DSS Frequently Asked Questions during COVID-19 closure
Department of Social Services (DSS)
Frequently Asked Questions
Updated: June 8, 2020
Updated: June 8, 2020
How can I apply for benefits?
Call: 1-855-635-4370
Fax a paper application to: 804-646-7018
Drop Box at Marshall Plaza (900 E. Marshall Street)
Drop Box at Southside Plaza (4100 Hull Street)
How can I find out the status of my benefits application (SNAP, TANF, and MEDICAID)?
Call: 1-855-635-4370
How can I get a replacement EBT Card if my card is lost, stolen or damaged?
Call: 1-866-281-2448
(Toll-free, 24 Hour Customer Service Hotline)
How do I know if I am eligible to receive the Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) benefits?
If you believe there are eligible students in your household but you do not receive P-EBT by the middle of June, call (804) 726-7000
How can I report child abuse/neglect or elder abuse?
Call to report child abuse: 804-646-0438
(After Hours: 1-800-552-7096)
Call to report elder abuse: 804-646-7405
(After Hours: 1-888-832-3858)
Who is my worker?
Call: 3-1-1 or 804-646-7212
Where can I find additional resources during the COVID19 Pandemic?
RVA Strong: https://www.rvastrong.org
Are Emergency SNAP benefits going to be issued?
Yes. Virginia will issue emergency allotments to households in June. The emergency benefits will allow the household’s current monthly allotment to increase to the maximum allotment for a household of that size.
Will there be an increase in the SNAP benefits to the current SNAP caseload during the COVID-19 public emergency?
Yes. Virginia were issued emergency allotments to households in March, April and May and will issued again on June 17. The emergency benefits will allow the household’s current monthly allotment to increase to the maximum allotment for a household of that size.
Why didn’t I get an emergency allotment?
The emergency allotment was calculated by the maximum allotment issuance for the household size, minus the amount that was issued for that month. If you received the maximum benefit you would not be eligible to receive the emergency allotment.
Will the regular SNAP issuance for June 2020 be given?
Yes. The regular allotment will go out in accordance to the regular staggering schedule which occurs on the 1st, 4th and 7th of each month.
Am I eligible to receive SNAP benefits?
You may complete an online screening at www.commonhelp.virginia.gov. Scroll to the middle of the page and click "Am I Eligible?" Please remember this is a prescreening tool, you must apply for SNAP to get a final decision.
Has the application process changed for SNAP?
There are no policy changes to the SNAP application process. Households must file an application for SNAP benefits with the Local Department of Social Services in the locality where the household resides.
How can I get health coverage?
You can apply for Medicaid at any time at www.commonhelp.virginia.gov. Medicaid covers a variety of services, including testing and treatment for COVID-19.
I am worried my prescriptions will run out. How can I prepare?
Medicaid is allowing members to fill a 90-day supply of many routine prescriptions. Check with your pharmacist or doctor
Will my current coverage be canceled if I experience a change in circumstances and/or I was late mailing in my renewal documents?
No, Virginia Medicaid will not cancel coverage for eligible individuals due to a change in circumstances or paperwork issues. Our priority is to maintain your coverage during this time. If you experience issues, please contact http://www.dmas.virginia.gov/contactforms/#/general so that we might assist you.