Some FoodShare Members Will Continue to Be Exempt from Work Requirements Starting October 1, 2020

DHS Logo

ForwardHealth Community Partners

ForwardHealth logo

Updates for local agencies, community-based organizations, and providers who provide assistance to members of Wisconsin's health and nutrition public assistance programs.


Some FoodShare Members Will Continue to Be Exempt from the Work Requirement Starting October 1, 2020

Some FoodShare members are subject to a work requirement as part of their FoodShare eligibility. On April 1, 2020, all FoodShare members who are able-bodied adults without dependents received a temporary exemption from the work requirement until September 30, 2020.

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect economic opportunity throughout the state of Wisconsin. Therefore, on October 1, 2020, this exemption from the FoodShare work requirement will be extended due to the large number of unemployed Wisconsinites.

The statewide exemption from the work requirement will last until no later than September 30, 2021, unless the federal government ends it before that date or changes the areas that are exempted. If a member’s exemption ends before September 30, 2021, they will be informed when they will need to meet the work requirement.

FoodShare members currently receiving a temporary exemption from the work requirement will be sent a letter informing them of their continued exemption.

FoodShare members are still encouraged to participate in the FoodShare Employment and Training (FSET) program if they are looking for assistance in developing job skills or are pursuing career advancement.