How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Virginia

You can apply for SNAP benefits in Virginia online, in person, or by mail. Each method ensures your application is submitted for review.

Apply Online

Applying online is the fastest method. You can complete the form and upload your documents from home through Virginia's official web portal, which streamlines the entire process and saves you a trip to an office.

To apply online, go to the Virginia Department of Social Services website. You will need to create an account to begin. Be ready to provide details about your household, income, and expenses, and upload your documents.

Apply In-Person

If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply in person. Staff at your local social services office can guide you through the application and answer any questions you might have about the process or your eligibility.

You must apply in the county or city where you live. Visit your local Department of Social Services office to get an application. A staff member can help you fill it out and conduct an interview.

Apply By Mail

For those who prefer a paper-based method, you can mail your application. This allows you to complete the form at your own pace before sending it to the correct office for processing and review.

You can download an application from the Virginia DSS SNAP page. After printing and filling out the form, mail it to your local social services office. Remember to include copies of all required documents.

How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Virginia

For help with your EBT card, you can call the Virginia EBT Customer Service Help Desk. They offer the following support:

• Phone Number: 1-866-281-2448

• Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

• Services: General benefit questions, balance inquiries, PIN changes, and card replacement.

See Virginia EBT Customer Service Contacts

How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Virginia

Now that you're approved for SNAP, let's go over how to use your benefits, what you can buy, and where.

What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?

Your EBT card, which stands for Electronic Benefits Transfer, is how you'll receive your monthly SNAP funds. Think of it just like a debit card. The card is loaded with your benefits each month, and you can use it to buy groceries at authorized stores.

Using your EBT card is simple. At checkout, you just swipe the card and enter your four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). The process is nearly identical to using a regular debit card for any other purchase.

What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?

Your SNAP benefits are designed to help you buy groceries for your household. You can use your EBT card to purchase most food items that you take home to prepare, including:

• Fruits and vegetables

• Meat, poultry, and fish

• Dairy products

• Breads and cereals

• Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages

• Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat

It's also important to know what you cannot buy with your benefits. SNAP funds cannot be used for non-food items or certain prepared foods. Ineligible items include:

• Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco

• Vitamins, medicines, and supplements

• Live animals (with some exceptions)

• Hot foods sold to be eaten in the store

• Non-food items like pet food, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics

How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits

Managing your SNAP benefits helps you make the most of your monthly food budget. This means knowing your balance and deposit dates.

EBT Deposit Schedule in Virginia

In Virginia, your SNAP benefits are deposited between the 1st and 7th of each month. The exact date depends on the last digit of your case number, which helps you plan your grocery shopping.

You can find your specific payment date in our Virginia deposit schedule.

See Virginia EBT deposit schedule for 2025

How to Check Your EBT Card Balance

You have several ways to check your EBT balance. You can use the ConnectEBT online portal, the Benny app, or call the customer service number on the back of your card.

Your balance also appears on store receipts after a purchase. For cash benefits, you can check your balance at an ATM.

You can check out our guide covering each method on how to check EBT balance.

Check Your Virginia EBT Balance

Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time. It also gives you cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco.

To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you shop, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more from your EBT benefits.