Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Click Here for Additional Resources

EBT/P-EBT SCAM NOTICE

Help protect yourself against scam attempts. Never provide your personal information, including your EBT or P-EBT pin, to any unsolicited source. Learn more.

Important Changes to Benefit Programs

The Consolidated Appropriations Act 2023 law recently passed by Congress ends Emergency Allotments after the February 2023 issuance. SNAP Emergency Allotments were a temporary change to SNAP benefits that began in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 public health emergency. In March 2023, all SNAP households' benefits will return to normal amounts, without the additional allotment benefits. Learn more.

Apply Online Using CommonHelp

DID YOU KNOW
COLLEGE STUDENTS CAN
QUALIFY FOR SNAP?

CLICK TO LEARN MORE

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can be used like cash to buy eligible food items from authorized retailers. Authorized retailers will display either the Quest logo or a picture of a Virginia EBT card.

A SNAP account is established for eligible households and automatic deposits are made into the account each month. To access the account, they will also receive an EBT Card, which will debit the account each time eligible food items are purchased. A secret Personal Identification Number (PIN) is required to use the card.

Eligibility Income Limits

SNAP Income Eligibility Limits (PDF)

Guidance & Procedures

Screening for Eligibility & Applying

Option 1: Screen for eligibility and/or apply online through CommonHelp
Option 2: Bypass eligibility screening and submit an application manually. Fill out an "Application for Benefits" from the forms section on this page and return it to your local department of social services.

Please note the following:

The USDA has temporarily expanded SNAP eligibility for students enrolled at least part-time in a higher education institution.

A manual application cannot be processed and is not considered complete until it is signed and received by your local department.

An interview will be required unless you meet the conditions for a waiver . Proof of identity (driver's license or picture I.D.), residence, income, resource and shelter expenses will be required.

Applications for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or General Relief, are considered an application for SNAP, unless you request otherwise.

If all members have applied for or get Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you may also apply for SNAP at the local Social Security office.