SNAP Benefits in Pennsylvania: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Pennsylvania. See income limits, how to apply, and how to manage your benefits.
Oct 3, 2025
Rishi Ahuja
SNAP Benefits in Pennsylvania: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Pennsylvania. See income limits, how to apply, and how to manage your benefits.
Oct 3, 2025
Rishi Ahuja
SNAP Benefits in Pennsylvania: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Pennsylvania. See income limits, how to apply, and how to manage your benefits.
Oct 3, 2025
Rishi Ahuja
SNAP Benefits in Pennsylvania: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Pennsylvania. See income limits, how to apply, and how to manage your benefits.
Oct 3, 2025
Rishi Ahuja
SNAP Benefits in Pennsylvania: How to Apply and Qualify
Find out if you qualify for SNAP in Pennsylvania. See income limits, how to apply, and how to manage your benefits.
Oct 3, 2025
Rishi Ahuja
SHARE
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you and your family buy groceries. It provides monthly funds on an EBT card to purchase food at authorized stores across Pennsylvania.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Pennsylvania
Your eligibility for SNAP is tied to your household's gross monthly income. In Pennsylvania, the income limits are set at 200 percent of the federal poverty level, thanks to a policy called Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility.
The amount you can receive depends on your household size. Maximum benefit amounts are guided by the USDA's Thrifty Food Plan. The figures below are for the fiscal year running from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
Household Size 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,510
Maximum Benefit Amount: $292Household Size 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,408
Maximum Benefit Amount: $536Household Size 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,304
Maximum Benefit Amount: $768Household Size 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,200
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,098
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158Household Size 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,994
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390Household Size 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $7,890
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536Household Size 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $8,788
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756For each additional person
Add $898 to the gross monthly income limit
Add $220 to the maximum benefit amount
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Pennsylvania
To qualify for SNAP, you must meet several requirements set by the state. Here’s a breakdown of the main criteria:
Income Limits: Most households must meet specific income and asset limits, though different rules apply if your household includes an elderly or disabled member.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Pennsylvania and apply for benefits in the county where you reside.
Citizenship Status: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens, and everyone applying needs a Social Security number.
Work Requirements: Most able-bodied adults must follow work rules, such as registering for work and accepting suitable job offers.
Special Conditions: Different eligibility rules may apply to seniors, people with disabilities, and college students.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Pennsylvania
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Pennsylvania through three different methods: online, in person, or by mailing in an application.
Online Application
The fastest way to apply is through the state's COMPASS website. This online portal lets you submit your application and documents from home, saving you a trip to a local office.
To start your application, visit the PA Department of Human Services website. You will need to create a COMPASS account or log into an existing one to access the form. Follow the prompts to fill out the application with your household's information.
In-Person Application
If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply at your local County Assistance Office (CAO). Staff can guide you through the form and answer questions about the process or your eligibility.
You can get a paper application at your local CAO, where staff can help you fill it out. Remember to apply in the county where you currently reside, as this is necessary for your case to be processed.
Mail-In Application
For those who cannot apply online or in person, submitting an application by mail is another option. You can download the form, fill it out at your own pace, and mail it.
Download a paper application from the Department of Human Services website. After you print and complete the form, mail it to the County Assistance Office that serves the county where you live.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Pennsylvania
For help with your application, you can call the Department of Human Services (DHS) Helpline at 1-800-692-7462.
Live operators are available to answer questions about SNAP and other benefits Monday through Friday, from 8 AM to 5 PM Eastern.
See Pennsylvania EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Pennsylvania
Once you're approved for SNAP, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, what you can purchase, and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Think of it like a debit card for your food assistance. When you shop at an approved store, you'll use it just like any other card at checkout.
Simply swipe or insert your EBT card into the card reader and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The process is very similar to using a personal debit card. You can also get cashback on eligible items with the Benny app.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are designed to help you buy groceries for your household. You can purchase a wide range of food items that you prepare at home, allowing you to stock your pantry and refrigerator with nutritious staples.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk and cheese
Breads and cereals
Non-alcoholic beverages and snack foods
Seeds and plants that produce food
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. SNAP benefits do not cover non-food items, vitamins, or foods that are sold hot and ready to eat at the point of sale.
Alcoholic beverages
Hot, prepared foods
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Non-food items like cleaning supplies, pet food, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your benefits helps you make the most of them. You'll want to check your balance, know deposit dates, and renew on time.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, your SNAP benefits are deposited on a specific business day of the month. This date is determined by the last digit of your case number, helping you plan your grocery shopping in advance.
You can find your specific payment date in our Pennsylvania deposit schedule.
See Pennsylvania EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance through the online ConnectEBT portal, the Benny app, or by calling the number on your card. Your balance is also printed on store and ATM receipts.
Check out our guide covering each method on how to check EBT balance.
Check Your Pennsylvania EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and others. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After making a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to help manage your spending and get more from your EBT benefits.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Pennsylvania, you must recertify your eligibility for SNAP benefits, usually every 6 or 12 months. You will receive a recertification packet in the mail before your benefits are scheduled to end. Submitting this on time prevents any interruption in your assistance.
You’ll need to provide updated documents with your form. These typically include recent pay stubs, proof of housing expenses like a lease or mortgage statement, and recent utility bills. Be sure to report any changes in your household composition as well.
Special SNAP Services in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers special SNAP services for urgent situations. These include expedited benefits for immediate needs, disaster relief, and simplified applications for older adults.
Expedited SNAP
If you have a food crisis, Expedited SNAP provides benefits within five days. You may qualify with very low income or if housing costs exceed your income. Apply through COMPASS and request “expedited service.”
Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP)
After a federally declared disaster, Disaster SNAP offers short-term food aid. If you live in an affected county with disaster-related expenses, you may be eligible. Watch for D-SNAP announcements to apply during the specified window.
SNAP Replacement Benefits for Food Loss
If a power outage or flood destroys your food, you can get replacement benefits. Report the loss to your County Assistance Office within ten days and submit a replacement affidavit to have funds added to your EBT card.
Simplified SNAP for Older Adults
Pennsylvania offers a simplified application for adults 60 and older or disabled households. This process considers fixed incomes and medical costs. Apply online via COMPASS, by phone, or at a County Assistance Office to access the shorter form.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you and your family buy groceries. It provides monthly funds on an EBT card to purchase food at authorized stores across Pennsylvania.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Pennsylvania
Your eligibility for SNAP is tied to your household's gross monthly income. In Pennsylvania, the income limits are set at 200 percent of the federal poverty level, thanks to a policy called Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility.
The amount you can receive depends on your household size. Maximum benefit amounts are guided by the USDA's Thrifty Food Plan. The figures below are for the fiscal year running from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
Household Size 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,510
Maximum Benefit Amount: $292Household Size 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,408
Maximum Benefit Amount: $536Household Size 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,304
Maximum Benefit Amount: $768Household Size 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,200
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,098
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158Household Size 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,994
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390Household Size 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $7,890
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536Household Size 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $8,788
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756For each additional person
Add $898 to the gross monthly income limit
Add $220 to the maximum benefit amount
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Pennsylvania
To qualify for SNAP, you must meet several requirements set by the state. Here’s a breakdown of the main criteria:
Income Limits: Most households must meet specific income and asset limits, though different rules apply if your household includes an elderly or disabled member.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Pennsylvania and apply for benefits in the county where you reside.
Citizenship Status: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens, and everyone applying needs a Social Security number.
Work Requirements: Most able-bodied adults must follow work rules, such as registering for work and accepting suitable job offers.
Special Conditions: Different eligibility rules may apply to seniors, people with disabilities, and college students.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Pennsylvania
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Pennsylvania through three different methods: online, in person, or by mailing in an application.
Online Application
The fastest way to apply is through the state's COMPASS website. This online portal lets you submit your application and documents from home, saving you a trip to a local office.
To start your application, visit the PA Department of Human Services website. You will need to create a COMPASS account or log into an existing one to access the form. Follow the prompts to fill out the application with your household's information.
In-Person Application
If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply at your local County Assistance Office (CAO). Staff can guide you through the form and answer questions about the process or your eligibility.
You can get a paper application at your local CAO, where staff can help you fill it out. Remember to apply in the county where you currently reside, as this is necessary for your case to be processed.
Mail-In Application
For those who cannot apply online or in person, submitting an application by mail is another option. You can download the form, fill it out at your own pace, and mail it.
Download a paper application from the Department of Human Services website. After you print and complete the form, mail it to the County Assistance Office that serves the county where you live.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Pennsylvania
For help with your application, you can call the Department of Human Services (DHS) Helpline at 1-800-692-7462.
Live operators are available to answer questions about SNAP and other benefits Monday through Friday, from 8 AM to 5 PM Eastern.
See Pennsylvania EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Pennsylvania
Once you're approved for SNAP, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, what you can purchase, and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Think of it like a debit card for your food assistance. When you shop at an approved store, you'll use it just like any other card at checkout.
Simply swipe or insert your EBT card into the card reader and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The process is very similar to using a personal debit card. You can also get cashback on eligible items with the Benny app.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are designed to help you buy groceries for your household. You can purchase a wide range of food items that you prepare at home, allowing you to stock your pantry and refrigerator with nutritious staples.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk and cheese
Breads and cereals
Non-alcoholic beverages and snack foods
Seeds and plants that produce food
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. SNAP benefits do not cover non-food items, vitamins, or foods that are sold hot and ready to eat at the point of sale.
Alcoholic beverages
Hot, prepared foods
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Non-food items like cleaning supplies, pet food, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your benefits helps you make the most of them. You'll want to check your balance, know deposit dates, and renew on time.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, your SNAP benefits are deposited on a specific business day of the month. This date is determined by the last digit of your case number, helping you plan your grocery shopping in advance.
You can find your specific payment date in our Pennsylvania deposit schedule.
See Pennsylvania EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance through the online ConnectEBT portal, the Benny app, or by calling the number on your card. Your balance is also printed on store and ATM receipts.
Check out our guide covering each method on how to check EBT balance.
Check Your Pennsylvania EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and others. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After making a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to help manage your spending and get more from your EBT benefits.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Pennsylvania, you must recertify your eligibility for SNAP benefits, usually every 6 or 12 months. You will receive a recertification packet in the mail before your benefits are scheduled to end. Submitting this on time prevents any interruption in your assistance.
You’ll need to provide updated documents with your form. These typically include recent pay stubs, proof of housing expenses like a lease or mortgage statement, and recent utility bills. Be sure to report any changes in your household composition as well.
Special SNAP Services in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers special SNAP services for urgent situations. These include expedited benefits for immediate needs, disaster relief, and simplified applications for older adults.
Expedited SNAP
If you have a food crisis, Expedited SNAP provides benefits within five days. You may qualify with very low income or if housing costs exceed your income. Apply through COMPASS and request “expedited service.”
Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP)
After a federally declared disaster, Disaster SNAP offers short-term food aid. If you live in an affected county with disaster-related expenses, you may be eligible. Watch for D-SNAP announcements to apply during the specified window.
SNAP Replacement Benefits for Food Loss
If a power outage or flood destroys your food, you can get replacement benefits. Report the loss to your County Assistance Office within ten days and submit a replacement affidavit to have funds added to your EBT card.
Simplified SNAP for Older Adults
Pennsylvania offers a simplified application for adults 60 and older or disabled households. This process considers fixed incomes and medical costs. Apply online via COMPASS, by phone, or at a County Assistance Office to access the shorter form.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you and your family buy groceries. It provides monthly funds on an EBT card to purchase food at authorized stores across Pennsylvania.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Pennsylvania
Your eligibility for SNAP is tied to your household's gross monthly income. In Pennsylvania, the income limits are set at 200 percent of the federal poverty level, thanks to a policy called Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility.
The amount you can receive depends on your household size. Maximum benefit amounts are guided by the USDA's Thrifty Food Plan. The figures below are for the fiscal year running from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
Household Size 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,510
Maximum Benefit Amount: $292Household Size 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,408
Maximum Benefit Amount: $536Household Size 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,304
Maximum Benefit Amount: $768Household Size 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,200
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,098
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158Household Size 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,994
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390Household Size 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $7,890
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536Household Size 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $8,788
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756For each additional person
Add $898 to the gross monthly income limit
Add $220 to the maximum benefit amount
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Pennsylvania
To qualify for SNAP, you must meet several requirements set by the state. Here’s a breakdown of the main criteria:
Income Limits: Most households must meet specific income and asset limits, though different rules apply if your household includes an elderly or disabled member.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Pennsylvania and apply for benefits in the county where you reside.
Citizenship Status: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens, and everyone applying needs a Social Security number.
Work Requirements: Most able-bodied adults must follow work rules, such as registering for work and accepting suitable job offers.
Special Conditions: Different eligibility rules may apply to seniors, people with disabilities, and college students.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Pennsylvania
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Pennsylvania through three different methods: online, in person, or by mailing in an application.
Online Application
The fastest way to apply is through the state's COMPASS website. This online portal lets you submit your application and documents from home, saving you a trip to a local office.
To start your application, visit the PA Department of Human Services website. You will need to create a COMPASS account or log into an existing one to access the form. Follow the prompts to fill out the application with your household's information.
In-Person Application
If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply at your local County Assistance Office (CAO). Staff can guide you through the form and answer questions about the process or your eligibility.
You can get a paper application at your local CAO, where staff can help you fill it out. Remember to apply in the county where you currently reside, as this is necessary for your case to be processed.
Mail-In Application
For those who cannot apply online or in person, submitting an application by mail is another option. You can download the form, fill it out at your own pace, and mail it.
Download a paper application from the Department of Human Services website. After you print and complete the form, mail it to the County Assistance Office that serves the county where you live.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Pennsylvania
For help with your application, you can call the Department of Human Services (DHS) Helpline at 1-800-692-7462.
Live operators are available to answer questions about SNAP and other benefits Monday through Friday, from 8 AM to 5 PM Eastern.
See Pennsylvania EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Pennsylvania
Once you're approved for SNAP, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, what you can purchase, and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Think of it like a debit card for your food assistance. When you shop at an approved store, you'll use it just like any other card at checkout.
Simply swipe or insert your EBT card into the card reader and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The process is very similar to using a personal debit card. You can also get cashback on eligible items with the Benny app.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are designed to help you buy groceries for your household. You can purchase a wide range of food items that you prepare at home, allowing you to stock your pantry and refrigerator with nutritious staples.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk and cheese
Breads and cereals
Non-alcoholic beverages and snack foods
Seeds and plants that produce food
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. SNAP benefits do not cover non-food items, vitamins, or foods that are sold hot and ready to eat at the point of sale.
Alcoholic beverages
Hot, prepared foods
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Non-food items like cleaning supplies, pet food, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your benefits helps you make the most of them. You'll want to check your balance, know deposit dates, and renew on time.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, your SNAP benefits are deposited on a specific business day of the month. This date is determined by the last digit of your case number, helping you plan your grocery shopping in advance.
You can find your specific payment date in our Pennsylvania deposit schedule.
See Pennsylvania EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance through the online ConnectEBT portal, the Benny app, or by calling the number on your card. Your balance is also printed on store and ATM receipts.
Check out our guide covering each method on how to check EBT balance.
Check Your Pennsylvania EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and others. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After making a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to help manage your spending and get more from your EBT benefits.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Pennsylvania, you must recertify your eligibility for SNAP benefits, usually every 6 or 12 months. You will receive a recertification packet in the mail before your benefits are scheduled to end. Submitting this on time prevents any interruption in your assistance.
You’ll need to provide updated documents with your form. These typically include recent pay stubs, proof of housing expenses like a lease or mortgage statement, and recent utility bills. Be sure to report any changes in your household composition as well.
Special SNAP Services in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers special SNAP services for urgent situations. These include expedited benefits for immediate needs, disaster relief, and simplified applications for older adults.
Expedited SNAP
If you have a food crisis, Expedited SNAP provides benefits within five days. You may qualify with very low income or if housing costs exceed your income. Apply through COMPASS and request “expedited service.”
Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP)
After a federally declared disaster, Disaster SNAP offers short-term food aid. If you live in an affected county with disaster-related expenses, you may be eligible. Watch for D-SNAP announcements to apply during the specified window.
SNAP Replacement Benefits for Food Loss
If a power outage or flood destroys your food, you can get replacement benefits. Report the loss to your County Assistance Office within ten days and submit a replacement affidavit to have funds added to your EBT card.
Simplified SNAP for Older Adults
Pennsylvania offers a simplified application for adults 60 and older or disabled households. This process considers fixed incomes and medical costs. Apply online via COMPASS, by phone, or at a County Assistance Office to access the shorter form.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you and your family buy groceries. It provides monthly funds on an EBT card to purchase food at authorized stores across Pennsylvania.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Pennsylvania
Your eligibility for SNAP is tied to your household's gross monthly income. In Pennsylvania, the income limits are set at 200 percent of the federal poverty level, thanks to a policy called Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility.
The amount you can receive depends on your household size. Maximum benefit amounts are guided by the USDA's Thrifty Food Plan. The figures below are for the fiscal year running from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
Household Size 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,510
Maximum Benefit Amount: $292Household Size 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,408
Maximum Benefit Amount: $536Household Size 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,304
Maximum Benefit Amount: $768Household Size 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,200
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,098
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158Household Size 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,994
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390Household Size 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $7,890
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536Household Size 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $8,788
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756For each additional person
Add $898 to the gross monthly income limit
Add $220 to the maximum benefit amount
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Pennsylvania
To qualify for SNAP, you must meet several requirements set by the state. Here’s a breakdown of the main criteria:
Income Limits: Most households must meet specific income and asset limits, though different rules apply if your household includes an elderly or disabled member.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Pennsylvania and apply for benefits in the county where you reside.
Citizenship Status: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens, and everyone applying needs a Social Security number.
Work Requirements: Most able-bodied adults must follow work rules, such as registering for work and accepting suitable job offers.
Special Conditions: Different eligibility rules may apply to seniors, people with disabilities, and college students.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Pennsylvania
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Pennsylvania through three different methods: online, in person, or by mailing in an application.
Online Application
The fastest way to apply is through the state's COMPASS website. This online portal lets you submit your application and documents from home, saving you a trip to a local office.
To start your application, visit the PA Department of Human Services website. You will need to create a COMPASS account or log into an existing one to access the form. Follow the prompts to fill out the application with your household's information.
In-Person Application
If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply at your local County Assistance Office (CAO). Staff can guide you through the form and answer questions about the process or your eligibility.
You can get a paper application at your local CAO, where staff can help you fill it out. Remember to apply in the county where you currently reside, as this is necessary for your case to be processed.
Mail-In Application
For those who cannot apply online or in person, submitting an application by mail is another option. You can download the form, fill it out at your own pace, and mail it.
Download a paper application from the Department of Human Services website. After you print and complete the form, mail it to the County Assistance Office that serves the county where you live.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Pennsylvania
For help with your application, you can call the Department of Human Services (DHS) Helpline at 1-800-692-7462.
Live operators are available to answer questions about SNAP and other benefits Monday through Friday, from 8 AM to 5 PM Eastern.
See Pennsylvania EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Pennsylvania
Once you're approved for SNAP, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, what you can purchase, and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Think of it like a debit card for your food assistance. When you shop at an approved store, you'll use it just like any other card at checkout.
Simply swipe or insert your EBT card into the card reader and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The process is very similar to using a personal debit card. You can also get cashback on eligible items with the Benny app.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are designed to help you buy groceries for your household. You can purchase a wide range of food items that you prepare at home, allowing you to stock your pantry and refrigerator with nutritious staples.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk and cheese
Breads and cereals
Non-alcoholic beverages and snack foods
Seeds and plants that produce food
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. SNAP benefits do not cover non-food items, vitamins, or foods that are sold hot and ready to eat at the point of sale.
Alcoholic beverages
Hot, prepared foods
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Non-food items like cleaning supplies, pet food, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your benefits helps you make the most of them. You'll want to check your balance, know deposit dates, and renew on time.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, your SNAP benefits are deposited on a specific business day of the month. This date is determined by the last digit of your case number, helping you plan your grocery shopping in advance.
You can find your specific payment date in our Pennsylvania deposit schedule.
See Pennsylvania EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance through the online ConnectEBT portal, the Benny app, or by calling the number on your card. Your balance is also printed on store and ATM receipts.
Check out our guide covering each method on how to check EBT balance.
Check Your Pennsylvania EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and others. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After making a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to help manage your spending and get more from your EBT benefits.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Pennsylvania, you must recertify your eligibility for SNAP benefits, usually every 6 or 12 months. You will receive a recertification packet in the mail before your benefits are scheduled to end. Submitting this on time prevents any interruption in your assistance.
You’ll need to provide updated documents with your form. These typically include recent pay stubs, proof of housing expenses like a lease or mortgage statement, and recent utility bills. Be sure to report any changes in your household composition as well.
Special SNAP Services in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers special SNAP services for urgent situations. These include expedited benefits for immediate needs, disaster relief, and simplified applications for older adults.
Expedited SNAP
If you have a food crisis, Expedited SNAP provides benefits within five days. You may qualify with very low income or if housing costs exceed your income. Apply through COMPASS and request “expedited service.”
Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP)
After a federally declared disaster, Disaster SNAP offers short-term food aid. If you live in an affected county with disaster-related expenses, you may be eligible. Watch for D-SNAP announcements to apply during the specified window.
SNAP Replacement Benefits for Food Loss
If a power outage or flood destroys your food, you can get replacement benefits. Report the loss to your County Assistance Office within ten days and submit a replacement affidavit to have funds added to your EBT card.
Simplified SNAP for Older Adults
Pennsylvania offers a simplified application for adults 60 and older or disabled households. This process considers fixed incomes and medical costs. Apply online via COMPASS, by phone, or at a County Assistance Office to access the shorter form.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps you and your family buy groceries. It provides monthly funds on an EBT card to purchase food at authorized stores across Pennsylvania.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Pennsylvania
Your eligibility for SNAP is tied to your household's gross monthly income. In Pennsylvania, the income limits are set at 200 percent of the federal poverty level, thanks to a policy called Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility.
The amount you can receive depends on your household size. Maximum benefit amounts are guided by the USDA's Thrifty Food Plan. The figures below are for the fiscal year running from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
Household Size 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,510
Maximum Benefit Amount: $292Household Size 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,408
Maximum Benefit Amount: $536Household Size 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,304
Maximum Benefit Amount: $768Household Size 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $5,200
Maximum Benefit Amount: $975Household Size 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,098
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,158Household Size 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $6,994
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,390Household Size 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $7,890
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,536Household Size 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $8,788
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,756For each additional person
Add $898 to the gross monthly income limit
Add $220 to the maximum benefit amount
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Pennsylvania
To qualify for SNAP, you must meet several requirements set by the state. Here’s a breakdown of the main criteria:
Income Limits: Most households must meet specific income and asset limits, though different rules apply if your household includes an elderly or disabled member.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Pennsylvania and apply for benefits in the county where you reside.
Citizenship Status: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens, and everyone applying needs a Social Security number.
Work Requirements: Most able-bodied adults must follow work rules, such as registering for work and accepting suitable job offers.
Special Conditions: Different eligibility rules may apply to seniors, people with disabilities, and college students.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
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How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Pennsylvania
You can apply for SNAP benefits in Pennsylvania through three different methods: online, in person, or by mailing in an application.
Online Application
The fastest way to apply is through the state's COMPASS website. This online portal lets you submit your application and documents from home, saving you a trip to a local office.
To start your application, visit the PA Department of Human Services website. You will need to create a COMPASS account or log into an existing one to access the form. Follow the prompts to fill out the application with your household's information.
In-Person Application
If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply at your local County Assistance Office (CAO). Staff can guide you through the form and answer questions about the process or your eligibility.
You can get a paper application at your local CAO, where staff can help you fill it out. Remember to apply in the county where you currently reside, as this is necessary for your case to be processed.
Mail-In Application
For those who cannot apply online or in person, submitting an application by mail is another option. You can download the form, fill it out at your own pace, and mail it.
Download a paper application from the Department of Human Services website. After you print and complete the form, mail it to the County Assistance Office that serves the county where you live.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Pennsylvania
For help with your application, you can call the Department of Human Services (DHS) Helpline at 1-800-692-7462.
Live operators are available to answer questions about SNAP and other benefits Monday through Friday, from 8 AM to 5 PM Eastern.
See Pennsylvania EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Pennsylvania
Once you're approved for SNAP, it's time to learn how to use your benefits, what you can purchase, and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Think of it like a debit card for your food assistance. When you shop at an approved store, you'll use it just like any other card at checkout.
Simply swipe or insert your EBT card into the card reader and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The process is very similar to using a personal debit card. You can also get cashback on eligible items with the Benny app.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are designed to help you buy groceries for your household. You can purchase a wide range of food items that you prepare at home, allowing you to stock your pantry and refrigerator with nutritious staples.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk and cheese
Breads and cereals
Non-alcoholic beverages and snack foods
Seeds and plants that produce food
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. SNAP benefits do not cover non-food items, vitamins, or foods that are sold hot and ready to eat at the point of sale.
Alcoholic beverages
Hot, prepared foods
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Non-food items like cleaning supplies, pet food, and cosmetics
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your benefits helps you make the most of them. You'll want to check your balance, know deposit dates, and renew on time.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, your SNAP benefits are deposited on a specific business day of the month. This date is determined by the last digit of your case number, helping you plan your grocery shopping in advance.
You can find your specific payment date in our Pennsylvania deposit schedule.
See Pennsylvania EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your EBT balance through the online ConnectEBT portal, the Benny app, or by calling the number on your card. Your balance is also printed on store and ATM receipts.
Check out our guide covering each method on how to check EBT balance.
Check Your Pennsylvania EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and others. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After making a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to help manage your spending and get more from your EBT benefits.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Pennsylvania, you must recertify your eligibility for SNAP benefits, usually every 6 or 12 months. You will receive a recertification packet in the mail before your benefits are scheduled to end. Submitting this on time prevents any interruption in your assistance.
You’ll need to provide updated documents with your form. These typically include recent pay stubs, proof of housing expenses like a lease or mortgage statement, and recent utility bills. Be sure to report any changes in your household composition as well.
Special SNAP Services in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers special SNAP services for urgent situations. These include expedited benefits for immediate needs, disaster relief, and simplified applications for older adults.
Expedited SNAP
If you have a food crisis, Expedited SNAP provides benefits within five days. You may qualify with very low income or if housing costs exceed your income. Apply through COMPASS and request “expedited service.”
Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP)
After a federally declared disaster, Disaster SNAP offers short-term food aid. If you live in an affected county with disaster-related expenses, you may be eligible. Watch for D-SNAP announcements to apply during the specified window.
SNAP Replacement Benefits for Food Loss
If a power outage or flood destroys your food, you can get replacement benefits. Report the loss to your County Assistance Office within ten days and submit a replacement affidavit to have funds added to your EBT card.
Simplified SNAP for Older Adults
Pennsylvania offers a simplified application for adults 60 and older or disabled households. This process considers fixed incomes and medical costs. Apply online via COMPASS, by phone, or at a County Assistance Office to access the shorter form.
