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What is changing about the application process for 2026?
For 2026, the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging will now offer an online application option (in addition to mail) and vouchers will be mailed directly to eligible seniors.

Why is the mail delivery option being used?
The mail delivery method was chosen to promote the safety of participants, ensure fair access for all eligible seniors, reduce transportation barriers, simplify administrative and legislative requirements, and prevent duplicate participation. This approach reflects consumer preference and is the most practical option for the upcoming season.

Who is eligible to apply?
To qualify for the program, residents must turn 60 years old by December 31, 2026, live in Allegheny County, and meet established income guidelines. Applicants must meet the following self-reported income limits: a one-person household must have an income of $29,526 or less, and a two-person household must have an income of $40,034 or less. Married couples may each receive a set of vouchers if both individuals meet the eligibility requirements.

Can applications from previous years be used to apply for the 2026 program?
No, the 2026 version of the application must be used to apply for the SFMNP. Old applications do not reflect the correct income guidelines for the 2026 season and will not be considered.

Can I submit more than one application?
It is recommended that only submit one application be submitted per person. Submitting more than one application will slow processing time.

How long is the turnaround time between applying and receiving vouchers?
Residents can expect a 2-to-3-week turnaround time.

How much are the vouchers worth?
Each eligible participant will receive one set of five, $5 vouchers valued at $25 in total.

How many vouchers are available?
The county expects to receive approximately 19,000 voucher sets from the Department of Agriculture.

How are vouchers distributed?
Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis, and vouchers will be mailed between June 1 and September 30, 2026, as applications are received and approved.

Will there be enough vouchers for everyone?
In 2025, approximately 15,600 voucher sets were distributed, and with 19,000 expected for 2026, there should be enough to meet demand.

Where can I find the application and more information?
Program details and the online applications will be available on the Allegheny County website and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture website, and information will also be shared through text message updates via the Farmers Market text line (987987), Blooming Health, local senior centers, SeniorLine, local legislators’ offices, and Senior News publications.

On the application, what does the check box mean “I will have watched the “My Plate for Older Adults” video prior to redeeming my SFMNP vouchers?
It is a self-verification acknowledgement that older adults will watch the nutritional video prior to redeeming vouchers. On the Rules and Regulations handout, that is distributed with every set of vouchers, the My Plate and Nutrition Education information and website links will be on the handout.

Can a proxy go to the Farmers Market to redeem vouchers on behalf of the older adult?
Yes, the older adult or a proxy (someone acting on their behalf) may sign their name on the voucher to redeem at the Farmers Market.

Do I need a proxy form to redeem the vouchers at the Farmers Market?
No form is needed. The person redeeming the voucher should sign their name on voucher.

Why is there a proxy form on the Department of Agriculture website?
The form is available for counties having in-person distribution. There will be no proxy forms needed or accepted for Allegheny County. All eligible older adults will complete a 2026 application to receive vouchers. If a proxy goes to the farmers market to redeem vouchers for another, no proxy form is needed. The person will simply sign their name on the voucher.

Will I receive a confirmation that my online application has been accepted?
Upon submission of the online application, you will receive a confirmation to the email address entered.