Virginia SNAP

Virginia SNAP helps low-income individuals and families afford the food they need for a nutritionally adequate diet by providing monthly food assistance benefits.

The law requires all able-bodied recipients ages 18—64 without dependents to meet special work requirements. Otherwise, receipt of benefits is limited to no more than 3 months within a 36-month period.

Those who have their benefits time-limited may be able to extend their SNAP benefits by participating in the SNAP Employment and Training (E&T) program, where available .

FAQ

Who qualifies for food stamps in Virginia?

In order to qualify for food stamps in Virginia, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Live in Virginia
Be a US Citizen or a lawful permanent resident
Show proof of identity
Meet income limits and other financial eligibility rules

What is the income limit for SNAP in Virginia?

Most families in Virginia with gross income up to 200% of the federal poverty level, or about $4,442 a month for a family of three, may qualify for food stamps.

There is no asset test required for SNAP eligibility in Virginia.

Household Size	100%Net Income	200%Gross Income
1	$1,304	$2,608
2	$1,763	$3,525
3	$2,221	$4,442
4	$2,679	$5,358
5	$3,138	$6,275
6	$3,596	$7,192
7	$4,054	$8,108
8	$4,513	$9,025

Effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. Gross income limit applies to most households, except when at least one member is age 60 or older or receives disability income; in these cases, only the net income test applies.

Virginians, are you eligible for SNAP?

Find out if you may qualify and get an estimated amount of benefits you could receive.

How is SNAP benefits calculated in Virginia?

SNAP benefits are calculated based on a variety of factors, including the household size, income and allowable deductions. For example, a family of three with no income in Virginia may receive up to $785 in monthly SNAP benefits.

Household Size	SNAP Benefits
1	$298
2	$546
3	$785
4	$994
5	$1,183
6	$1,421
7	$1,571
8	$1,789

The actual SNAP benefit amounts are based on a household’s net income with a general rule that an increase of $100 in net income results in a reduction of $30 in benefits. Use our SNAP calculator to estimate the amount of benefits you can expect to receive.

Eligible SNAP participants are issued a “Virginia EBT Card” used to make food purchases at grocery stores and supermarkets, in place of paper food stamp coupons.

How do I apply for SNAP in Virginia?

Applications may be made either online through CommonHelp or in person at your local DSS office by submitting a signed “Application for Benefits”. An interview will be arranged to determine your eligibility and qualify you for SNAP assistance.

Virginia Department of Social Services
Customer Service Center
(800) 552-3431

What documents do I need to apply for SNAP in Virginia?

When you apply for SNAP, you may be asked to provide the following documents:

A valid photo ID
A valid Social Security Number
Proof of residency (where you live)
Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status
Proof of earned and unearned income
Proof of resources or assets (if applicable)
Any additional documents needed to verify your household’s situation

How long does it take to get approved for SNAP in Virginia?

SNAP office must make its decision of a person’s eligibility within 30 days or 7 days, if expedited. The 30-day (or 7-day if expedited) usually begins the day after the application is received at the office.