Nearly 2 million Pennsylvanians rely on SNAP to help put food on the table — including more than 713,000 children and nearly 697,000 older adults. New federal requirements and funding changes are creating new challenges for families who depend on monthly food assistance.
Who Could Be Impacted?
Families most at risk include:
- Adults subject to new work reporting requirements
- Households with children
- Older adults living on fixed incomes
- People with disabilities or caregiving responsibilities
- Families who miss paperwork deadlines or do not update information
Under the new SNAP rules, some recipients must report that they are meeting work requirements or participating in approved activities. Failure to report could result in losing benefits or being limited in how long benefits are received.
What Families Should Do Now
Step 1
Make Sure DHS Has Your Current Address
Do not miss important notices. Families should:
- Update their address with Pennsylvania DHS
- Check mail regularly
- Sign up for text and email alerts
- Review their COMPASS account
Step 2
Keep Documentation Ready
Save proof of:
- Employment hours
- School enrollment
- Job training
- Volunteer activities
- Medical conditions
- Caregiving responsibilities
These records may help determine whether someone qualifies for an exemption or meets requirements.
Step 3
Ask Questions Before Benefits Stop
Do not wait until an EBT card stops working. Contact:
- Pennsylvania Department of Human Services
- Your county assistance office
- Local food banks and community organizations
Step 4
Know Your Food Resources
Families should also identify backup resources:
- Food pantries
- Senior food programs
- School meal programs
- Community meal programs
- Local faith-based food assistance
What Families Can Do Today
- Update your contact information with DHS
- Check your benefits before there is a problem
- Keep important paperwork together
- Ask questions early
- Reach out to community organizations for help
- Share this information with family members and neighbors