In 2024 SNAP Virginia provides crucial support to low-income individuals and families in Virginia struggling to afford basic needs like food. Benefits are issued monthly on electronic cards that can be used to purchase eligible food items at authorized retailers. SNAP aims to alleviate hunger and improve nutrition and health among Virginia’s most vulnerable residents.
In 2022, SNAP aided over 682,000 Virginia residents. Households must meet certain eligibility requirements related to income, assets, expenses, and other criteria. Benefit amounts depend on household size, income, and expenses. The average SNAP recipient in Virginia receives $234per month.
This article will cover SNAP in Virginia for 2024, including:
- SNAP eligibility requirements
- How to calculate potential benefit amount
- How to apply and use SNAP benefits
- Income limits
- Allowable deductions and expenses
- Virginia policies and recertification
- SNAP restrictions and ineligible items
- Resources for more information
Knowing SNAP rules and using available resources can help Virginia households access vital food assistance.
SNAP Virginia Eligibility 2024
The eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Virginia is determined by three tests: the Gross Income, the Net Income, and the Asset tests. The following table provides an overview of the income limits for SNAP in Virginia for the period of October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024:
- Residency – Applicants must live in Virginia.
- Citizenship – Recipients must be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens.
- Work/Training Requirements – Able-bodied adults ages 18-49 must work at least 20 hours per week or participate in employment training. Some exceptions apply.
| Test | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Gross Income Test | The gross monthly income limit for a household of one is $1,215, for a household of two is $1,644, for a household of three is $2,072, and for a household of four is $2,500. The income limits are higher for households with more members. |
| Net Income Test | The net income limits for SNAP benefits in Virginia are not explicitly stated, but net income is calculated by subtracting deductions from gross income. Deductions can include expenses such as child support payments, medical expenses, and shelter-related expenses like rent and utilities. |
| Asset Test | There is no asset limit in Virginia for SNAP benefits. However, if the household has a member who is 60 or older or has a disability and did not meet the Gross Income test, there is an asset limit of $4,250. |
It’s important to note that the net income test determines the amount of SNAP benefits all eligible households will receive. While categorically eligible households, excluding broad-based categorical eligibility, do not have to meet either the gross or net income eligibility standards, the net income limit will determine entitlement to an allotment even for these households.
SNAP Income Limits Virginia 2024
| Household Size | Maximum Gross Monthly Income (Oct. 1, 2023 – Sept. 30, 2024) | Maximum Gross Yearly Income (Oct. 1, 2023 – Sept. 30, 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,215 | $14,580 |
| 2 | $1,644 | $19,728 |
| 3 | $2,072 | $24,864 |
| 4 | $2,500 | $30,000 |
| 5 | $2,925 | $35,100 |
| 6 | $3,350 | $40,200 |
| 7 | $3,775 | $45,300 |
| 8 | $4,199 | $50,388 |
The gross monthly income limits for SNAP benefits in Virginia, effective from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, are as follows:
- For a household of one, the maximum gross monthly income is $1,215, and the maximum gross yearly income is $14,580.
- For a household of two, the maximum gross monthly income is $1,644, and the maximum gross yearly income is $19,728.
- For a household of three, the maximum gross monthly income is $2,072, and the maximum gross yearly income is $24,864.
- For a household of four, the maximum gross monthly income is $2,500, and the maximum gross yearly income is $30,000.
- For a household of five, the maximum gross monthly income is $2,925, and the maximum gross yearly income is $35,100.
- For a household of six, the maximum gross monthly income is $3,350, and the maximum gross yearly income is $40,200.
- For a household of seven, the maximum gross monthly income is $3,775, and the maximum gross yearly income is $45,300.
- For a household of eight, the maximum gross monthly income is $4,199, and the maximum gross yearly income is $50,388.
These income limits are based on 130 percent of the poverty level for the respective household sizes.
Net Income Limits SNAP Virginia 2024
| Household Size | Net Income Limit (Monthly) | Net Income Limit (Yearly) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $766 | $9,200 |
| 2 | $1,149 | $13,788 |
| 3 | $1,532 | $18,392 |
| 4 | $1,915 | $23,000 |
| 5 | $2,298 | $27,576 |
| 6 | $2,681 | $32,172 |
| 7 | $3,064 | $36,768 |
| 8 | $3,447 | $41,364 |
Maximum SNAP Benefits in Virginia 2024
To calculate potential benefit amount SNAP Virginia 2024 you can use SNAP Eligibility Calculator provided by the Virginia Poverty Law Center.
Starting October 1, 2023, all Virginia SNAP upplemental Nutrition Assistance Program participants will see an increase in their benefits due to the United States Department of Agriculture’s recent update to the Thrifty Food Plan methodology, the first since 1975. SNAP benefits are based on the Thrifty Food Plan to estimate the cost of groceries needed to provide a healthy diet for a family of four. The maximum SNAP benefit amounts in Virginia for 2024 are as follows:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit | Maximum Yearly Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $234 | $2,808 |
| 2 | $430 | $5,160 |
| 3 | $616 | $7,392 |
| 4 | $782 | $9,384 |
| 5 | $929 | $11,148 |
| 6 | $1,114 | $13,368 |
| 7 | $1,232 | $14,784 |
| 8 | $1,408 | $16,896 |
| Each additional member | $176 | $2,112 |
These maximum benefit amounts are effective from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, and are subject to change based on household income and other factors.
Allowable Deductions from Income for SNAP Virginia 2024
The allowable deductions from income for SNAP benefits in Virginia for the period of October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024, are as follows:
- Standard Deduction: Each household is entitled to a standard deduction that is dependent on the number of eligible household members. The standard deduction for 1-3 members is $198, for 4 members is $208, for 5 members is $244, and for 6+ members is $279.
- Earned Income Deduction: Each household with earned income will receive a 20% deduction of gross income earnings. For example, if a household has $2,000 of gross income, the earned income deduction would be 20% of $2,000, which is $400.
- Excess Shelter Deduction: Households can receive a deduction for shelter-related expenses such as rent and utilities. The deduction is the amount that total shelter expenses exceed a percentage of household income, and is limited to a maximum amount if the household does not contain a member who is 60 or older or has a disability. Shelter deductions only apply for the amount that total shelter expenses exceed a percentage of household income. The maximum shelter deduction for some households is limited.
- Child Support Payments: Court-ordered child support payments are excluded from gross income, reducing both gross and net income.
- Standard Medical Deduction: Monthly out-of-pocket medical expenses for household members who are 60 or older or have a disability can be deducted. The full amount of expenses (minus $35) can be deducted with verification. Alternatively, if medical expenses are over $35, the standard medical deduction amount of $200 can be used without needing to verify all expenses.
- Utility Allowances: Households can receive a deduction for utility expenses. If a household qualifies for multiple allowances, the highest allowance should be chosen. Heating and Cooling allowances can be claimed if a household pays utility bills for heating and cooling or receives over $20 in heating assistance from LIHEAP. Single Utilities allowances can be claimed if a household pays for the utility.
It’s important to note that these deductions are subject to change based on household income and other factors.
How to Apply for SNAP in Virginia
To apply for SNAP benefits in Virginia, follow these steps:
- Review Eligibility – Confirm your household meets the SNAP eligibility criteria outlined above. Gather required documents (proof of identity, income, expenses, etc.).
- Apply Online – Apply for SNAP Virginia online Submit an online application through CommonHelp or fill out the application form (Form 032-03-0724-35).
- Interview – Complete an interview with a VDSS caseworker, either in-person or over the phone. Provide required documents.
- Decisions & Benefits – The VDSS will determine eligibility within 30 days. If approved, SNAP benefits will be issued via EBT card within 7 days.
- Reporting Changes – Promptly report any changes in household circumstances like income, address, or size. This can affect eligibility and benefit amount.
- Recertification – Virginia requires recertification every 12 months. Provide updated information to continue receiving benefits.
Applying promptly can help households access SNAP food assistance sooner, especially if facing financial hardship or food insecurity.
Using SNAP Benefits in Virginia
SNAP benefits are electronically deposited each month into a household’s EBT card account. This card can be used to purchase eligible food items from SNAP authorized retailers, including most major supermarkets and grocery stores.
Benefits must be used within 1 year of issuance. The EBT card works just like a debit card. Recipients enter a pin to make food purchases. Change is provided for any unused SNAP balance after a transaction.
Purchases are limited to food for home consumption, such as:
- Fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy, eggs, grains
- Snacks, sodas, non-alcoholic beverages
- Seeds and plants to grow food (no prepared/hot foods)
The EBT card cannot be used to purchase ineligible items like alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, medicine, pet food, cleaning supplies, paper products, or prepared/hot foods.
SNAP benefits provide crucial food assistance, helping ensure access to nutrition for Virginia’s low-income households. Proper use of benefits is important.
SNAP Virginia Phone Number Contact Details
To apply for SNAP benefits in Virginia, individuals can use the following contact details:
- Phone Number: Individuals interested in the Virginia SNAP program can apply via phone by calling the toll-free number: 1-800-552-3431.
- Online Application: Applicants can also apply online through the Virginia CommonHelp website, which allows for the submission of one application for multiple Department of Social Services programs, including SNAP, Medical Assistance, and Energy Assistance.
- Application Assistance: For additional help with the application process, individuals can call the SNAP Hotline at 1-800-552-3431 or email commonhelp@dss.virginia.gov. They can also contact their local Department of Social Services office for in-person assistance.
These channels provide individuals with various options to apply for SNAP benefits and receive assistance throughout the application process.
FAQs
Gross Income Limits:
1 person: $1,215 per month
2 people: $1,644 per month
3 people: $2,072 per month
4 people: $2,500 per month
5 people: $2,915 per month
6 people: $3,325 per month
Each additional person: $429 per month
Net Income Limits:
1 person: $1,000 per month
2 people: $1,350 per month
3 people: $1,699 per month
4 people: $2,048 per month
5 people: $2,397 per month
6 people: $2,746 per month
Each additional person: $399 per month
Highest Income to Qualify for SNAP
The highest income to qualify for SNAP in Virginia is $2,915 per month for a household of 5 people
SNAP benefits can be used to buy any food for the household, such as:
Food or food products meant to be eaten by people
Vegetable seeds and food-producing plants, roots, and trees for the family to eat
Baby formula, diabetic, and diet foods
Edible items used in preparing or preserving food, such as spices and herbs, pectin, and shortening
Water and ice labeled for human consumption