DHS Updates-Shelter and Utility Verification for SNAP Recipients

As of February 9, 2026, SNAP applicants and recipients must provide proof of their shelter costs and utility responsibility for their current residence. Applicants and recipients must provide proof of these costs at application and at renewal if they are not already on file with PA DHS. SNAP households will need to submit new documentation if they move to a different residence. 

Previously, SNAP recipients only needed to report their shelter costs and utility responsibility to the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services but did not need to provide supporting documentation. 

If current SNAP recipients do not have these documents on file, they will need to provide them at their next renewal. 

Not providing shelter/utility cost verifications will not cause benefits to close or an application to be rejected. 

However, SNAP households that do not provide verification of shelter and utility costs will have their SNAP benefits evaluated without the shelter and utility deductions. This could result in a decrease in SNAP benefits.

As a reminder: If a person’s SNAP eligibility changes, they will receive official notice. No changes will be made to benefits without notice from the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. 

Find more information on the shelter and utility allowance changes and what documents can be used for verification on PA DHS’ website.