SNAP Benefits Can’t Be Paid Due to Federal Shutdown

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) announced earlier this week  that SNAP benefits scheduled for November will be delayed indefinitely until Congress resolves the budget stalemate and reopens the government.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides food benefits to low-income individuals and families. According to state data, most Pennsylvania SNAP households include children, elderly residents or people with disabilities.

The Government shutdown is now in it’s fourth week.

“Because Republicans in Washington D.C., failed to pass a federal budget, causing the federal government shutdown, November 2025 SNAP benefits cannot be paid. Starting October 16, SNAP benefits will not be paid until the federal government shutdown ends and funds are released to PA. We will notify SNAP recipients when payments can resume, and we will let you know when to expect SNAP payments, ”  a statement reads on the PA Dept of Human Services website

Please be patient and respectful to our staff while we try to assist you through these changes caused by the federal government shutdown. If you need immediate food assistance, call 211 or visit www.feedingpa.org or pa-navigate.org/