Good News for Pennsylvanians: Higher Income Limits and Benefits Announced for SNAP

According to Vibes.okdiario, The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Pennsylvania has recently undergone significant updates regarding income limits and benefits. These changes, announced by Dr. Val Arkoosh, Secretary of the Department of Human Services (DHS), aim to ensure that families across Pennsylvania can access fresh, nutritious food.

Extension of Benefit Theft Reimbursement Program

In addition to changes in income limits and benefits, Dr. Arkoosh confirmed the extension of the SNAP benefit theft reimbursement program. This service, which began in 2023, will now remain active until December 20, 2024. Beneficiaries who experience electronic theft of their benefits can apply for reimbursement until this date.

Annual SNAP Updates: Enhanced Support for Families

“Being able to feed your family is not just a health issue; it’s a matter of dignity and personal security,” stated Secretary Arkoosh. She highlighted the importance of accessing fresh food without having to sacrifice other essential needs. This peace of mind is crucial for families striving for stability.

Currently, SNAP supports over two million people in Pennsylvania, making it an essential resource for neighbors and community members to keep food on the table. In September 2024 alone, the program assisted 2,021,263 individuals, distributing over $367 million in federally funded food aid. These funds allow families to obtain necessary food items without jeopardizing their financial stability.

Benefit Adjustments for 2024

As mandated by federal regulations, SNAP is required to adjust its benefit levels and income limits annually. This year, beneficiaries will see an average increase of over $5 per month, with no one facing a decrease in their benefits.

If you’re unsure whether your household qualifies for SNAP, applying for the program is the best way to find out. Current beneficiaries must keep the DHS informed of any changes in income or address and submit any semi-annual reviews or renewals they receive to avoid disruptions in their benefits.

Keeping Your SNAP Benefits Active

To maintain SNAP benefits, it’s essential to keep your Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card active. Federal guidelines state that SNAP benefits do not expire as long as the EBT card is used at least once every nine months.

You can monitor your balance and transactions by calling 888-328-7366, the DHS contractor Conduent. Additionally, the free myCOMPASS PA app, available for both Apple and Android devices, allows beneficiaries to check their balance, change their PIN, and manage their benefits securely and conveniently.

Protecting Against Benefit Theft

Recently, DHS has received multiple reports of benefit theft through a method known as skimming. This fraud involves the use of devices on payment terminals or ATMs to read the magnetic stripe on EBT cards, allowing criminals to clone the card’s data and steal benefits.

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To protect against these scams, DHS advises SNAP beneficiaries to safeguard their cards and never share their PIN. If you suspect your card has been skimmed, it is important to act quickly.

Requesting Reimbursement for Stolen Benefits

SNAP beneficiaries who experience theft of their benefits through fraudulent activities can apply for reimbursement until December 20, 2024. Those affected can request compensation by filling out a benefit theft claim form, available in both PDF format and as a web-based form.

The annual adjustments to SNAP and measures to prevent benefit theft aim to provide greater security and stability for families relying on this essential program. Staying informed about payment dates, updating personal information, and safeguarding your EBT card are critical steps in ensuring access to necessary food.

The DHS remains committed to protecting SNAP beneficiaries and ensuring that no one is without the assistance they need 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.