At Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, we understand that changes to SNAP (formerly known as food stamps) can feel overwhelming. But here’s the most important thing to remember: SNAP is still here, and you are not alone. Our team is ready to help you understand the new rules, protect your benefits and make sure your family has the food you need.
What’s Changing and When?
September 1, 2025
Most adults ages 18–54 without children under 18 must either:
- Work at least 80 hours a month, OR
- Show they qualify for an exemption.
If not, they may only receive SNAP for 3 months in a 3-year period.
November 1, 2025
- Work rules expand to ages 18–64 in homes without a child under 14.
- In two-parent households, both parents must meet the new requirements.
- Only certain immigrant groups will qualify for SNAP:
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- Legal Permanent Residents, Cuban/Haitian entrants, and COFA citizens.
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- All other legal immigrants will no longer be able to receive SNAP.
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- US Citizen children of immigrants will still receive benefits, but the total household benefit may be reduced.
- The rules are changing for how utility costs (heat, cooling) are counted when determining the amount of SNAP households receive.
- Some households may see a decrease in their monthly SNAP benefits.
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- Families can ask the County Assistance Office (CAO) to count excess shelter costs when determining their benefit amount.
Who is Exempt from Work Rules?
You may be exempt if you:
- Are under 18 or age 65+
- Are pregnant
- Have children under 14
- Work and earn at least $217.50/week before taxes
- Are in school or job training (half-time or more)
- Do 20 hours/week of approved community service
- Receive disability or unemployment benefits
- Have a physical or mental health condition that limits your ability to work
- Are experiencing homelessness
- Are in treatment for substance use or mental health
- Are caring for a sick family member
- Are unable to work because of domestic violence
- Are going back to work within 60 days
If you receive a form in the mail from DHS called CM558 – ABAWD Questionnaire, fill it out and return it right away to the CAO to protect your benefits.
What If I Have a Health Problem?
If a health issue makes it hard to work, ask your doctor or therapist to complete DHS Form PA 1921 – Medical Exemption. Submit it to your local CAO to keep your SNAP benefits.
How to Protect Your Benefits if You’re Not Exempt
You must do one of the following:
Work 20 hours/week (80 hours/month)
- Keep the CAO updated if your hours change.
- If you miss work due to illness or emergency, you may still be covered.
Join a job training program (20 hours/week)
- CAO can help connect you.
- Just looking for a job is not enough.
Volunteer at an approved nonprofit
- Required hours depend on your SNAP amount.
- Example: If you receive $292/month, you must volunteer 41 hours/month.
- This must be ongoing community service that is reported to DHS by an approved nonprofit
Lost SNAP or Need Help?
If you lose SNAP or need food, we’re here for you. Call our Community Connections team at 833-822-7627 or visit our get help page
Continue to stay informed by visiting the DHS website for forms and updates.
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hello, do i need to have snap benefits to get food from the food bank
Mark, anyone can come to the food bank, regardless if you have SNAP benefits or not!
hello, do i need to have snap benefits to get food from the food bank?
Mark, no you do not – any neighbor can receive food from the Food Bank!