Might be exempt from the new SNAP or Medicaid work rules
Use when someone may not have to meet the SNAP or Medicaid 80-hour work rules: a parent of a child under 14, pregnant, sick or disabled, in recovery, Native American, a veteran, chronically homeless, or just out of jail.
These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.
SNAP: any illness or disability, short or long term, that makes it harder to support yourself can count as "unfit for work".
If it is obvious, no paper is needed. If not, a note from a doctor, PA, nurse, nurse practitioner, psychologist or social worker works.
SNAP also exempts people applying for or getting SSI, SSDI or disability General Assistance.
Medicaid exempts people who are "medically frail": a disability, blindness, addiction, a disabling mental illness, or a serious or complex medical condition.
Both exempt people in a drug or alcohol treatment program, and people who are pregnant.
Hidalgo Medical Servicesnot yet confirmed: call first
Silver City Community Health Center: Primary medical care
4Homeless, veterans, Native Americans, and people leaving jail
Being homeless is no longer an exemption by itself. But for SNAP in New Mexico, "chronically homeless" counts as unfit for work: homeless more than 6 months, more than once in the last year, or unable to meet basic needs like shelter, food, heat and clothing.
Medicaid has no homeless exemption. Check the health exemptions.
Veterans are no longer exempt from SNAP just for serving. For Medicaid, a 100% VA rating or TDIU is an exemption. Bring the VA benefit summary letter.
NM Department of Veterans Services - Silver City Veterans Service Officer
1000 W College Ave (WNMU Juan Chacon Bldg, Rm 138-A), Silver City · Weekdays (call)
Native Americans are exempt from both rules. Their Medicaid renewals stay at 12 months.
Medicaid exempts people in jail and for 3 months after release. SNAP has no jail exemption.
At the Gospel MissionThe Mission can write an address or affidavit letter. See the guide "Needs a letter proving they are homeless, or to use the Mission's address".
This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer
Know a better way? Is something out of date?
If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.
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Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, 575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.