翻訳Federal Government Shutdown Update — 10/17/2025
Because Republicans in Washington D.C., failed to pass a federal budget, causing the federal government shutdown, November 2025 SNAP benefits cannot be paid. Starting October 16, SNAP benefits will not be paid until the federal government shutdown ends and funds are released to PA. We will notify SNAP recipients when payments can resume, and we will let you know when to expect SNAP payments.
Please be patient and respectful to our staff while we try to assist you through these changes caused by the federal government shutdown. If you need immediate food assistance, call 211 or visit www.feedingpa.org or pa-navigate.org/
Reminder: If you are receiving SNAP, please remember that you are still responsible for completing renewals and reporting any changes to your income, contact information, or the people living in your home during the shutdown. SNAP recipients should also remember changes mandated by the federal government that will take effect November 1 and report their work, schooling, or volunteer participation to DHS.
Important Notice About Medicaid and SNAP Benefits
In July 2025, Republicans in Congress passed a bill that will change programs run by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS). President Trump signed that bill into law.
The law makes changes to Medicaid (Medical Assistance) and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Medicaid has not changed at this time. For some SNAP recipients, these changes will begin September 1, 2025 and November 1, 2025. Learn more about SNAP work requirements, how they affect SNAP benefits, and how to report that you are meeting these requirements.
Your benefits have not changed at this time and will not change without notice from DHS. You will have the opportunity to update your case information.
Be on the lookout for more information from DHS. Keep your address and other contact information up-to-date with DHS and the US Postal Service. We will help you prepare for these changes as they come.
Apply for SNAP
Apply online, in person, or by mail. All Pennsylvanians who need help are encouraged to apply.
You do not need to know whether you are eligible to apply for SNAP. DHS will review your application and let you know.
Do I qualify?
To qualify for SNAP, you must meet certain rules. These are set by the federal government.
Your eligibility depends on:
- Income: Your household income must be within federal limits.
- Household details: Health, disability status, and household size can affect eligibility.
- Work and volunteering: Some adults must work or volunteer to stay eligible.
- Training and education: Going to school or being in a job training program may meet this requirement.
Who can apply?
- The head of the household
- The spouse of the head of household
- Any other responsible household member
- A designated authorized representative (can be a friend, relative, neighbor, or community organization).
Eligibility
Your SNAP eligibility is determined by a few factors, including income and family size.
The chart below provides an overview of SNAP eligibility. You may be eligible for additional SNAP funds based on your circumstances.
A household is a group of people who usually purchase and prepare meals together. People in the household do not have to be related.
Maximum Benefit Amounts (effective October 1, 2024)
How much might SNAP help my family?
The table shows the highest monthly benefit a family can receive based on family size. These benefits are not cash and can only be used on food purchases.
| Family Size | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | Each Additional |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum | $292 |
$536 |
$768 |
$975 |
$1,158 |
$1,390 |
$1,536 |
$1,756 |
Add $220 |
SNAP Income Guidelines (effective October 1, 2024)
What is the income limit for my family size?
Your household’s SNAP income limit depends on multiple factors. The table shows the maximum monthly income, but the best way to know what you qualify for is to apply.
| Household Size | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | Each Addt’l |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum Gross Monthly Income | $2,510 | $3,408 | $4,304 | $5,200 | $6,098 | $6,994 | $7,890 | $8,788 | $9,686 | $10,584 | $898 |
