The Providers Guide To EBT In Virginia

Keeping track of all the EBT information out there can be overwhelming. So, we’ve broken down all the basics in one handy guide.

If you have a question that we haven’t answered here, let us know.

What's the Virginia EBT Card?

EBT = electronic benefits transfer.

EBT card = a card that looks and works like a debit or credit card but is loaded with food stamps and/or cash benefits. You can use it at stores that accept EBT.

You’ll get the Virginia EBT Card once you’re approved for benefits.

Virginia’s EBT customer service number is 1-866-281-2448.

How do I check my EBT balance?

There are a few different ways to check your EBT balance in Virginia. Click below for more information.

How do I apply for food stamps?

The easiest way to apply for food stamps is online. If you’d rather apply in person, call your local office or the Virginia SNAP hotline (1-800-552-3431) to find out how.

Learn if you’re eligible for food stamps.

How do I renew my food stamps?

You’ll have to renew your food stamps before your certification period (the amount of time you’ll get food stamps) ends. For most Virginia households, that period is 6 - 12 months. Confirm the length of your certification period with your caseworker.

You’ll get a letter in the mail when it’s time to reapply. To be safe, you could also put a note in your calendar or wherever you keep important reminders.

You can renew your benefits online with a CommonHelp account.

If you’d rather renew in person, call your caseworker, local office, or the Virginia SNAP hotline (1-800-552-3431) to find out how.

When will I get my food stamps?

Virginia sends out benefits from the 1st to the 9th of every month, based on the last digit of your case number. Check the full deposit schedule to find out which day you’ll get your food stamps.

What household changes do I have to report and when?

You should report:

  • If anyone moves in or out of your household.
  • Financial changes like income, rent, savings, or child support.
  • Work changes. Does your household include an adult who doesn’t have a disability or a child (what the government calls an ABAWD)? Is this person required to work or train 20 hours/week? Then you should report if this person starts working or training less than 20 hours/week.

Most households have to report all changes no more than 10 days after they happen, but some don’t. Your caseworker can confirm which rules apply to your household. If you are moving, you should report your new address ASAP to make sure you don’t miss any important letters.

You can report changes online with a CommonHelp account.

How do I replace a lost or stolen EBT card?

If you can’t find your EBT card, call the Virginia EBT hotline as soon as you can: 1-866-281-2448.

My benefits were stolen off my EBT card. What can I do?

Call the Virginia EBT hotline number at 1-866-281-2448. Your state may require you to change your PIN, report your card stolen, and/or request a new card.

If your benefits were electronically stolen in or after October 2022 (e.g., through skimming or phishing), you may be eligible to apply for reimbursement. Learn more about your state’s process.

What can I buy with EBT?

You can use food stamps to buy groceries, snacks, and seeds or plants that will produce food.

You can’t use food stamps to buy alcohol, tobacco products, vitamins, live animals, prepared foods, or any non-food household items.

WIC food packages typically include cereal, juice, eggs, milk, peanut butter, dried and canned beans, tofu, fruits and vegetables, and whole-wheat bread. WIC packages also include canned fish and cheese for breastfeeding moms, and baby food for babies.

Which stores and restaurants take EBT food stamps?

Download Providers to see nearby stores and farmer’s markets that take EBT. You don’t need an account to use the map.

Can I get any discounts with my EBT card?

Yes! Your EBT card can get you and your family discounted or free admission to museums, theme parks, zoos, aquariums, and more.

Can I get more food stamps if I’m pregnant or a new parent?

Once your child is born, your household size will increase. More household members = more benefits.

While you are pregnant, you can’t get more food stamps, but you can apply for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits.

WIC provides food and resources for pregnant women, new parents, and children up to 5 years old.

My family can’t afford other basic needs besides food.

If you have a child who’s 18 or younger, you may qualify for cash assistance through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program.

TANF provides monthly cash assistance to help families with children get by during tough times.

Am I eligible for other benefits?

Check out this benefit finder tool and find out.

How can I check my EBT balance online?

Download the Providers app to check your balance instantly. And while you’re there, explore opportunities to save and earn money.

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This information was compiled by Providers from publicly available government websites. Please check in with your local office if you have questions.