Starting on October 16, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are not being paid until the federal government shutdown ends and funds are released to Pennsylvania.
The Department of Human Services (DHS) will notify SNAP recipients when payments can resume and when to expect SNAP payments. Patients and recipients can access information about local programs providing assistance by calling 211 or by visiting Feeding Pennsylvania or PA Navigate. SNAP recipients should continue to complete paper and online renewals. Work requirements and limits for some SNAP recipients will take place on November 1.
To keep or become eligible for SNAP, recipients must meet work requirements of 20 hours a week or 80 hours each month of work, volunteering, or participating in an education or training program. These must be reported to fulfill the requirement. This applies to those between 18 and 64 years of age, those with no dependent children under 14 and are considered able to work. Those who qualify for exemptions must complete the Medical Exemption Form and contact a Caseworker.