Applying for Public Assistance Benefits

A language interpreter for non-English speaking customers can be provided, if needed. For some programs you may not need a personal interview or the interview may be held over the telephone.

• You may bring others with you, or, in some cases, send someone in your place.
• During the interview, the entire application process will be explained to you.
• You are told of any missing information or documents you’ll need to bring in.
• Your application is processed beginning on the date the agency receives the information.
• A Human Services worker determines if you are eligible and notifies you.
• If eligible, you begin receiving benefits.
• Periodic reviews of your eligibility are made while you are receiving benefits.

• You may pick up an application at any Department of Family Services office Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m and 4:30 p.m., or call and ask for one to be sent to you.
• You may apply for Food Stamps on the same day you request an application.
• Eligibility must be decided and participation must begin within 30 days of application or 7 days if you are eligible for expedited (emergency) service.
• All household income and certain financial resources must be verified.
• A percentage of earned income is subtracted from the total income to compensate for work expenses.
• Maximum allowable housing costs and dependent care expenses are deducted.
• Net monthly income is determined based on these deductions.
• Net income and number of people in your household determines the amount you receive.
• Those who are 60 or over or who receive certain disability payments may be exempt from some of the above requirements.

• Cash on hand
• Stocks and bonds, including U. S. Savings Bonds
• Money in checking and savings accounts, certificates of deposit and/or shared accounts
• Property, including pleasure craft, such as boats and recreational vehicles. A car or truck counts differently depending on how it is used. The home you own is not included as a resource if you are living in it.

• Personal identification: driver’s license, Social Security card, etc.
• Proof of status, if alien
• Proof of residence: copy of lease, utility bills, driver’s license, etc.
• Income: check stubs and/or income tax return
• Resources: bank statement, and/or car registration
• Medical expenses: If over 60 years old or receiving certain disability payments, bring copies of bills
• Rent or mortgage expenses, such as bank statement or cancelled checks
• Utility expenses: copies of bills
• Social Security number for each person in the household.

You must always report any changes that could affect your eligibility for the programs you are enrolled in. Generally, these changes must be reported within 10 days. These could be changes in income, expenses, residence, number of people in the home, etc. Also, you must be willing to participate, when required, in Department of Family Services employment programs if you are unemployed or underemployed and able to work.

Other Important Issues:

Appeals: You may appeal to Virginia’s State Board of Social Services within 30 days (90 for Food Stamps) of receiving written notification of the local board’s decision to deny, grant, change, or discontinue your benefits.

Confidentiality: Information required or collected by the Department of Family Services is confidential and may not be released without your permission except for purposes of administering the programs.

Fraud: Anyone who willfully obtains or helps others obtain assistance which they are not entitled to, or receives assistance greater than that which they are entitled to, may be guilty of larceny, and upon conviction, may be punished accordingly.