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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
    Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh helping to serve food at Manna Food Pantry.

    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)

    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

    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
    New Safety Feature

    EBT Card Lock Feature

    Protect your SNAP benefits with the new Card Lock feature. Easily lock your card when not in use, and unlock it when you're ready to make a purchase. You can even set it to auto re-lock after 30, 60, or 90 minutes.

    Learn what locking options are available for EBT cards

    Learn About DHS Programs

    News

    View All DHS News