Human Services Department

Health and Nutrition

Food Stamps Program

What are Food Stamps?

Food stamp benefits enable qualified recipients to buy food at their local grocery store. An amount is placed on an electronic benefit card that may be used like a debit card to purchase eligible food items from the account at stores that display the Cardinal card logo or Quest logo.

How do I apply for Foods Stamps?

Chesapeake residents can apply for food stamps at the Department of Human Services, 100 Outlaw Street, Chesapeake, Va. 23320. You may also request an application by calling (757) 382-2000. You can apply for food stamps the same day you request an application, however, you wil be given an appointment to come in at a later date.

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

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

• Apply for food stamps for your household
• Receive an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card to access your food stamp account
• Use your food stamp benefits for you at the grocery store
• Receive copies of your food stamps 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 take to the local social services department. 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 Virginia Cardinal 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 Food Stamps benefits?

You can use food stamps to buy food or seeds and plants to grow food in your home garden. You cannot use food stamps 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
• You cannot use food stamps to pay back grocery bills. At the checkout counter, tell the cashier beforehand that you will be paying with your EBT card

How can I determine if I am eligible to apply for Food Stamps?

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

What are the time standards for applying for any program?

For financial and medical assistance, with some exceptions, 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.

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.

Applications & Details

• Application for Food Assistance

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