Assistance programs in Virginia
Explore public benefits and assistance resources by the kind of help you need. Agencies decide eligibility and availability.
Find programs for your situationFood assistance
Virginia SNAP (Food Assistance)
Virginia SNAP helps approved households buy eligible food using EBT. Local DSS determines the household benefit.
Virginia WIC
Virginia WIC provides food benefits, nutrition education and breastfeeding support. A local clinic reviews eligibility and nutritional needs.
Housing assistance
Virginia Legal Aid (VaLegalAid / Virginia Law Help)
Virginia Law Help offers civil legal information, self-help tools and a route to local legal aid.
Utility assistance
Weatherization Assistance Program (Virginia)
Virginia weatherization provides approved home energy improvements through local nonprofit providers. It does not pay utility bills.
Virginia Energy Assistance Program (Fuel, Crisis & Cooling)
Virginia Energy Assistance has separate fuel, crisis and cooling components. Each has its own application window and conditions.
Health coverage
Virginia Medicaid (Cardinal Care) & FAMIS
Virginia Cardinal Care and FAMIS provide health coverage through qualifying Medicaid and children’s coverage categories. Apply for a full eligibility review.
Cash and income support
Unemployment Insurance (Virginia)
Virginia unemployment insurance provides temporary support after qualifying unemployment. VEC reviews monetary, separation and weekly eligibility.
Virginia TANF (Cash Assistance)
Virginia TANF offers temporary monthly support to eligible families with children. Local DSS reviews the household and its participation requirements.
Virginia Earned Income Tax Credit
Virginia offers alternative income-based tax credits. Eligible filers should compare them and claim only the option allowed by the instructions.
Additional support
211 Virginia
211 Virginia connects residents with local housing, food, health and community services. Check current live assistance hours before calling.
Program names come from our existing directory. Funding and rules can change; confirm details with the administering agency before applying.