Full November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit payments will be issued to recipients in Pennsylvania by the end of the week after delays caused by the recent federal government shutdown and a legal battle over funding.
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services said the funds were being released after being held up due to the shutdown and a dispute over whether the U.S. Department of Agriculture could use contingency funds to cover the cost.
Benefits are expected to be received by recipients by the weekend, the department said, noting they will be issued “as quickly as possible.”
State officials are encouraging SNAP recipients to use the ConnectEBT app or website to check their EBT card balance and to keep their card locked when not in use to protect against skimming or theft.
More than 46,000 residents in Bucks County rely on SNAP, a program that channeled $354 million into Pennsylvania in September alone.
Gov. Josh Shapiro’s administration moved quickly to issue full payments to those owed them last week, following a federal judge’s ruling that the administration of President Donald Trump must release the benefits despite the shutdown. The Trump administration subsequently appealed the ruling to the Supreme Court, causing further confusion.
In late October, Shapiro signed a disaster emergency declaration, releasing $5 million in state funds to Feeding Pennsylvania for distribution across its network of food banks.
The Bucks County Commissioners committed an additional $200,000 in recent weeks to bolster food aid.
“I again want to extend my deepest gratitude to our food banks, food pantries, and every Pennsylvanian who showed the true meaning of community through this crisis,” Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Secretary Val Arkoosh said. “I am relieved we can finally get these critical benefits out, and I urge those who are able to continue to support to our charitable food network as they stabilize and restock to continue their essential work.”
Arkoosh noted that “the effects of this shutdown will last” even after the federal government resumed operations.
The delay in benefits has impacted more than just recipients.
State officials estimate that more than 38,000 stores that take SNAP benefits, including farmers, have been affected.
The recent funding impasse comes after earlier federal cuts this year reduced the money available for food purchasing assistance.
According to Shapiro’s office, the new 2025-2026 state budget includes $7 million in new funding earmarked for food banks and to supplement the SNAP program.
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