FoodShare: Basic Work Rules

Person sitting at a table working on a laptop

Federal rules require FoodShare applicants and members who are ages 16 to 59 to follow FoodShare basic work rules. When you complete a FoodShare application or renew your benefits, you are agreeing to follow the rules.

If you do not follow FoodShare basic work rules, and you do not have an exemption or a good cause reason, you will not be able to get FoodShare benefits for a period of time. This is called a sanction period.

What are the basic work rules?

If you need to follow FoodShare basic work rules, you must:

  • Provide your agency with your employment status or ability to work.
  • Not quit a job of 30 or more hours per week voluntarily and without good cause (or a job with weekly earnings of $217.50 or more).
  • Not reduce your work hours to less than 30 per week without good cause (unless you are earning weekly wages of $217.50 or more).
  • Accept a job offer, if you are offered a job that is a good fit.
  • Meet the unemployment compensation program work requirements if you applied for or are getting unemployment benefits.
  • Meet the Wisconsin Works (W-2) program work requirements if you are taking part in W-2.

What are exemptions to the basic work rules?

Exemptions are reasons why you don't have to follow the basic work rules under federal law.

What are good cause reasons not to follow the basic work rules?

Good cause means there is something you cannot control that temporarily stopped you from following the basic work rules.


Additional questions about FoodShare basic work rules


Additional resources

  • While related, the FoodShare basic work rules are different than the work requirement.
    • If you are a FoodShare member ages 18 to 54, and do not have any children under 18 living in your home, you may need to meet a work requirement to get benefits.
    • This is in addition to following FoodShare basic work rules.
  • DHS has A Guide to the FoodShare Work Requirement, P-03606 available to FoodShare members who need to meet a work requirement to get benefits.

For further assistance

If you have questions about FoodShare or the basic work rules, contact your agency.

Last revised April 23, 2025