Virginia Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Healthy eating for older adults is important for maintaining strength, supporting overall health, and staying independent as you age. The Virginia Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, helps older adults, people with disabilities, and families with low income afford healthy food and groceries.

If you're approved for SNAP benefits, you’ll receive an electronic benefits card (or EBT card). It works like a prepaid debit card and can be used at most grocery stores, convenience stores, superstores, wholesale retailers, and even farmers markets to buy SNAP-approved food items. You can also make SNAP purchases on Amazon. Many older adults in Virginia get about $188 each month to help with groceries.

It’s worth checking your SNAP eligibility for yourself or someone you care for.

Learn more and find out if you're eligible for SNAP in Virginia by using this screener tool.

Quick links

• Virginia SNAP Program Website

• Printable SNAP Application (English)

• Printable SNAP Application (Spanish)

How do I know if I am eligible for SNAP in Virginia?

To get SNAP, your household must meet the following basic rules:

• You must be a resident of Virginia and a U.S. citizen.

• Certain lawfully present non-citizens may qualify for SNAP. Even if you can’t get SNAP benefits, your family members born in this country can.

• You must meet certain income and resource limits, with some exceptions.

Your SNAP “household” can include everyone in your home who shops for and prepares meals with you. Certain household members may also have to meet certain work requirements.

Virginia SNAP: Quick Facts

What is Virginia SNAP?

A program that helps low-income families, older adults, and people with disabilities pay for food.

Who can get help?

People who meet the program’s income and other rules. Special rules apply if someone in your household is age 60+ or has a disability.

How much can I get?

Your monthly amount depends on your household size, income, and certain expenses.

How do I use my benefits?

Benefits are added to an EBT card each month. You use it like a debit card.

How do I apply?

Apply through the CommonHelp website. You can also apply by phone, in person, or by mail.

What are the SNAP work requirements in Virginia?

As of Feb. 1, 2026, SNAP work rules have changed for some people:

• Under the new federal rules, adults age 55–64 who do not have dependents may need to work or join a SNAP job training program for 80 hours each month to keep their SNAP benefits. Volunteer activities may count toward the 80 hours.

• Veterans must now follow these work rules, too.

• Some caregivers may not have to follow these work rules. Those details are still being worked out.

These changes may affect how long some people can get SNAP benefits, especially in areas where jobs are hard to find.

Note:The SNAP work rule changes are not in place everywhere yet. Some states have extra time, so the rules may start later. Talk to someone at your local VDSS office to find out when the new rules start and what they mean for you.

How much SNAP help can I get in Virginia?

If you qualify, the amount of money you get in Virginia SNAP benefits depends on:

• How much you earn from your job or other income you receive, like Social Security

• How many people live with you

If you’re 60+ or you have a disability, you may be able to get more SNAP benefits by reporting monthly costs like medical bills (over $35), housing costs, and utility bills. In 2026, the average monthly SNAP benefit for a one-person household is $188.

What are income limits? How do they affect my SNAP eligibility?

Income limits are the most money your household can receive each month and still get SNAP. The limits depend on how many people are in your household. Most households in Virginia can apply if their gross (total, before taxes) income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.

If someone in your household is age 60 or older or has a disability, SNAP uses special rules to decide if you qualify and how much of your income counts.Many older adults are surprised they qualify for SNAP. The best way to know is to apply.

The income limits you see below apply from October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027. If you’re not sure whether you qualify, your local SNAP office can review your situation and help explain your options. You can also check your eligibility right now—just scroll up and click the black ‘See If You May Be Eligible’ button.

Family size Maximum net monthly income (100% FPL)

1 $2,660

2 $3,608

3 $4,554

4 $5,500

5 $6,448

For each additional person, add: +$948

Source: USDA.gov, SNAP Eligibility (October 2026)

You can own a home or car and have savings and still qualify for Virginia SNAP. Most households have no asset limit. For some households, savings and other financial assets may count toward a limit.

How do I apply for SNAP in Virginia?

1. Get important documents ready

When applying for Virginia SNAP, you’ll be asked for important information to help determine if you qualify and the amount you can get each month. Before you start, gather the following information to make your application process easier:

• Household income from jobs, child support, and other income sources

• Social Security numbers and birth dates of all household members

• Housing (rent/mortgage) and utility (phone, electric, gas, water) costs

• Child care or dependent care costs

Examples of documents you may need to verify (prove) the information above include:

• Driver's license or other government-issued ID

• Birth certificate

• Bank statements

• Pension statements

• Social Security statements

• Pay stubs

• Tax returns

• Social Security card

• Proof of household expenses (such as utility and phone bills)

• Marriage license or divorce decree

If you would like to have someone else (like a friend or family member) help you gather the necessary documents, complete your SNAP application, and even join you in your interview, you can name that person as your Authorized Representative in your application.

2. Complete an application

There are several ways to apply for Virginia SNAP. Read below to learn more about which option might be right for you.

APPLY ONLINE

The quickest and easiest way to apply for SNAP in Virginia is online. You’ll be glad to know that when you do, all your personal information is kept 100% confidential and protected by special security technology.

Apply Online

To apply online:

• Visit the CommonHelp website and click 'Apply for All Benefit Programs.'

• Click on 'New to CommonHelp? Click here to create an account.'

• On the next screen, follow the instructions to set up your username and password.

• Once you're logged in to your account, you will see a Confidentiality Agreement for your review. If you wish to continue after reading, click 'I Accept.'

• On the next screen, choose SNAP as the program you want to apply for.

• You’ll then be asked to complete a short Food Security screening. After that, follow the prompts to complete your SNAP application.

• It should take you about 30 to 45 minutes to complete your application. Fill out as much information as you can. You can start your application and then save it and come back later to finish it.

• After you answer all the questions, you will sign your application online. When it is sent in, you will get a confirmation number. Write this number down and keep it—you may need it later.

Success tips when applying for Virginia SNAP online

• To switch from English to Spanish, click ‘Translate’ at the top of the CommonHelp Home page and then click ‘Spanish’ in the drop-down menu.

• If you need technical assistance, contact the Enterprise Call Center at 1-855-635-4370

APPLY BY PHONE

Apply for SNAP over the phone by calling 1-855-635-4370 during normal business hours.

APPLY IN PERSON OR BY MAIL

Download and print the Combined Application for Benefits form:

• Application for Benefits (English)

• Application for Benefits (Spanish)

Mail or bring the completed form to your local social services office. Find an office near you.

Is everyone in your household age 60 or older?

If you answered yes, you may qualify for the Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP). This program uses a shorter application form. You may also get SNAP benefits for 36 months instead of the usual 12 months. When it’s time to renew, you will not need an interview.

[Check your ESAP eligibility on the CommonHelp website](https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/access/accessController?id=0.12087177090837875).

How can I get help with my Virginia SNAP application?

There are several ways to get help filling out your Virginia SNAP application, depending on where in the state you live:

• Contact your local VDSS office.

• If you live in Alexandria, call the Department of Community and Human Services at 1-703-746-5700 or email esperita.bullard@alexandriava.gov.

• If you live in the Greater Washington, D.C. area, call the Korean Community Service Center of Greater Washington (KCSC) at 1-703-354-6345 or email dchoi@kcscgw.org.

• If you live in Central Virginia, contact Feed More at 1-804-521-2500 or email info@feedmore.org.

• Visit a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC), if there’s one near where you live. See if there’s one in your area.

• Call our HelpLine at 1-800-794-6559 anytime Monday–Friday, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST to get free support.

What if I need food assistance right away?

You may be able to get Virginia SNAP benefits sooner (within 7 days from the date on your application) if you need food right now. You may qualify for expedited (faster) benefits if your household meets the following requirements:

• Your gross monthly income must be less than $150 and liquid resources $100 or less.

• Your monthly shelter bills must be higher than your household’s gross monthly income plus your liquid resources.

• Someone in your household must be a migrant or seasonal farm worker with little or no income and resources.

Need food today? Search for food banks in your area to find resources while you wait for your Virginia SNAP application to be processed.

How does SNAP work in Virginia?

SNAP helps you pay for groceries each month so you can stretch your budget and have more money for other important expenses like utility bills, medicine, and health care. If you qualify, your benefits are loaded onto a Virginia EBT card, which works like a debit card. You can use it at most grocery stores, convenience stores, superstores, farmers markets, and even online through Amazon.

The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) runs the SNAP program. Local VDSS offices can help you apply, manage your benefits, and answer questions along the way.

What is the SNAP application process like in Virginia?

Generally, here are the steps to apply for Virginia SNAP:

• Check your eligibility: Virginia Poverty Law Center offers a short eligibility screening questionnaire. Answer the questions to see if you may qualify for SNAP benefits.

• Fill out an application: You can apply for Virginia SNAP online, by phone, by mail, or in person. Most applications take about 30 to 45 minutes to complete. Even if you don’t have all your information right away, you should still submit the form with at least your name, address, and signature. If you qualify, your benefits may begin from the date you first apply.

• Have an interview:You must take part in a phone or face-to-face interview with a social services worker once your local VDSS office receives your application.

• Wait for a decision: Most Virginia SNAP applications are processed within 30 days from the date on your application. If you have an urgent need for food, you may be able to have your application processed faster.

• Receive your EBT card: If you’re approved for SNAP benefits, you’ll receive your new EBT card in the mail with a guide on how to use it.

While the idea of applying for SNAP may seem overwhelming, it’s not as complicated as you might think. And, you don’t have to apply all by yourself. If you need help, a friend, family member, or social services worker can assist you.

What happens after I apply for SNAP in Virginia?

After you apply, you’ll need to complete an interview with a VDSS case manager. Most SNAP applications are processed within 30 days, although some people may qualify for faster, expedited benefits within 7 days. Be sure to check your mail, email, and phone messages regularly so you don’t miss any updates or requests for information.

If you’re approved, you’ll receive a letter explaining how much you’ll get each month and how long your benefits will last. Most households receive SNAP benefits for 12 months. If everyone in your household is age 60 or older or has a disability and no one is working, benefits may last up to 24 months. People in the Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP) may receive benefits for up to 36 months. Benefits can start from the date you first applied.

What can I expect during my SNAP interview?

Don’t worry—the interview isn’t there to confuse you. It’s just a quick check of the information you already gave. Your VDSS case manager can also explain how SNAP works, answer your questions, and help if you’re having trouble getting documents.

During your SNAP interview, you may be asked questions such as:

• What is your full name and birthday?

• What is your Social Security number?

• Where do you live? (You can still qualify if you are houseless.)

• Are you a U.S. citizen? (You may still qualify if you are a noncitizen.)

• What is your monthly income?

• Do you pay utilities, such as an electric bill or cable TV bill?

• What other regular bills do you have?

It can help to practice answering the interview questions ahead of time—either out loud to yourself or with a trusted friend or family member. A little practice can make you feel calmer and more confident.

After everything is reviewed, you’ll get a letter in the mail with the decision. If you’re approved, it will explain how much you’ll get, when benefits start, and how the decision was made. If you’re not approved, the letter will explain why.

Other important tips to know

What if my Virginia SNAP application is denied?…