HOW TO FILE
AN APPEAL IF
YOU LOSE SNAP

New changes began on September 1, 2025

Starting September 1, 2025, many Pennsylvanians will only be able to get 3 months of SNAP every 3 years unless you can show you are exempt from or complying with SNAP work requirements.

New work requirements apply if you are ages 18 to 64, you don’t get SNAP for children under 14, and you don’t receive a disability benefit.

Lost your SNAP due to work requirements?

You have the right to an appeal!

1. File an appeal right away.

  • Submit the Fair Hearing Request Form that came with your notice via the MyCompass app or at your County Assistance Office (CAO). Ask for a receipt.
  • Appeal within 15 days of the date on your notice to keep getting SNAP until your hearing.
  • You can appeal up to 90 days after the date on the notice. It takes about 2 months to schedule a hearing.
  • Use this time to work with the CAO to show that you are exempt or meeting the work rules.

2. Check if you are exempt.

  • Tell the CAO if you:
    • Have a health condition that makes it hard to work
    • Are pregnant
    • Are in school or job training at least half-time
    • Applied for or receive unemployment benefits
    • Care for someone who is sick or elderly
    • Are in drug or mental health treatment
    • Will start a job within 60 days
    • Cannot work because of domestic violence
    • Are homeless
  • If you have a health condition that limits your ability to work, get a “Medical Exemption” form (PA 1921) signed by your provider and submit it to the CAO.
  • Report other exemptions at the CAO or call the Customer Service Center at 1-877-395-8930.
  • Once the CAO approves your exemption, you can withdraw your appeal.

3. Meet the Work Rules

  • If you are not exempt, you must work or do job training for 20 hours a week, or volunteer. Unpaid work counts!
  • Tell the CAO what work you are doing in person or by calling 1-877-395-8930.
  • Once the CAO confirms you are meeting the work requirements, you can withdraw your appeal.
  • Learn more about complying with work requirements here.

Need legal help?

You can ask for legal help with SNAP appeals.
Summit Legal Aid serves Armstrong, Cambria, Clarion, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Jefferson, Somerset, Washington, and Westmoreland Counties. 
Find your local office here.
Our hours are Monday through Friday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Check here to find your local legal aid program outside of our ten-county region: palegalaid.net/legal-aid-providers-in-pa

WE CAN HELP

Depending on the issue, we can give you advice, represent you in court, or help you fill out complicated legal paperwork. And if you qualify, our services will be free to you.

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