TX HHS Form H1808. Agreement to Follow SNAP Work Rules

Form H1808, titled “Agreement to Follow SNAP Work Rules”, is an official document used by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). This form is required when HHSC determines that a person in a household has not complied with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) work requirements. By signing the form, the individual formally agrees to follow the work rules in order to maintain or restore eligibility for SNAP benefits.

Purpose of Form H1808

The primary purpose of Form H1808 is to document an individual’s acknowledgment and acceptance of SNAP work rules. It serves as a written agreement between the SNAP recipient and HHSC, confirming that the recipient understands what is required and the consequences of failing to comply again.

This form is not an application for benefits. Instead, it is a compliance and enforcement document used after a work-related issue has been identified.

Who Must Complete This Form

Form H1808 is completed by a household member who:

• Is subject to SNAP work requirements under Texas rules
• Has been found by HHSC to be noncompliant with those requirements
• Wants to continue receiving or regain SNAP benefits

Only the individual who failed to meet the work rules is required to sign the form, not every member of the household.

When This Form Is Required — and When It Is Not

This form is required when HHSC formally determines that a SNAP household member did not follow required work rules and needs written confirmation of future compliance.

The form is generally not required if:

• The individual is exempt from SNAP work requirements
• No work-rule violation has been identified
• The case is still under review or appeal and no final decision has been made

Explanation of Key Sections

Applicant Identification

This section includes the individual’s name, SNAP EDG (Eligibility Determination Group) number, and date. Accurate identification ensures the agreement is linked to the correct household and case.

SNAP Work Rules

The form clearly lists the core obligations required to receive SNAP benefits, including:

• Responding to letters from employers or work programs
• Working or training as required by an assigned program
• Accepting suitable job offers
• Not quitting a job or program without good cause

The form also provides HHSC contact information for individuals who are unsure whether they have a valid reason for not meeting a requirement.

Penalties for Noncompliance

This section explains the graduated penalties for repeated violations:

• First violation: Loss of SNAP benefits for one month
• Second violation: Loss of benefits for three months
• Third violation: Loss of benefits for six months

Penalties usually end once the individual complies with the work rules again.

Rights and Responsibilities

This section outlines important protections and obligations, including the right to refuse jobs that pay below minimum wage, the right to appeal HHSC decisions, and the responsibility to report changes in address, employment, income, or program participation.

Signature and Agreement

By signing the form, the individual confirms that they understand the work rules and agree to follow them. The signature makes the agreement official and enforceable.

Legal and Regulatory Context

SNAP work requirements are governed by federal SNAP regulations and implemented at the state level by HHSC. Texas is required to enforce these rules to maintain federal funding and program integrity. Form H1808 provides written evidence that HHSC informed the recipient of their obligations and that the recipient agreed to comply.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring letters from HHSC or work programs
• Failing to report job or income changes on time
• Signing the form without understanding the penalties
• Assuming exemptions apply without confirmation from HHSC

Practical Tips for Completing Form H1808

• Review all listed work rules carefully before signing
• Contact HHSC if you are unsure whether a job or program is suitable
• Keep a copy of the signed form for your records
• Report changes promptly to avoid additional penalties

Real-Life Examples of When This Form Is Used

• A SNAP recipient fails to attend required job training and HHSC issues Form H1808 to reestablish compliance
• An individual quits a job without notifying HHSC and must sign the form to regain eligibility
• A household member ignores work program letters and receives this form after a compliance review

Documents Commonly Associated With This Form

• SNAP eligibility notices
• Employment or work program correspondence
• Appeal requests or hearing notices (if applicable)

Frequently Asked Questions

Does signing Form H1808 restore SNAP benefits immediately?

No. Benefits are restored only after the penalty period ends and the individual follows the work rules.

Can I appeal a SNAP work-rule decision?

Yes. You have the right to appeal decisions made about your case.

What if I cannot meet a work requirement?

You should notify HHSC as soon as possible to discuss whether you have good cause.

Do all household members need to sign?

No. Only the person who violated the work rules signs the form.

What happens if I violate the rules again?

Each additional violation results in a longer SNAP disqualification period.

Micro-FAQ

• Purpose: Confirms agreement to follow SNAP work rules
• Who files: SNAP household member found noncompliant
• Deadline: As directed by HHSC
• Attachments: Usually none
• Submitted to: Texas HHSC

Related Forms

• SNAP Eligibility Review Forms
• SNAP Employment and Training Notices
• SNAP Appeal Request Forms

Form Details

• Form Name: Agreement to Follow SNAP Work Rules
• Form Number: H1808
• Agency: Texas Health and Human Services Commission
• Region: Texas
• Revision Date: November 2024