Assistance programs in Pennsylvania
Explore public benefits and assistance resources by the kind of help you need. Agencies decide eligibility and availability.
Find programs for your situationFood assistance
Pennsylvania WIC
Pennsylvania WIC offers nutritious foods, nutrition services and breastfeeding support to eligible families. A local agency certifies participants.
SNAP Food Stamps (Pennsylvania)
Pennsylvania SNAP provides grocery assistance to eligible households. DHS encourages people to apply even when they are unsure about eligibility.
Housing assistance
PALawHelp.org (Eviction & Legal Help)
PALawHELP offers civil legal information and links to assistance in Pennsylvania. The Legal Aid Network provides a separate application route.
Utility assistance
LIHEAP (Home Energy Assistance)
Pennsylvania LIHEAP helps eligible households with heating costs and qualifying heat emergencies. Intake follows seasonal announcements.
Weatherization Assistance Program (PA DCED)
Pennsylvania weatherization helps eligible households reduce energy waste and improve home comfort. Local providers deliver services in every county.
Health coverage
CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program)
Pennsylvania CHIP offers health insurance to uninsured children and teenagers who do not qualify for Medicaid.
Medical Assistance (Pennsylvania Medicaid)
Pennsylvania Medical Assistance is the state’s Medicaid health-coverage program. The county assistance office reviews eligibility.
Cash and income support
TANF Cash Assistance
Pennsylvania TANF helps eligible pregnant participants and families caring for dependent children meet basic needs.
Unemployment Compensation (PA L&I)
Pennsylvania UC provides temporary income support after qualifying job loss or reduced hours. The state evaluates wage history and separation circumstances.
Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit
The Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit is a refundable state credit based on federal EITC. Claim it through income-tax filing.
Additional support
PA 211
PA 211 helps residents find nearby assistance services through a free, confidential referral service.
Program names come from our existing directory. Funding and rules can change; confirm details with the administering agency before applying.