Changes to SNAP Benefits in 2025
Resources:
DETAILED OVERVIEW OF 2025 SNAP CHANGES
Starting SEPTEMBER 2025, most adults must work 20 hrs/week in order to keep SNAP benefits.
If you can’t prove you are meeting the work requirement, you will only receive 3 months of SNAP every 3 years.
THOSE WITH EXEMPTIONS WILL MAINTAIN THEIR BENEFITS.
In addition, exemptions that provide SNAP to veterans, former foster youth, and homeless have been eliminated.
NOTE: PA will continue to exempt homeless people, using state discretionary exemptions.
CHANGES TO WORK REQUIREMENTS:
• Work requirements for many adults (18-54 without children under 18 in household) went into effect September 1, 2025.
• 55-64-year-olds & households with a youngest child of 14+ are subject to time limits starting November 1, 2025.
• If you are NOT meeting the work requirement and are NOT exempt, SNAP benefits are now time-limited to 3 months in a 3-year period.
• If you ARE subject to work requirements, you MUST work 80 hours/month to maintain benefits.
TIME LIMITS:
• For those up to age 55 without kids under 18, the time limit starts September 1, 2025. First cutoffs for failing to meet the work requirement will be December 1,2025.
• Those ages 55-64 and parents of kids 14+, the time limit will be rolled out over time, starting November 1, 2025.
• New applicants are subject to time limit immediately.
• Current recipients are not subject until next renewal.
IF YOU THINK YOU WILL LOSE YOUR BENEFITS, FIND OUT IF YOU ARE ELIGIBLE FOR AN EXEMPTION.
FEDERAL EXEMPTIONS:
•Age: 65+ (age 55+ until DHS implements HR 1) or under 18
•In SNAP household with child under 14 (under 18 until DHS implements HR 1)
•Receiving a disability benefit (SSI, SSD, disability-related Medicaid, etc.)
•Receiving or applied for Unemployment
•Medical condition impacts ability to work
• Participating in SUD, mental health, or voc rehab
• Pregnant
• In school or job training at least half time
• Caring for elderly or disabled household member
• Working at least 30 hours/week or earning at least $217.50/week
ADDITIONAL PA STATE EXEMPTIONS:
• Returning to work within 60 days
• Living more than 2 hours round-trip from your education or training site
• Receiving expedited SNAP (only in first month on SNAP)
• Volunteering full time through VISTA
• Experiencing homelessness (County Assistance Office must be aware)
Note: State exemptions vary by state. The above state exemptions only reflect Pennsylvania.
IF YOU MEET ANY EXEMPTIONS:
▪Complete the DHS screening checklist when you get it in the mail or print it online (DHS form CM 558)
▪Complete the medical exemption form with your medical or mental health care provider (PA 1921) if needed
▪Submit both forms online through your Compass account as soon as possible
NEED HELP? Call CAA at (570) 374-0181 or the Central PA Food Bank SNAP Hotline at 1-877-999-5964