How to Apply for Benefits

Obtaining an Application

You can apply online through the state’s Common Help portal.

You may also request an application be mailed to you or pick up one at either of our offices.  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 fax at (804) 501-4006, by mail (West End mailing address) or in person at either office. You may also apply for SNAP, TANF, Medical Assistance and Energy Assistance by contacting the Enterprise Customer Service Center, 1-855-635-4370.

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. Each program has specific time frames regarding the processing of the application.

Filing an Application & Interviews

You may file an application at any time. Henrico County Department of Social Services now operates on an appointment system. If you leave an application and an interview is required, an appointment will be sent to you for a phone interview.

Medicaid does not require an interview. However, the other major benefit programs: Food Stamps, TANF (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families), General Relief, and the Auxiliary Grant program 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 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:

  • Social Security numbers for all household members
  • Verification of all income for the month prior to your application:
    • Pay stubs (tips, bonuses and/or commissions)
    • Child Support
    • Unemployment compensation
    • Pensions & other retirement income
    • Self employment records
  • Proof of identity (Driver’s license or other valid picture ID)
  • Proof of residency if Driver’s license is not updated (lease, utility bill, statement from the person you live with if you are not on the lease)
  • Please send verifications to the agency email ([email protected]), mail to PO Box 90775, Henrico, VA  23273-0755, upload to Common Help, or fax to (804) 501-4006

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 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.

Contact Us

Social Services

West End
8600 Dixon Powers Dr.
Henrico, VA 23228

East End (Benefit Programs only)
3820 Nine Mile Road
Henrico, VA 23223

Social Services
(804) 501-4001
Adult Protective Services
(804) 501-7346
Child Protective Services
(804) 501-5437

Fax
(804) 501-4006

[email protected]

Mail for both offices
P. O. Box 90775
Henrico, VA 23273-0775

After 4:00pm, Weekends and Holidays

Adult Abuse & Neglect: (888) 832-3858

Child Abuse & Neglect: (800) 552-7096

 
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