Amherst County, Virginia

If you are interested in applying for SNAP (food assistance), here is the information you need to know:

 

Applicants for SNAP must file an application by submitting the application form DPB to the Department of Social Services in the county or city where they live, either in person, through an authorized representative, or by mail.

 

You have the right to apply on the same day you contact the Department of Social Services in your locality. The address and office hours are shown at the bottom of this notice. Your application may be submitted at any time during office hours.

 

You may come to the office to pick up an application any time during office hours, or the agency can mail you an application on the same day you request it.

 

Suppose your resources and income are very low ($100 in resources and $150 in income), you are a migrant or seasonal farm worker, or your combined gross monthly income and resources are less than your family's shelter expenses. In that case, you may be eligible for expedited service. If you qualify, you can receive SNAP benefits within seven days after filing your application at the local social services department.

 

Your application will be reviewed on the day it is received to determine whether you are eligible for expedited service. You can apply even if you appear ineligible for the program.

 

You or a designated authorized representative may file an incomplete application if it contains the name, address, and signature of a responsible household member or property designated authorized representative. The agency has 30 days to process your application (7 days if expedited). The 30-day (or 7-day if expedited) processing time begins the day after the application is received at the office. Additionally, your food stamp benefits for the month of application will be prorated from the date if you are found eligible.

 

If your case is approved, you must receive your benefits within 30 days following the date of application (or seven days if expedited).

 

As part of the SNAP application process, you must have an in-office interview before being certified, but the interview is unnecessary before applying. Under certain hardship conditions, you may request the office interview be waived and replaced. For example, by a telephone interview

 

The SNAP Program has separate rules and processes from other programs. You should apply for food stamps even if you are limited in receiving benefits from other programs.