Department of Human Services (DHS)

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. The 2025-26 LIHEAP season is also delayed until federal funding is received.

Find FAQs about the shutdown, resources to share, and ways to help. 

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, visit www.pa211.org, 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. 

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.