Pennsylvania’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has undergone significant changes to ensure that families across the state have access to nutritious food.
These updates, announced by Dr. Val Arkoosh, Secretary of the Department of Human Services (DHS), focus on raising income limits and benefit amounts to better support low-income households.
Additionally, the SNAP benefit theft reimbursement program has been extended until December 20, 2024, providing more time for beneficiaries affected by electronic theft to recover lost benefits.
Annual SNAP Updates: Greater Support for Families
As part of the annual federal update, SNAP income limits and benefit levels have been adjusted to reflect rising costs of living.
For 2024, Pennsylvania has seen an average $5 per month increase in benefits across all eligible households. Importantly, these changes ensure that no current beneficiaries will see a reduction in their benefits.
“Being able to feed your family is not just a health issue; it’s a matter of dignity and personal security,” said Dr. Arkoosh. This adjustment, combined with Pennsylvania’s SNAP program, supports over two million people in the state.
In September 2024 alone, SNAP provided food aid to 2,021,263 people, distributing over $367 million in federally funded assistance.
Keeping Your SNAP Benefits Active
To maintain access to benefits, SNAP recipients must use their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card at least once every nine months. Beneficiaries can check their balance and manage their transactions through:
- myCOMPASS PA App (available on iOS and Android).
- DHS’s contractor, Conduent, by calling 888-328-7366.
Keeping your information up-to-date with DHS is crucial to avoid any disruptions in benefit payments.
Preventing and Reimbursing Benefit Theft
A growing issue for SNAP beneficiaries is skimming, where fraudsters steal EBT card information by attaching devices to payment terminals. DHS urges beneficiaries to protect their cards and PINs to prevent theft.
If your benefits are stolen, you can apply for reimbursement until December 20, 2024. To do so, you must submit a benefit theft claim form, which is available in PDF and web-based formats.
DHS will process and validate claims within 30 days, and if approved, you will receive a reimbursement within 10 days.
With these updates, Pennsylvania’s SNAP program continues to ensure that low-income families have access to fresh, healthy food without financial strain.
By raising income limits and benefits, extending the theft reimbursement program, and focusing on security, SNAP is supporting the well-being of millions of Pennsylvanians.
FAQs
What are the new SNAP benefits in Pennsylvania?
An average increase of $5 per month per household after the 2024 updates.
How do I keep my SNAP benefits active?
Use your EBT card at least once every nine months.
What is skimming and how can I protect my EBT card?
Skimming is a fraud technique to steal card info. Protect your PIN and report suspicious activity immediately.
How can I request a reimbursement for stolen SNAP benefits?
Submit a benefit theft claim form by December 20, 2024.
How do I check my SNAP balance?
Use the myCOMPASS PA app or call 888-328-7366 to check your EBT card balance.
