HARRISBURG, Pa. - Officials announced that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program payments will be paused for Pennsylvania recipients because the federal government shutdown has prevented the release of funds to the state.

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services stated that the pause in benefits began Oct. 16 and will continue until the federal government shutdown ends and Congress appropriates funding for the program. The decision means that November 2025 SNAP benefits cannot be paid at this time.

The department's notice emphasized that state funds cannot be used to cover the federal government’s share of the program, which provides over $366 million in monthly food assistance to approximately 2 million Pennsylvanians.

State officials asked for patience from the public as the Department of Human Services works to manage the changes caused by the lapse in federal funding. The agency said it will notify recipients when payments can resume and when they should expect to see those benefits.

For Pennsylvanians needing immediate food assistance during the pause, the Department of Human Services directed them to call 211 or visit the websites for Feeding Pennsylvania or PA Navigate for resources.

Despite the funding pause, the Department of Human Services reminded all SNAP recipients that they must continue to fulfill program obligations.

Recipients are still responsible for:

  • Completing renewals as required.
  • Reporting any changes to their income, contact information, or the people living in their home.

Additionally, the state reminded recipients about new federal work requirements that take effect on Nov. 1, 2025. Recipients must report their work, schooling, or volunteer participation to the Department of Human Services to comply with those mandated changes.