The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program SNAP in Pennsylvania has recently undergone significant updates in its income limits and benefits. These changes, as announced by Dr. Val Arkoosh, the Secretary of the Department of Human Services (DHS), are aimed at ensuring that families across Pennsylvania continue to receive the necessary assistance to access fresh, nutritious food.
In addition to the income and benefit changes, Dr. Arkoosh also confirmed the extension of the SNAP benefit theft reimbursement program. This service, which began in 2023, has now been extended until December 20, 2024. This extension allows beneficiaries who experience electronic theft of their benefits to apply for reimbursement up to that date.
Annual SNAP updates: more support for families
“Being able to feed your family is not just a health issue; it’s a matter of dignity and personal security,” said Secretary Arkoosh. She emphasized the importance of being able to access fresh food without having to choose between paying for food or covering other essential needs. This peace of mind is crucial for families trying to maintain stability.
Currently, SNAP supports more than two million people in Pennsylvania, making it a vital tool in ensuring that neighbors and community members can keep food on the table. Just in September 2024 alone, the program provided assistance to 2,021,263 people, distributing over $367 million in federally funded food aid. These funds help families obtain necessary food items without compromising their financial stability.
Every year, SNAP is required by federal rules to adjust its benefit levels and income limits. This year, the updates include an average increase of over $5 per month for all beneficiaries. Importantly, no one will see a decrease in their benefits.
If you’re unsure whether your household qualifies for SNAP, the best way to find out is to apply for the program. For current beneficiaries, it’s essential to keep the DHS informed of any income or address changes, and to submit any semi-annual reviews or renewals they receive. By doing so, they can avoid potential disruptions to their benefits.
How to keep your SNAP benefits active
A key part of continuing to receive SNAP benefits is keeping your Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card active. According to federal guidelines, SNAP benefits do not expire as long as the EBT card is used at least once every nine months.
To monitor your balance and transactions, you can check your EBT card information through the DHS contractor, Conduent, by calling 888-328-7366. You can also access your balance and change your PIN using the free myCOMPASS PA app, which is available for Apple and Android devices. This official DHS app offers a secure and convenient way to manage your benefits.
Protecting against benefit theft: the threat of skimming
In recent months, DHS has received multiple reports of benefit theft through a method known as skimming. This fraud involves placing devices on payment terminals or ATMs to read the magnetic stripe on the EBT card and clone the card’s data. By doing so, criminals can steal the benefits stored on the card.
To avoid falling victim to these scams, DHS advises SNAP beneficiaries to protect their cards and never share their PIN with anyone. If you suspect that your card has been skimmed, it’s crucial to act quickly.
How to request reimbursement for stolen benefits
The good news is that SNAP beneficiaries who experience the theft of their benefits through these fraudulent activities can apply for reimbursement until December 20, 2024. If your benefits have been stolen electronically, you can request compensation by filling out a benefit theft claim form, which is available in both PDF format and as a web-based form.
Once your claim has been submitted, DHS will validate the request within 30 days. If your claim is approved, you will receive a reimbursement within 10 days after your application is processed.
The annual adjustments to SNAP and the measures in place to prevent benefit theft are designed to offer greater security and stability to families relying on this program. Staying informed about payment dates, updating personal information, and safeguarding your EBT card are all critical steps to ensure that families continue to access the food they need.
The DHS remains committed to protecting SNAP beneficiaries and ensuring that no one is left without the necessary assistance to meet their nutritional needs. Through ongoing efforts and improvements, SNAP continues to play a key role in supporting the well-being of millions across Pennsylvania.