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of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    Department of Human Services (DHS)

    Our vision is that all Pennsylvanians live safe, healthy, and independent lives, free of discrimination and inequity.

    Apply for Benefits via COMPASS
    Other ways to apply
    PA DHS Secretary Val Arkoosh knelling to speak with a child.

    Overview

    Our mission is to assist Pennsylvanians in leading safe, healthy, and productive lives through equitable, trauma-informed, and outcome-focused services while being an accountable steward of commonwealth resources.

    Report Abuse or Neglect
    Child Abuse Clearances
    Report Assistance Fraud
    Apply for Medicaid Benefits
    Program Resources & Information
    Apply for SNAP (Food Assistance)
    DHS Executive Leadership
    Apply for CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program)

    Suicide prevention & crisis support

    For Immediate Help: Call 988

    If you or someone you know is in crisis or having thoughts of suicide, help is available. Please reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or chatting via 988lifeline.org.

    Support is confidential, free, and available 24/7.

    Featured Services and Programs

    SNAP lunch

    Federal SNAP & Medicaid Cuts

    Changes to federal law in July 2025 made changes to benefits programs like Medicaid and SNAP. Learn what you must do to keep or reapply for benefits.

    Learn about Fed Cuts
    lock unlock card

    EBT Card Lock Feature

    Protect your SNAP benefits with the new Card Lock feature.

    Learn how to lock your card

    Featured Services and Programs

    Expectant mother, pregnant woman at doctor office.

    Healthy Moms, Vibrant Futures

    Ensuring the health and safety of mothers in and their babies the Commonwealth is a top priority of the Shapiro Administration.

    Learn about PA's Maternal Health Strategic Plan

    Information for Providers

    Explore resources, updates, and guidance to support your work and enhance your services.

    Explore provider resources
    PA Department of Human Services

    Data and Reports

    Access data, reports, and information about programs like Medicaid, SNAP, support for people with disabilities and other DHS programs and services.

    DHS Data and Reports

    DHS Offices

    Our offices offer essential services and benefits catering to the diverse needs of Pennsylvanians and are dedicated to helping individuals and families thrive.

    OCDEL

    Office of Child Development & Early Learning

    OCYF

    ​Office of Children Youth & Families

    ODP

    ​Office of Developmental Programs

    OIM

    Office of Income Maintenance

    OLTL

    ​Office of Long Term Living

    OMAP

    Office of Medical Assistance Programs

    OMHSAS

    ​Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services

    OA

    ​Office of Administration

    Protect Your Benefits

    Learn how you can protect your benefits, lock your EBT card, and report scams.

    Protect Your Benefits

    Section 1115 Post-Award Forum

    Post-Award Forum for the Section 1115 Demonstration: Medicaid Coverage for Former Foster Care Youth (FFCY) from a Different State and Substance Use Disorders (SUD)

    Post-Award Forum

    Investments in Health 1115

    DHS seeks to use PA's Medicaid program to offer targeted supports and services to help people live healthier lives.

    1115 Demonstration Waiver

    Highlighted DHS Jobs

    The following positions are currently available and seeking candidates immediately.

    View all DHS employment opportunities
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    Join DHS

    Join PA DHS and build a meaningful career that strengthens communities, supports families, and makes a real difference across Pennsylvania.

    Join our team
    Nurses smiling. Text reads: Nurses - You are needed at multiple DHS facilities.

    Nurses

    We're looking for Nurses who want a rewarding career while helping others.

    Apply Today
    A social services professional supporting sad teenage girl during a difficult situation.

    Social Services

    Make a difference every day - whether you're starting your career, changing direction, or looking for a new challenge - DHS has opportunities.

    Start building your future

    Learn About DHS Programs

    News

    View All DHS News