Starting September 1, 2025, new federal regulations governing the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps, have been implemented.
This change follows the passage of a budget reconciliation bill by Congress in July 2025, which imposes new work requirements for certain SNAP recipients in Pennsylvania, particularly affecting those in Philadelphia.
To maintain eligibility for SNAP benefits, individuals between the ages of 18 and 54 who do not have dependent children under 18 must now engage in work, volunteer, or participate in educational or training programs for a minimum of 20 hours a week or 80 hours each month.
Additionally, recipients are required to report their compliance with these work requirements to the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (PA DHS).
It is important to note that starting November 1, 2025, the work requirements will expand to include those aged 18 to 64 without dependent children under 14.
If affected individuals fail to meet these requirements, they risk losing their SNAP benefits after three months within a three-year span.
For those who find themselves subject to these new rules, a crucial deadline is approaching in December 2025 when potential benefit losses will take effect if they do not comply.
The new regulations introduce significant changes to SNAP eligibility, marking a departure from previous policies, especially for individuals who have not faced work requirements in the past.
It is vital for current SNAP recipients and individuals who may face food insecurity to understand these new rules.
Who is exempt from the new work requirements?
Certain individuals will remain unaffected by these changes. Under the new guidelines, those who are already working and earning a minimum of $217.50 weekly are exempt.
Other exemptions include individuals under 18 or over 55 years old (which will increase to 65 on November 1), parents or guardians of children under 18 (changing to children under 14 on the same date), and those receiving disability benefits such as SSI or SSD.
Additionally, exemptions apply to pregnant individuals, those involved with part-time school or training programs, recipients of unemployment benefits returning to work within 60 days, caregivers for sick or disabled family members, and individuals unable to work due to domestic violence or those engaged in drug or mental health treatment.
For individuals with physical or mental health conditions that limit their ability to work, documenting their situation with a Medical Exemption form signed by a healthcare provider will be crucial for retaining benefits.
So, what steps should recipients take?
First, individuals need to assess whether these new rules apply to them.
It is essential to stay vigilant by frequently checking postal mail for any communications regarding their SNAP benefits from PA DHS.
In cases where exemptions might apply, individuals should arrange for their medical provider or therapist to complete a Medical Exemption form.
If they do not qualify for exemptions, exploring job placements, training, or volunteer opportunities should be prioritized.
Maintaining open communication with the County Assistance Office (CAO) and caseworkers regarding one’s situation is also advised.
For those experiencing food insecurity or needing assistance, the City of Philadelphia offers resources through its Food and Meal Finder, where residents can locate sites to obtain supplemental food, groceries, and ready-to-eat meals.
Additionally, various resources offer further assistance in locating food support, including feedingpa.org, sharefoodprogram.org, and the Pennsylvania state website for food security information.
These new requirements underscore the need for vigilance among Philadelphia’s SNAP recipients as they navigate the complexities and challenges posed by these changes.
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