SNAP Recipients Must Take Action to Ensure They Don’t Lose Benefits in December

Recipients that fail to take action to secure their SNAP benefits could lose them in December following federal changes to the benefits that have recently taken effect.

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As of Sept. 1, many adults on SNAP are required to work at least 20 hours per week or qualify for an exemption. People who do not properly document that they meet these conditions can only receive three months of benefits over a three-year period, meaning they would run out in December.

See informational flyer in English or en Español.

Which SNAP recipients need to take new action steps as a result of federal changes?

The following individuals DO NOT need to take new action steps:

• Children under 18

• Parents who have a child under 14 in their SNAP household

• Adults over 64

• Adults receiving SSI or SSDI

All other adults between 18-64 years old must take the following actions:

• Complete the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services’ (DHS) screening form checklist that was mailed to recipients by the DHS. The checklist can also be found online.

• Gather verification if needed.

  • If health limits work, have a doctor or therapist sign a medical exemption form.

  • If other exemption, indicate on screening form; no additional verification needed.

  • If working, obtain paystubs 

  • If none of the above apply, talk to SNAP caseworker about volunteer/training opportunities.

• Return the screening form and proof to the County Assistance Office, which is operated at the state level by the DHS.

  • The best way to do this is through the myCOMPASS PA app

  • Include the case number if returning in person, by mail, or by fax

  • Ensure your address is updated on COMPASS (or call a CAO to update it) in case the state requests documentation from you to prove your exemption.

Details about who needs to take action and when can be found on the DHS’ website.

For Providers

To ensure that people in your network are aware of these updates, share this flyer from the Housing Stabilization Center that summarizes key action items and includes quick reference phone numbers.