Program Eligibility

The Department determines eligibility for the following programs: 

• Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (Formerly AFDC)
• Auxiliary Grants
• General Relief for Unrelated Children
• Heating and Cooling Assistance
• Medical Assistance (Medicaid)
• SNAP (Food Stamps)

For detailed information on any of these programs, you may refer to the Virginia Department of Social Services website or CommonHelp.

CommonHelp

CommonHelp is a web-based app that will allow Virginians to screen for eligibility and report changes: 

• Social Services benefits 
• Services
• Apply for benefits 
• Complete renewals 
• Check the status of their benefits 
• Report  a change 

Access is available 24/7.

FCC Emergency Broadband Benefit Program

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced that the $3.2 billion Emergency Broadband Benefit Program launched on May 12. The program provides a $50/month ($75/month on tribal lands) subsidy for the cost of internet service for select individuals for 6 months. The list of Virginia's participating broadband providers can be found - here. Eligible households can sign up for the program directly through their broadband provider or online.  For more information and to sign up, visit the program website here. 

Office Hours - Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 pm 

You may file an application for Benefit Programs using the following methods: 

• In person anytime during the above office hours 
• Online at www.commonhelp.virginia.gov
• Calling 1-855-635-4370 (All Programs)
• Calling 1-855-242-8282 (Healthcare, Medicaid, Information)
• Calling 1-833-5CALLVA (833-522-5582) Virginia 1 Benefits

Interviews are required for applications submitted for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Aide to Needy Families (TANF). All interviews will be scheduled and conducted via telephone unless a face to face interview is requested. 

*NOTE* Interviews are being waved temporarily due to the "Public Health Emergency"