SNAP (Food Stamps)

Program Description

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides financial assistance to households with low income to buy food.

• Benefits are provided through the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) debit card that can be used at any retail store or food vendor authorized by the USDA.
• The EBT debit card is credited monthly with the food stamp benefit, which is based on income and household size.
• An application with name, signature and date starts the application process. Contact information is also necessary.
• SNAP information line: 703-228-1324.
• Public Charge: Currently, participation in SNAP will not impact public charge determinations (TBD). Learn more about this: English | Spanish

Eligibility

• Identification necessary
• Arlington Resident
• U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant
• Social security number for all eligible household members or proof of application before certification
• A face-to-face interview may be required, however a phone interview in most situations is adequate
• Resource levels usually do not apply for this program
• Each participant is assessed for time-limited benefits

SNAP Household Maximum Monthly Income Limits

Expires September 30, 2026

NOTE: some cases may be screened under 130% FPL income levels instead of the 200% FPL income levels.

Separate income limits apply to households with a member over 60 years of age or who is disabled.

Household Maximum Monthly Income Limits (over 60 or disabled)

How to Apply

• Online
  • Go to CommonHelp to register, apply for assistance, renew existing benefits, or report changes in your situation (https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/access/)

OR

• Apply in person or mail your application to: 
  Bureau of Assistance Programs
  2100 Washington Blvd., 1st Floor
  Arlington, VA 22204

OR

• Call the Arlington Department of Human Services 703-228-1350 to have an application mailed to your home.
• Download an application in English (PDF) or en Español (PDF).
• Fax completed application to 703-228-1011.

Anyone interested in the SNAP program must, by law, be told the following:

• You may obtain an application at our office or we will mail one to you the same (business) day of the request.
• You are encouraged to file an application the same day you contact the agency.
• You may return the application to the agency either by mail, in person, via fax, or electronically to the extent that the agency can receive the application.
• The processing time and amount of benefits you will receive, if your household is eligible, will depend on the application date.
• Benefits the first month are prorated.
• Separate rules exist for the SNAP Program and other programs, so you should apply even if other programs have limitations on the receipt of benefits.

Above information also available on the SNAP line at (703) 228-1324.

• Agency may be blind tested to ensure we provide client with the above information.
• An application received outside of 2100 Washington Blvd., 1st Floor, must be faxed immediately to 703-228-1011.
• If applicant is homeless, application and program information can be obtained at the reception desk at 2100 Washington Blvd., 1st Floor, for pick up.

Documents Required

• Complete Department of Social Services Application for Benefits
• Verification of citizenship or eligible immigrant status
• Proof of identity
• Verification of residency
• Verification of all household income
• Verification of household assets
• Verification of certain monthly expenses is required as of 10/1/2025
• Social Security number or proof of application for all members in household

Anti-Discrimination Policy

The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) and local social services offices, in accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) policy is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, religion or political beliefs. The VDSS Office for Civil Rights (OCR) works to ensure civil rights by:

1. Upholding equal access and opportunity to participate in social service programs
2. Investigating allegations of discrimination
3. Conducting compliance reviews of local socials service offices
4. Providing guidelines and resources to both the general public and to VDSS local offices

Guidance & Procedures:

1. Declaracion de no discriminacion (PDF)
2. Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)
3. How to File a Civil Rights Complaint (USDA page)
4. Legal Authorities (PDF)

Additional Food Assistance Resources

• Food Assistance and Free Food Resources in Arlington: A comprehensive list of resources available to community members including food pantries, meals on wheels, public assistance programs and more.
  • Food Assistance Flyer | English & Spanish(PDF, 531KB)