The Public Assistance and Employment Services (PAES) division helps administer and determine eligibility for public benefit programs that support adults and families working towards financial stability. Many people may not realize that benefit programs like SNAP and Medicaid provide additional accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

Everyone goes through tough times, and you don’t have to do it alone. Learn about programs and services offered and how to apply. Many of these programs are open year-round, while others have specific application periods.

For resources for individuals with disabilities, visit Disability Rights and Resources.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps households buy food to ensure adults and families have nutritious meals.  

• Individuals with disabilities may be allowed to deduct more of their medical and shelter (housing) expenses to help increase their monthly benefit amount.    
• Increased household resource limits  
• Increased certification periods and reduced number of reporting requirements
• Exception from having to adhere to work requirements and having time limited benefits
• Access to the Home Delivered Meals Program that provides meals to adults who are homebound and are unable to prepare their own meals.   
   

Medicaid provides low-cost healthcare coverage for preventative services, behavioral and mental health, dental care, and more.  

• Reduced eligibility requirements for those receiving SSDI and/or SSI
• Exception from having to adhere to community engagement and work requirements
• Transportation services when you do not have another way to get to appointments for Medicaid services
• Access to Long Term Support and Services (LTSS) that provides services through nursing facilities or community-based settings  
• The CCC Plus Waiver provides community-based LTSS, such as nursing, respite, assistive technology and environmental modifications, to eligible individuals.   
• Financial Assistance for individuals entering or already in certain licensed or approved facilities that accept auxiliary grant payments.
• Access to waivers from the Community Services Board that can assist with wheelchair ramps and other supports for extracurricular activities. Call (703) 383-8500 to learn more.  
   

Energy Assistance provides financial assistance for cooling and heating needs to eligible households.  

• Cooling Assistance helps eligible residents pay their electric utility bill, security deposit and/or with cooling equipment related needs. Applications accepted June 15- August 15.
• Fuel Assistance for help with primary heat utility bill (October 13- November 13)
• Crisis Assistance for help with a heating emergency (Nov 1- March 15) and/or payment of a heat utility bill or purchase of home heating fuel (January 1-March 15)
   

Employment Services provides workforce development resources and employment services to job seekers throughout the Northern Virginia region. 

• Four workforce centers that are open and accessible to all and equipped with adaptive technology to support your job search
• Training, skill-building, and employment opportunities to help you reach your career goals  

Referrals to specialized employment services and programs, including:

• Ticket to Work career development program (for SSDI and/or SSI participants)
• Virginia Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS)
• Service Source
• The AbilityOne Program helps individuals who are blind or have significant disabilities find employment with federal agencies

Make a virtual or in-person appointment to learn more about these services and programs.