How to Apply for Benefits
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Obtaining an Application
1. Apply online at www.commonhelp.virginia.gov or
2. Call Cover Virginia at 1-855-635-4370 to apply on the phone, or
3. Print out and complete a paper application for SNAP/TANF here (Click here for Spanish version), or Medicaid here (Click here for Spanish version); and mail it to your local Department of Social Service (Additional forms or applications may be required) or
4. Visit your local Department of Social Services in the city or county in which you live
You may also request an application be mailed to you or pick up one at our office.
Applications for all programs are also available on the state website. (Select the Assistance tab to find the program you are interested in applying for and the applicable forms will be listed underneath).
Paper applications are accepted by mail, or in person.
Because benefits for some programs are prorated from the date that you apply, we encourage you to file an application the same day that you contact the agency, either by mail or in person, as soon as possible.
If you are found eligible, the amount of time to process your application and the amount of benefits you receive will depend on the date your signed application is received in our agency.
Processing Time
Medicaid allows 45 days to determine an individual’s eligibility.
TANF allows a 30 day processing timeframe.
The SNAP program allows a 30 day processing timeframe.
Filing an Application & Interviews
You may file an application at any time.
Grayson County Department of Social Services operates on an appointment system. If you leave an application and an interview is required; an appointment will be sent to you with your interview time.
Medicaid does not require an interview.
However, Food Stamps and TANF (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families) require an interview before eligibility can be determined. If you miss your scheduled interview; it is your responsibility to call and reschedule another appointment.
“In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political beliefs, or disability.”
During the interview, your application will be reviewed with an eligibility worker and you will be advised of what verifications are needed to evaluate your application and determine whether or not you are eligible for assistance.
Verifications
Federal, State, and local policy regulations require that certain verifications be provided before your application can be processed. Your eligibility worker will advise you during your interview or by mail as to what specific information is needed regarding your case. Some examples of the most commonly requested verifications are:
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Social Security numbers for all household members
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Verification of all income for prior month, such as:
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Pay stubs
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Records of tips, bonuses, or commissions
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Child Support
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Pensions & other retirement income
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Self employment records
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Educational income (Student loans or grants)
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Proof of disability (doctor’s statement)
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Proof of identity (Driver’s license or other valid ID)
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Verification of resources (Medicaid, Auxiliary Grant applications; SNAP if questionable)
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Most recent account statements (Checking, savings, Christmas Club, CDs, Credit Union, Trust Funds, Money Market Accounts)
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Proof of stocks or bonds
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Property owned other than your own home
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Life insurance policies–face value & cash value (Not required for food stamps)
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Burial plots and burial arrangements
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Vehicle(s)
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How will I know if I am eligible for assistance?
All of the benefit programs have specific income and resource limits. If you are under these limits, and have provided all of the requested information, your eligibility worker will notify you by mail as to whether or not you are eligible for assistance.
If you do not provide all of the requested information, your case will be denied for failure to provide information. You may reapply at any time.
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