State Treasuries are currently holding over $58 Billion in unclaimed assets.
This includes uncashed checks, forgotten savings accounts, utility deposits, and tax refunds. 1 in 7 Americans has money waiting to be claimed. Is your name on the list?
Navigating the social safety net in Virginia can be complex, but understanding the system is the first step toward stability. The Commonwealth uses a state-supervised, locally-administered model. This means while the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) sets the rules, your local city or county agency handles your case.
Key Takeaways
- One-Stop Application: The CommonHelp portal allows you to apply for food, cash, medical, and child care assistance in a single streamlined process.
- SNAP Updates: New income limits are effective October 1, 2025. Able-bodied adults aged 18-54 now face work requirements, with exceptions for veterans and youth leaving foster care.
- Medical Coverage: Cardinal Care combines Medicaid and FAMIS into one system. Children now receive 12 months of continuous coverage regardless of family income fluctuations.
- Child Care Expansion: Eligibility for the Child Care Subsidy Program has expanded to 85% of the State Median Income, helping more working families afford quality care.
- Seasonal Energy Aid: Applications for heating and cooling assistance are only accepted during strict seasonal windows. Missing these dates often results in denial.
Most major benefit programs are now integrated. When you enter your information into the state system, it checks your eligibility for multiple programs simultaneously. This approach reduces paperwork and helps ensure you receive all the support you qualify for.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly funds for grocery purchases. Benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card at authorized retailers.
Income Eligibility Standards (2025-2026)
Most households must pass two income tests: Gross Income (before taxes) and Net Income (after deductions).
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limit (130% FPL) | Net Monthly Income Limit (100% FPL) |
| 1 | $1,696 | $1,305 |
| 2 | $2,292 | $1,763 |
| 3 | $2,888 | $2,221 |
| 4 | $3,483 | $2,680 |
| Each Additional | +$596 | +$459 |
Maximize Your Deductions You can lower your "Net Income" to qualify for more benefits by claiming allowable deductions:
Work Requirements Adults aged 18 to 54 who are fit for work and have no dependents are classified as Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs).
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) provides temporary cash support to low-income families with children. The program focuses on moving recipients into the workforce through the Virginia Initiative for Education and Work (VIEW).
Benefit Amounts by Location Virginia adjusts payments based on the cost of living in your area. Localities are divided into Groups:
Recent budgets have mandated annual increases to these payments. For a family of three in a Group III locality, the standard payment has risen to approximately $508 per month.
Program Rules
Virginia has consolidated its Medicaid and FAMIS programs under the Cardinal Care brand. This unifies coverage for children, pregnant individuals, and adults into one system.
Coverage Categories
Continuous Coverage for Children A major policy improvement ensures stability for kids. Once a child is enrolled in Cardinal Care, they remain covered for 12 months continuous eligibility, even if your family’s income changes during that year.
The Virginia Department of Social Services manages EAP to help low-income households with heating and cooling costs. This program is seasonal, so apply as soon as the window opens.
Income Guidelines Eligibility is based on income and household size. You may qualify if your income is less than 60% of the State Median Income (SMI) or 150% of the FPL, whichever is higher [],.
Assistance Types & Dates
Recent changes have made child care significantly more affordable for working families. The state has shifted away from strict poverty limits to a broader income model.
New Eligibility Thresholds Families with young children (not yet in kindergarten) can now qualify with income up to 85% of the State Median Income (SMI).
Modernized Systems The state has replaced the old swipe-card system with Child Care PASS, a mobile-friendly check-in system. This streamlines attendance tracking for both parents and providers.
Unemployment Insurance (UI) provides temporary income if you lose your job through no fault of your own.
How to Apply: CommonHelp
The most efficient way to access these benefits is through the CommonHelp portal.
Comparison of Major Programs
| Program | Primary Goal | Key Income Limit (approx.) | Application Window |
| SNAP | Food Security | 130% FPL (Gross) | Year-Round |
| TANF | Cash / Work Support | Varies by Locality | Year-Round |
| Medicaid | Health Insurance | 138% FPL (Adults) | Year-Round |
| Fuel Assistance | Heating Costs | 60% SMI or 150% FPL | Oct - Nov |
| Child Care | Work Support | 85% SMI | Year-Round |
A single-person household generally qualifies for Virginia SNAP with a gross monthly income under $1,696. Larger families can add approximately $596 to this limit for each additional household member to determine their eligibility.
Applications for Fuel Assistance are accepted from the second Tuesday in October through the second Friday in November, while Crisis Assistance for emergencies runs from November 1 to March 15. Cooling Assistance for summer electricity bills has a strict application window from June 15 to August 15 annually.
Virginia Medicaid now covers adults ages 19-64 earning up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (approximately $20,800 annually for an individual). This expansion provides full medical benefits, including prescriptions and doctor visits, without requiring a disability or dependent children.
This program provides a one-time $120 grocery benefit per eligible school-age child to help families purchase food during the summer break. Children receiving SNAP, TANF, or income-based Medicaid are typically enrolled automatically, while others must apply during the spring enrollment period.
The CommonHelp.virginia.gov portal allows residents to submit a single application for SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, and Energy Assistance all at once. Registered users can also check their application status and renew existing benefits online without visiting a local social services office.
Navigating the path to rental assistance Memphis TN requires acting quickly during specific monthly application windows to stay ahead of eviction notices. Local programs like MIFA and the Shelby County CSA provide a lifeline for families who can prove a sudden financial hardship or loss of income.
Stay connected without the burden of monthly bills. Discover how Alabama residents can access government-supported phone programs designed to ensure everyone has essential communication, opening doors to employment, education, and vital services. Read on to unlock the details of this incredible opportunity and see if you qualify for a free government phone in Alabama.
Unlock the door to stable and affordable housing with the Housing Choice Voucher Program, a cornerstone of community support that empowers families to thrive. Discover how this vital initiative bridges the gap between income and housing costs, creating opportunities for a brighter future.