Public Benefits

VLAS Publications

» General Relief

General Relief is an optional local program designed to address the financial needs of persons who do not meet the eligibility criteria for federal programs such as TANF and SSI.

» Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps.  Rules for eligibility, how to apply, and how to appeal if you’re denied or if your benefits are reduced or cut off.

» Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

Benefits available from the Department of Social Services for some low-income households with at least one child.  Explains some of the rules for eligibility and how to appeal if you’re denied.

» Unemployment Compensation

Here is the information you’ll need to apply for unemployment benefits.

Social Security/SSI

VLAS Publications

» Preparing for Your Disability Hearing

You’ve been denied Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, and you appealed that decision.  Now you need to get ready for a hearing on your appeal before an Administrative Law Judge.

» Representative Payee-SSA

Social Security Administration may appoint someone else to receive your disability benefits on your behalf if you are unable to manage your money.  Learn about the rules and your rights.

» Social Security Disability (SSD)

These are monthly benefits for someone who has earned enough and paid into Social Security, but is now disabled under Social Security’s guidelines.  It may be thought of as a type of insurance that you have earned by paying into Social Security.  Learn about the guidelines and definition of “disability,” how to apply, and how to appeal if you’re denied.

» Social Security Disability-Working While Disabled

Am I allowed to work and receive Social Security Disability benefits at the same time?  Yes.  But won’t Social Security tell me I’m not disabled if I’m working?  Maybe.  It depends on how much you are being paid to work.  You can work for a limited amount of wages and still be eligible.  Learn about the limits and the rules.

» Social Security Benefits-Other than Disability 

An explanation of benefits available through the Social Security Administration that are not related to disability.  Includes retirement, survivors’ benefits, and dependents’ benefits.

» Supplemental Security Income (SSI) 

SSI is disability benefits that are based on financial need.  You do not need to have ever worked or paid into Social Security in order to be eligible.  Read about the rules for eligibility, how to apply, and how to appeal if you are denied.

VLAS Publications en Español

» Cupones Para Alimentos Basicos (Nutricion Programa de Asistencia [SNAP])

» Seguro Social Suplementario (SSI)

Helpful Resources

» List of Local Food Pantries

» Dept. of Social Services Benefits

» Social Security Disability Benefits Starter Kit

» Social Security Appeals Process

» How to Correct Social Security Earnings

» How to Handle Social Security Overpayments

» Social Security’s Ticket to Work

» Social Security Attorneys List

» Energy Assistance Fact Sheet

» Energy Assistance Eligibility

» Fuel Assistance FAQs

» Fuel Assistance Application

» Cooling Assistance FAQs

» Crisis Assistance FAQs

» Privacy Complaint Form – DSS

» Virginia Judicial System Court Self-Help

» Legal and Law Enforcement General Information

Law Enforcement and Court Information Only- No Legal Aid information