Need help buying food? Apply for SNAP today. 

• Apply online through CommonHelp 

• Call: 833-522-5582

• Visit your Local Department of Social Services

  • Versions of the application are available below

    • Application for Benefits (English)

    • Application for Benefits (Spanish)

About SNAP 

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly benefits to help lower-income individuals and families buy healthy food. Benefits are issued to a SNAP account and accessed with an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. 

EBT cards work like debit cards—just swipe and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN) at checkout. Authorized retailers display a “We Welcome SNAP EBT Customers” poster. 

SNAP Update for VaCAP Customers 

Customers who receive SNAP benefits through VaCAP (Virginia Combined Application Project) will have their cases moved to and evaluated through the Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP) at their next recertification. VaCAP is ending effective June 1, 2026. 

This means a different way of how VaCAP customers cases are handled.  

What Is Staying the Same 

• You may still get SNAP benefits.  

• Your certification period can still be up to three years (36 months).  

What Is Changing 

• A benefit programs specialist may need to speak with you. 

• Your SNAP allotment will now be based on your income and allowable expenses, so your benefit will NO LONGER be a fixed amount.  

• You will be required to provide additional information at your next recertification to continue receiving SNAP benefits, including but not limited to: 

• • Income and shelter and medical expenses. 

• • All individuals staying in your home.  

• • If someone in your household is working.  

• • If you have lottery or gambling winnings of $4,500 or more. 

• Following your recertification, you must report any updates to the information listed above. 

Questions? Contact your local department of social services office.