Pennsylvania SNAP

Pennsylvania SNAP helps low-income individuals and families afford a nutritionally adequate diet by providing monthly food assistance benefits.

Benefits range from a minimum of $298 per household member to a maximum of $785 for a family of three, depending on household size, income and allowable expenses.

Unless otherwise exempt, you’re required to register for work or take part in an employment and training program for a minimum of 20 hours a week to maintain eligibility for SNAP.

These programs include, but are not limited to:

Keystone Education Yields Success (KEYS)
Employment Advancement Retention Network (EARN)
SNAP 50/50

FAQ

Who is eligible for SNAP in Pennsylvania?

In order to qualify for SNAP, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Live in Pennsylvania
Be a US Citizen or a lawful permanent resident
Show proof of identity
Meet income limits and other financial eligibility rules

What is the income limit for SNAP in PA?

Most families in Pennsylvania with gross income up to 200% of the federal poverty level, or about $4,442 a month for a family of three, may qualify for food stamps. There is no asset limit in Pennsylvania.

Household Size	100%Net Income	200%Gross Income
1	$1,304	$2,608
2	$1,763	$3,525
3	$2,221	$4,442
4	$2,679	$5,358
5	$3,138	$6,275
6	$3,596	$7,192
7	$4,054	$8,108
8	$4,513	$9,025

Effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. Gross income limit applies to most households, except when at least one member is age 60 or older or receives disability income; in these cases, only the net income test applies.

Pennsylvanians, are you eligible for SNAP?

Find out if you may qualify and get an estimated amount of benefits you could receive.

How much do I get for SNAP in PA?

SNAP benefit amounts vary based on several factors, including household size, income, and allowable deductions such as housing costs, child care expenses, and certain medical expenses for eligible households.

For example, a family of three with no income may receive up to $785 in monthly benefits or $485 each month if the family has a net monthly income of $1,000.

Household Size	SNAP Benefits
1	$298
2	$546
3	$785
4	$994
5	$1,183
6	$1,421
7	$1,571
8	$1,789

The actual SNAP benefit amounts are based on a household’s net income with a general rule that an increase of $100 in net income results in a reduction of $30 in benefits. Use our SNAP calculator to estimate the amount of benefits you can expect to receive.

Benefits are distributed through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, known in PA as the “ACCESS Card” which can be used to make food purchases at authorized grocery stores and supermarkets.

How do I apply for SNAP benefits in PA?

You can apply for SNAP online through COMPASS , Pennsylvania’s benefits application portal, or in person at your local County Assistance Office (CAO).

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services
Customer Service Center
(877) 395-8930

What documents do I need to apply for SNAP in PA?

When you apply for SNAP, you may be asked to provide the following documents:

A valid photo ID
A valid Social Security Number
Proof of residency (where you live)
Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status
Proof of earned and unearned income
Proof of resources or assets (if applicable)
Any additional documents needed to verify your household’s situation

How long does it take to get SNAP in PA?

Once the application process is completed, you will be able to access your SNAP benefits no later than 30 days from the date the office received your application.