Changes to SNAP Benefits in Pennsylvania
IMPORTANT UPDATE, 10/24/25:
It is being reported that beginning November 1, SNAP recipients WILL NOT receive benefits if NO agreement is reached on the federal budget. As of now, it is unclear if Congress will reach an agreement before November 1st which would prevent this lapse in benefits. Also, we cannot know how long the lapse in SNAP benefits access could last.
We know that many in the MCC community will be impacted if access to SNAP benefits lapse. SNAP recipients are being encouraged to use food banks as an alternative during any disruption to their benefits. Food banks are not equipped to meet such an overwhelming need, so we will continue to actively seek information from trusted partners on how families can meet their basic needs during this time.
Below are some helpful links to help folks locate their nearest food bank.
Please check back here for updates.
Starting September 1, 2025, significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will take effect. Adults between the ages of 18 and 64, without young children and who are not receiving disability benefits, will be required to demonstrate that they are working, in training, or volunteering to maintain their food benefits.
While these new rules will create challenges for many Pennsylvanians, they will also disproportionally affect the most vulnerable members the hardest, those already facing health issues, caregiving responsibilities, unstable employment, or other barriers. Without proper guidance and information, families risk losing essential food support at a time when groceries and living costs are already at historic highs.
Now, adults between the ages of 18 and 64 who do not have children under 14 and are not receiving disability benefits will need to demonstrate that they are:
- Working at least 20 hours per week
or
- Participating in job training or volunteer service.
Participants will also be required to report to a Caseworker every six months to confirm they are meeting these requirements.
There are, however, important exemptions to be noted. Individuals may be exempt if they:
- Have a physical or mental health condition that limits their ability to work,
- Are enrolled in school or training at least half-time,
- Are earning above a set income threshold,
- Are over age 65, under 18, pregnant, or receiving certain other benefits such as SSI or Unemployment Compensation.
Without taking action, some individuals could risk losing SNAP benefits as soon as November 2025.
