WELFARE
The big changes coming to SNAP in Pennsylvania and how they will affect your benefits
These changes will have a significant impact on the two million Pennsylvania families who rely on SNAP for food assistance.
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services has announced updates to the income limits and maximum benefit amounts for SNAP. These adjustments are designed to reflect changes in the cost of living and ensure that the program continues to serve those most in need.
A major change is adjustments to the maximum income limit that families can apply for the benefit:
| Household Size | Maximum Gross Monthly Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,510 |
| 2 | $3,408 |
| 3 | $4,304 |
| 4 | $5,200 |
| 5 | $6,098 |
| 6 | $6,994 |
| 7 | $7,890 |
| 8 | $8,788 |
| 9 | $9,686 |
| 10 | $10,584 |
| Each additional member | +$898 |
These changes came into affect at the start of October 2024 alongside increases to the payout available.
Other changes to the programme include the Thrifty Food Plan, “the cost of food necessary to provide a healthy, budget-conscious diet for a family of four,” explains the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This sets the maximum amount a family can receive in SNAP payments.
| Household Size | Maximum Thrifty Food Plan |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
| 9 | $1,976 |
| 10 | $2,196 |
| Each Additional Member | $220 |
“Being able to feed yourself and your family is not just a health issue; it also instills a sense of self-reliance, safety, and dignity when you know you can access fresh, nutritious foods without making the difficult choice between paying for groceries and paying for other necessities,” said Secretary Jan Arkoosh.
How to find out if your are eligible for SNAP benefits
States have some discretion to determine eligibility, creating differences between the programs. To find those specific to your state, use this directory of state agencies that also provides information on how to apply to begin receiving benefits.
“SNAP helps more than two million Pennsylvanians, many of whom are our friends and neighbors, keep food on their tables,” Secretary Arkoosh continued. “I strongly encourage anyone who may need food assistance to apply for SNAP.”