Pennsylvania Benefits Access Packet — LSC-Grade Legal Guide

Jurisdiction-correct document templates. Not legal advice.

1. Eligibility Checker — Pennsylvania Public Benefits

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

Medical Assistance (Medicaid)

TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance)

File at: Pennsylvania court finder: https://www.pacourts.us/find-a-court

3. Step-by-Step Application Instructions

Apply Online via COMPASS

1. Go to compass.state.pa.us
2. Click "Apply for Benefits"
3. Create an account
4. Select the benefits you want to apply for:
5. Complete the application
6. Upload documents or submit them later
7. Submit application
8. Complete interview (for SNAP/TANF)

Apply In Person

1. Visit your local County Assistance Office (CAO)
2. Request and complete application

Apply by Phone

5. Application Checklist

Before Applying

• [ ] Gather all required documents
• [ ] Know your household size and income
• [ ] Have Social Security numbers ready
• [ ] Know your housing and utility costs
• [ ] Have bank account information

During Application

• [ ] Answer all questions honestly
• [ ] Report ALL income sources
• [ ] List ALL household members
• [ ] Sign and date the application

LEGAL AID

• Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network (PLAN): palawhelp.org · 1-800-322-9933
• Philadelphia Legal Assistance: phillylegal.org · (215) 981-3800
• Southwestern PA Legal Services: swpls.org · 1-800-243-2020
• PA Courts Self-Help: pacourts.us/self-help · (717) 705-1138

*Not legal advice. Jurist-Diction is not a law firm. Templates are jurisdiction-correct.

Verify current law before filing. For legal advice contact a licensed Pennsylvania attorney or legal aid. jurist-diction.com*