rock River Valley
SNAP Benefits work requirements are changing. Here's what you need to know.
May 1, 2026 — New federal rules require many SNAP recipients to meet work or volunteer requirements to keep their benefits. Over 37,000 local individuals are affected. Many qualify for an exemption — and for those who don't, we can help you find volunteer opportunities that count toward your 80 hours.
How can we help you?
Choose your path below.
I need help
I'm an individual looking for volunteer opportunities
Find and track volunteer hours at local organizations to meet your 80-hour requirement.
I want to help
I'm an agency looking to add volunteer opportunities
List your open volunteer slots so SNAP recipients can find and sign up to work with you.
For individuals: learn your options
Am I exempt?
Many people automatically qualify for an exemption and don't need to meet the 80-hour requirement. You may be exempt if you:
- Care for a child under 6
- Are pregnant
- Have a physical or mental disability
- Are enrolled in a workforce program
- Are employed
- Are an AmeriCorps volunteer
- And more
To apply for an exemption, complete Form 2341 and submit it to IDHS.
Only individuals with an open SNAP case are eligible at this time.
If you're not exempt: the 80-hour rule
You can meet the requirement through any combination of these three options totaling 80 hours per month:
💼
Employment
Work paid hours at any job
🤝
Volunteer work
Complete community service hours at a registered organization
Example: Work 40 hours + volunteer 30 hours + attend a workforce program 10 hours = 80 hours total. ✓
How to use wevolunteer.org to find and track volunteer hours
Visit wevolunteer.org
Go to wevolunteer.org and create a free account. This is where you'll find and track your volunteer hours.
Search for opportunities near you
Browse local organizations with open volunteer slots. Filter by date, cause area, or availability to find what works for your schedule.
Sign up and show up
Register directly through the site and complete your hours. Your agency will log your time in the system.
Track and submit your hours
Use your wevolunteer.org account to document your hours. Submit this record to IDHS at DHS.WinnebagoFCRC@illinois.gov as proof of compliance.
For agencies: add volunteer opportunities
Your organization can make a direct impact. Listing volunteer opportunities on wevolunteer.org connects people who need hours with the work you need done — and helps your neighbors keep their food benefits.
Add your opportunities to wevolunteer.org
Already registered? Log in and add your open slots. New to the platform? Sign up your agency in minutes and start listing opportunities today. Agency sign up instructions →
Questions?
Call 211 for local resource guidance. Our 211 operators are trained to help callers who have lost SNAP benefits or are looking for volunteer opportunities. Learn more about 211 →
You can also reach IDHS directly at DHS.WinnebagoFCRC@illinois.gov.