More changes are on the way for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Supplemental Nutrition and Assistance Program, now for retailers accepting SNAP payments in store.
This is just the latest alteration when it comes to SNAP under the current administration. The controversial One Big Beautiful Bill from U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration included cuts to certain assistance programs, including SNAP.
A 2025 preliminary analysis from the Congressional Budget Office estimated that the bill would result in $267 billion less federal spending for SNAP and $78 billion in additional net state funding to account for changes in contributions to programs such as Medicaid and SNAP, as well as other spending and tax policies.
Changes were also enacted in September to work requirements for some SNAP recipients.
If you’re struggling with food insecurity or are looking to renew your benefits, here’s a recap of how you can qualify for SNAP.
Who Qualifies for SNAP Benefits?
Qualifying for SNAP benefits in Pennsylvania depends on four main pillars: income, work and volunteering, training and education, and your household details.
Here is the maximum monthly income limit for SNAP households, though other factors like health, age, and disability status may also impact eligibility:
- Family of one — $2,610
- Family of two — $3,526
- Family of three — $4,442
- Family of four — $5,360
- Family of five — $6,276
- Family of six — $7,192
- Family of seven — $8,110
- Family of eight — $9,026
- Family of nine — $9,944
- Family of ten — $10,862
The limit increases $918 for each additional family member.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify for SNAP benefits in Pennsylvania, you can submit an application through the state’s online COMPASS Portal to check your eligibility.
What Are the SNAP Work Requirements?
Because of federal rule changes in 2025, many people receiving SNAP benefits must meet certain work, education, or volunteer requirements to maintain their benefits.
Beneficiaries must work, volunteer, or participate in some sort of training or education program for a minimum of 20 hours a week, in addition to reporting their hours to their Department of Human Services caseworker.
The following individuals are expected to fulfill their work requirements:
- Individuals between 18 and 64 years old
- Individuals who don’t have a dependent younger than 14 years of age
- Individuals who are considered physically and mentally able to work
As of November, veterans and current or former foster youths aged 18–24 were no longer exempt from these requirements.
How to Check Your Exemption Status
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania offers an online screening tool to check whether or not you are exempt from SNAP work requirements. You can access the screener through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services website.
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