View full version of website

Benefits Programs

To be eligible for most programs, you must:

  • Live in Virginia
  • Be a U.S. citizen or meet certain requirements if you are an immigrant
  • Apply at the agency that serves the city or county where you live
  • Meet specific requirements of each program for which you are applying
  • Apply for other benefits that you may be entitled to receive, such as Social Security, Worker's or Unemployment   compensation

Before we can determine if you are eligible, some of the information you give must be verified.

Depending on the program, eligibility and the amount of benefits may be based on:

  • Your income
  • The number of people in the family
  • Certain household expenses

As soon as a decision about your application is made, we will send you a written notice. This notice will tell you if you are eligible and the amount of benefits you may receive.

RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • You must give correct information
  • You must cooperate
  • You must report changes that occur in your situation. Your worker will explain what needs to be reported
  • You may appeal decisions or actions if you are dissatisfied
  • You may review your case record during the agency's business hours
  • You may review program regulations and manuals during the agency's normal business hours. Manuals are also available online at www.dss.virginia.gov.

AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE

If you would like someone else to act on your behalf, you may select a trusted friend, relative or neighbor to be your representative. The representative may:

  • Apply for benefits for you
  • Receive your notices and correspondence
  • Use benefits on your behalf

You may name a representative on the application form. If you want to name an authorized representative at any time after you have submitted your application, write a note for that person to take to the local social services department. In the note:

  • List the name, address and phone number of the person you are naming
  • List the duties you want that person to perform
  • Sign and date the note

HOW TO APPLY FOR ASSISTANCE

  1. Complete an application
    • Pick up an application any time during office hours at your local department of social services (LDSS)
    • Ask the LDSS to mail an application to you, OR
    • Print a copy of the application and fill it in off the internet at: http://www.dss.virginia.gov/form/index.cgi
  2. File the application
    • Leave the application at the LDSS, OR
    • Mail or fax the application to your LDSS
    • Apply online for SNAP,TANF, Medicaid, or Energy Assistance benefits at www.commonhelp.virginia.gov
    • Apply online for Adult Medical Assistance (Medicaid) at www.dss.virginia.gov

Depending on the type of assistance you are requesting, you may need to be interviewed.

For more information, please contact the Richmond County Department of Social Services at (804) 333-4088.