Food Assistance - Health and Nutrition

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) - also known as Food Stamps

What is SNAP?

 SNAP (formerly known as Food Stamps) benefits enable qualified recipients to buy food at their local grocery store. An amount is placed on an electronic benefit card (EBT) that may be used like a debit card to purchase eligible food items from stores that display the "We accept EBT" or Cardinal card logo.

How do I apply for SNAP?

Chesapeake residents can apply for SNAP at the Division of Social Services, 100 Outlaw Street, Chesapeake, VA 23320. You may also request an application by calling 757-382-2000. After turning in your application, you will be given an appointment for an interview at a later date. You may also apply online: Application for SNAP

What if you are not able to come into the agency to apply for SNAP?

You may ask for an application to be mailed to you by calling 757-382-2000, or you may name a friend, relative, or neighbor to be your authorized representative. An authorized representative may:

• Apply for SNAP for your household
• Receive an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card to access your SNAP account
• Use your SNAP benefits for you at the grocery store
• Receive copies of your SNAP notice and correspondence

How do I name an authorized representative?

If you want to name an authorized representative, write a note for that person to bring to Social Services. In the note:

• List the name, address and phone number of the person you are naming
• List the duties that you want the person to perform
• Sign and date the note

If an Authorized Representative is selected this individual will have their own EBT Card and Personal Identification Number (PIN#) that will be attached to your account. The Authorized Representative will have full access to the benefits in the account.

What can I purchase with SNAP benefits?

You can use SNAP to buy food or seeds and plants to grow food in your home garden. You cannot use SNAP benefits to buy:

• Alcoholic beverages or tobacco
• Hot foods ready for immediate consumption or foods to be eaten on the store premises
• Pet foods
• Soap or paper products or other non-food items

How can I determine if I am eligible to apply for SNAP?

Visit the Virginia Department of Social Services website to determine your eligibility.

What are the time standards for applying for any program?

For SNAP benefits, action must be taken within 30 days of application unless the household qualifies for expedited services then action must be taken within 7 days of application.  For medical assistance, with some exceptions, action must be taken within 45 days.  Action must be taken on TANF applications within 30 days.

What are my appeal rights if I am found ineligible for any program?

If you disagree with any decision or action on any benefit program application filed, you have the right to appeal. Appeal information can be obtained by calling or visiting the agency.

Are all programs civil rights compliant?

In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this agency is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political beliefs, or disability.

Application for SNAP 

Additional information regarding Benefit Programs can be found by accessing the website of the Virginia Department of Social Services at http://www.dss.virginia.gov