$140B
Government benefits go unclaimed every year in the U.S.
White House OMB, 2023
9M
Older adults are eligible for benefits but not enrolled
NCOA/Urban Institute, 2024
~100M
Americans receive some form of government assistance
U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services, 2023
Virginia Government Benefits Programs
Explore the main benefit programs available and find the ones that apply to your situation.
Available programs in Virginia
SSDI in Virginia - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI in Virginia - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI is a benefit you already paid for through Social Security taxes on every paycheck. If a medical condition now keeps you from working, you may be owed a monthly payment based on your work history, not the severity of your condition. It is federal, so the rules are the same in Virginia as everywhere else.
AVERAGE MONTHLY PAYMENT
$1,630
What the average disabled worker receives each month in 2026
SSA 2026 COLA Fact Sheet
HOW OFTEN CLAIMS ARE DENIED
2 in 3
First applications are usually denied, most are reversed on appeal, which is why getting it right matters
SSA
YOU CAN STILL WORK
$1,690/mo
The most you can earn from a job in 2026 and still qualify
SSA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Workers age 31 and older typically need to have worked at least 5 of the last 10 years and paid Social Security taxes
- People with a condition expected to last at least 12 months or be terminal
- The condition prevents substantial work, defined by the SSA's annual earnings limit (higher for people who are blind)
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. We handle the entire process for you, from the paperwork to every appeal. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Does SSDI approval lead to other benefits in Virginia?
Yes. After 24 months on SSDI, you become eligible for Medicare regardless of age. In Virginia you may also qualify for Medicaid, since the state expanded coverage to adults up to 138% of the poverty level.
How long does SSDI take in Virginia?
Virginia reviews the medical part of your claim through its Disability Determination Services, part of the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services. An initial decision typically takes 3 to 6 months, with appeals taking a year or more if needed. The earlier you apply, the more back pay you may receive.
Can I work while applying?
Yes, as long as you stay under the SSA's monthly limit for substantial gainful activity, which is $1,690 in 2026. Going over that signals to the SSA that you're able to do substantial work.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SSI in Virginia - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI in Virginia - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI is monthly cash for people who are struggling to get by. You can qualify if you're disabled, blind, or 65 or older, and have very little income and few assets. Unlike SSDI, you don't need a work history, it's based on need. In Virginia, getting SSI also opens the door to Medicaid.
MONTHLY MAXIMUM
$994
The federal SSI payment for one person in 2026. Virginia does not add a general state supplement
SSA, 2026
SAVINGS YOU CAN KEEP
$2,000
The federal SSI resource limit. Your home and one car never count
SSA, 2026
WHO CAN QUALIFY
No work history
SSI is based on need, not your work record. People 65+, blind, or disabled can qualify
SSA
Who qualifies
- People who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older
- Those with very limited income
- Limited resources, with your home and one car not counting against the limit
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. SSI applications involve detailed financial records that trip people up, and one mistake can delay your case. We handle all of it for you. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Will I get Medicaid with SSI in Virginia?
Yes. SSI approval automatically enrolls you in Virginia Medicaid, known as Cardinal Care. No separate application needed.
Does Virginia add to my SSI payment?
Generally no. Virginia does not pay a general state supplement, so most recipients get only the federal amount. Virginia does offer a separate Auxiliary Grant for people who live in a licensed assisted living facility, adult foster care home, or approved supportive housing.
Can I receive both SSI and SSDI?
Sometimes. If your SSDI payment is low enough, SSI can fill the gap up to the federal rate. This is called concurrent benefits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Veterans Benefits in Virginia
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
Veterans Benefits in Virginia
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
VA disability is tax-free monthly pay you earned through your service. If you have an injury or condition connected to your military service, you may be owed compensation every month. The VA assigns a rating from 0 to 100 percent that sets your payment, and many veterans are rated too low or denied at first.
MONTHLY PAY AT 100%
$3,938
What a veteran rated 100% with no dependents receives each month in 2026, tax-free
VA.gov, 2026
TAXES YOU OWE ON IT
$0
VA disability pay is never counted as taxable income by the IRS
IRS
VIRGINIA PROPERTY TAX
Fully exempt
Veterans rated 100% permanent and total pay no property tax on their primary home
Virginia DVS / Va. Code 58.1-3219.5, 2026
Who qualifies
- Veterans who served on active duty or qualifying training (Guard and Reserve can count)
- Those with a current condition connected to their service
- Those discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
How to apply
The fastest way to get what you're owed is through Turnout. Our VA advocates build your claim from the start, catch rating errors, and fight back if the VA gets it wrong. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
How does the VA disability rating work?
The VA rates you from 0 to 100 percent based on how much your condition affects you. That rating sets your monthly payment. If you have more than one condition, they are combined, not simply added.
Does Virginia offer any extra benefits for disabled veterans?
Yes. Virginia exempts the primary residence from property tax for veterans rated 100% permanently and totally disabled, and also exempts one motor vehicle. The Virginia Department of Veterans Services can help you file, and this is separate from your federal VA compensation.
Can I get VA disability and Social Security at the same time?
Yes. They are separate programs with separate rules, so receiving VA disability does not reduce your SSDI.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Healthcare Advocacy in Virginia
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare Advocacy in Virginia
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare advocacy is one-on-one help getting the most out of your Medicare. Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65 and older, and for some younger people on disability, and most plans cover more than people realize. A Turnout advocate works with you to understand your coverage, find the right specialists, manage your prescriptions, and cut your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there is no cost to you.
WHERE TURNOUT HELPS
All 50 states
Turnout's healthcare advocates work with people in every U.S. state
Turnout
WHAT IT COSTS YOU
$0
Your insurance pays for the advocacy, so there's nothing out of pocket for you
Turnout
ONE-ON-ONE TIME
Up to 6 hours a month
Free monthly sessions with your own dedicated advocate
Turnout
Who qualifies
- Anyone with Medicare, including Part B, or approaching eligibility at 65
- People who want help using their coverage, finding care, or cutting costs
- And more, including those reviewing or switching plans
How to apply
The fastest way to get the most from your Medicare is through Turnout. We pair you with a healthcare advocate who helps you understand your coverage, find specialists, manage prescriptions, and lower your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there's no cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
What does a healthcare advocate do for you in Virginia?
A healthcare advocate helps you understand and use your coverage, from finding specialists to managing prescriptions to lowering what you pay. With Turnout, the advocacy is covered by Medicare at no cost to you.
What's the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?
Medicare is federal health insurance based mainly on age or disability, not income. Medicaid, called Cardinal Care in Virginia, is based on income. Some people qualify for both, which covers nearly all of their health costs.
Does Virginia offer free Medicare counseling?
Yes. The Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program, or VICAP, offers free, unbiased Medicare counseling through the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services. Turnout advocacy goes further with ongoing one-on-one help.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Education Advocacy in Virginia
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education Advocacy in Virginia
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education advocacy is one-on-one help getting your child the school support they're entitled to. Under federal law, a child with a disability has the right to an Individualized Education Program, or IEP, a plan the school must follow and pay for. Evaluations get delayed and support gets watered down, and many families don't realize they can push back. A Turnout education advocate prepares with you, joins your IEP meetings, reviews the plan, and pushes for everything the law requires.
CONDITIONS THAT QUALIFY
13 categories
From autism to dyslexia to ADHD, federal law covers a wide range
IDEA / U.S. Dept. of Ed
HOW COMMON IT IS
1 in 7
Public school students receive special education under federal law
U.S. Dept. of Education
VIRGINIA EVALUATION TIME
65 business days
Virginia schools must decide eligibility within 65 business days of your referral
Virginia DOE / 8VAC20-81-60, 2026
Who qualifies
- Children ages 2 to 21 enrolled in Virginia public schools
- Have a qualifying disability under IDEA, including learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, speech delays, emotional disturbance, and more
- A disability that affects their ability to learn
How to apply
The fastest way to get your child the help they need is through Turnout. Our education advocates prepare with you, join your IEP meetings, and push the school for every service your child is entitled to. Reach out to get started.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan?
An IEP provides specialized instruction and services for a child with a disability. A 504 plan provides accommodations, like extra time or seating changes, but not specialized instruction. A child who needs more than accommodations usually needs an IEP.
How fast does the school have to evaluate my child in Virginia?
Virginia schools must complete the evaluation and decide whether your child is eligible within 65 business days of receiving your referral. That is a Virginia rule, and it is measured in business days, not the federal 60 calendar days.
What does an education advocate do?
An education advocate helps you understand your child's rights, prepares with you before meetings, joins your IEP meetings, and pushes back when the school offers less than the law requires.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Medicaid in Virginia (Cardinal Care)
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Virginia residents.
Medicaid in Virginia (Cardinal Care)
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Virginia residents.
Virginia Medicaid, now branded Cardinal Care, is a joint federal and state program that covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and more for those who qualify, usually at no cost. Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, so adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level can qualify, not just children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities. Coverage is the same statewide and is run by the Department of Medical Assistance Services.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
1.8M+
Virginians enrolled in full-benefit Medicaid, including more than 550,000 expansion adults (approximate)
Virginia DMAS enrollment data, 2026 (approx.)
MONTHLY PREMIUM
$0
Most enrollees pay nothing per month for full health coverage
Virginia DMAS, 2026
ADULT INCOME LIMIT
138% FPL
Adults up to 138% of the federal poverty level can qualify since Virginia expanded Medicaid
Cover Virginia / DMAS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Adults ages 19 to 64 with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level
- Children up to 148% FPL, with FAMIS covering higher incomes up to 205% FPL
- Pregnant women up to 148% FPL, with FAMIS MOMS up to 205% FPL
- Adults 65 and older, blind, or with a qualifying disability, including SSI recipients who are enrolled automatically
How to apply
Apply through Cover Virginia at coverva.dmas.virginia.gov, online at CommonHelp, or by calling 1-855-242-8282. Have proof of income, identity, and Virginia residency ready. Most decisions arrive within 45 days, longer if a disability determination is needed. Starting January 1, 2027, most expansion adults will also need to meet a work or community engagement requirement.
Frequently asked questions
Is Medicaid called something different in Virginia?
Yes. Virginia now brands its Medicaid program Cardinal Care, which combined the older Medallion 4.0 and CCC Plus programs. It's the same federal Medicaid program, run by the Department of Medical Assistance Services.
Did Virginia expand Medicaid to cover adults?
Yes. Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, so adults ages 19 to 64 with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level can qualify even without children or a disability.
Are there new work requirements coming?
Yes. Starting January 1, 2027, most adults covered through Medicaid expansion will need to complete at least 80 hours a month of work, school, or approved activities, or qualify for an exemption. This does not affect children, seniors, or people covered through disability pathways.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SNAP in Virginia
Monthly grocery benefits on an EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP in Virginia
Monthly grocery benefits on an EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP helps qualifying Virginia households buy groceries. Benefits are loaded each month onto an EBT card and can be used at most grocery stores, Walmart, and many farmers markets. The program is run by the Virginia Department of Social Services through your local department of social services.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
~817,500
Virginians received SNAP benefits in FY2025, about 9 percent of the state
USAFacts citing USDA, FY2025
MAX BENEFIT (FAMILY OF 4)
$994/mo
Federal maximum SNAP allotment for a family of four in FY2026
USDA, FY2026
INCOME LIMIT (VIRGINIA)
200% FPL
Virginia raises the gross income limit to 200% of the poverty level, well above the federal 130%
Virginia DSS SNAP Manual, FY2026
Who qualifies
- Households with gross income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, higher than in most states
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Virginia
- Most adults age 16 to 59 must meet work requirements unless exempt
- Households with a member 60 or older or with a disability follow simpler income rules
How to apply
Apply online through CommonHelp at commonhelp.virginia.gov, or in person at your local department of social services. An interview is required, but it can usually be done by phone. Standard processing takes up to 30 days, with expedited benefits within 7 days for urgent need.
Frequently asked questions
I work full-time. Can I still qualify for SNAP in Virginia?
Yes. Virginia sets its gross income limit at 200% of the poverty level, so many working households qualify, especially once deductions for rent, utilities, and childcare are applied.
How long does SNAP approval take in Virginia?
Up to 30 days for a standard decision. If your household has very low income and limited resources, you may qualify for expedited benefits within 7 days. An interview is required but can usually be done by phone.
Can I use my EBT card online or at farmers markets?
Yes. The Virginia EBT card is accepted at most grocery stores and at retailers like Walmart and Amazon for online orders, plus many farmers markets, some of which match your produce dollars.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Virginia
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Virginia
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, helps pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5 eat well. It provides monthly benefits for healthy groceries, plus breastfeeding support and nutrition help. Many working families qualify, and being on Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF usually qualifies you automatically.
BABIES WIC REACHES
4 in 10
WIC serves about 4 in 10 of all infants born in the US
USDA, 2024
ON MEDICAID OR SNAP?
Auto-eligible
Being on Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF automatically meets WIC's income test
USDA
INCOME LIMIT
185% FPL
Households at or below 185% of the federal poverty level can qualify
Virginia DOH WIC, 2026
Who qualifies
- Pregnant women, new mothers, and caregivers of infants and children under age 5
- Households at or below 185% of the federal poverty level
- Families already receiving SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF are automatically income-eligible
- Virginia residents, regardless of immigration status
How to apply
Start online at myvawic.org, or call Tell WIC at 1-877-835-5942 or your local health department to schedule an appointment. Bring ID for each family member applying, proof of Virginia residency, and proof of household income or proof of Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF enrollment. If approved, you receive your Virginia eWIC card and food benefits.
Frequently asked questions
What can you buy with WIC?
Healthy basics like milk, eggs, cereal, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and infant formula and baby food. The specific approved items are set by Virginia's WIC food list.
Can I get WIC if I have a job?
Yes. Many working families qualify. WIC's income limit is 185% of the poverty level, and being on Medicaid or SNAP usually qualifies you automatically.
Does WIC cover baby formula?
Yes. WIC provides infant formula for babies who need it, and it also supports breastfeeding with counseling and ongoing help.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
LIHEAP in Virginia
Assistance that helps cover your home energy bills and prevents shutoffs.
LIHEAP in Virginia
Assistance that helps cover your home energy bills and prevents shutoffs.
Virginia's Energy Assistance Program helps qualifying households pay their heating and cooling bills, with payments made directly to the utility company. The program is federally funded and run by the Virginia Department of Social Services through your local department of social services. It has three parts: Fuel Assistance for heating, Cooling Assistance for summer, and Crisis Assistance for emergencies.
INCOME LIMIT
150% FPL
Households at or below 150% of the federal poverty level can qualify for energy help
Virginia DSS, FY2026
CRISIS HELP
Up to $4,200
Maximum winter Crisis Assistance for households facing an emergency; cooling help runs up to $700
LIHEAP Clearinghouse, FY2026
PAID DIRECTLY
To your utility
The benefit is credited to your energy account, not paid to you as cash
Virginia DSS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Virginia households with income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level
- Renters and homeowners paying energy bills, or paying energy costs included in rent
- Cooling Assistance requires a household member who is 60 or older, disabled, or a child under 6
- Households on SNAP, TANF, or SSI often meet the income test
How to apply
Apply online through CommonHelp at commonhelp.virginia.gov, by calling 1-855-635-4370, or at your local department of social services. Fuel Assistance has a short window that opens in mid-October, Cooling Assistance runs June 15 to August 15, and Crisis Assistance runs November 1 to March 15. Bring a current utility bill, photo ID, proof of income, and any shutoff notice, and apply early.
Frequently asked questions
What if my income is too high for LIHEAP?
Virginia uses a 150% federal poverty level income limit. If you receive SNAP, TANF, or SSI, you likely meet the income test already.
How is the benefit paid? Do I receive a check?
No. Energy Assistance payments go directly to your utility company. The benefit is credited to your account, reducing what you owe or preventing a shutoff. You will not receive cash.
When can I apply for cooling help in Virginia?
Cooling Assistance opens June 15 and closes August 15 each year. Your household must include someone 60 or older, a person with a disability, or a child under 6.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
ACA Subsidies in Virginia
Subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance for qualifying Virginians.
ACA Subsidies in Virginia
Subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance for qualifying Virginians.
ACA subsidies are tax credits that reduce the monthly cost of a health insurance plan. Virginia runs its own marketplace, Virginia's Insurance Marketplace, at marketplace.virginia.gov, so Virginians no longer use HealthCare.gov. Because Virginia expanded Medicaid, adults with very low income may qualify for Cardinal Care instead, while the marketplace covers those who earn a bit more.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
573K+
Virginians who have enrolled through the state marketplace since it launched in 2023
Virginia SCC, 2025
WHO GETS FINANCIAL HELP
86%
Share of Virginia marketplace enrollees who qualify for financial assistance
Virginia SCC, 2025
WHEN TO ENROLL
Nov 1 -- Jan 30
Open enrollment for 2027 coverage. Special enrollment available year-round for qualifying life events
Virginia's Insurance Marketplace, 2026
Who qualifies
- Virginians without affordable employer coverage available
- Households earning at or above 138% of the federal poverty level, above the Medicaid range
- Those not eligible for Cardinal Care, CHIP, or Medicare
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Virginia
How to apply
Apply at Virginia's Insurance Marketplace at marketplace.virginia.gov, not HealthCare.gov. Enter your household income and family size to see your subsidy estimate and available plans, then compare by premium, deductible, and network. Enroll during open enrollment, November 1 to January 30, or after a qualifying life event like job loss, marriage, or the birth of a child.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still use HealthCare.gov in Virginia?
No. Virginia moved to its own marketplace, Virginia's Insurance Marketplace, at marketplace.virginia.gov. That is where Virginians now shop for plans and claim subsidies.
What if my income is too low for ACA subsidies?
Apply anyway. The marketplace will check whether you qualify for Cardinal Care, which is Virginia Medicaid. Because Virginia expanded Medicaid, adults up to 138% of the poverty level can get covered that way instead.
How much can I save with subsidies?
It depends on your income, household size, and plan. About 86% of Virginia marketplace enrollees qualify for financial help, applied automatically when you enroll.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
TANF in Virginia
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
TANF in Virginia
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
TANF gives short-term cash to Virginia families with children who have very limited income. The cash is loaded onto an EBT card and can be used for basic needs like rent, utilities, food, and transportation. The program is run by the Virginia Department of Social Services, comes with a federal 60-month lifetime limit, and pairs cash with a work program called the Virginia Initiative for Education and Work (VIEW).
MAXIMUM MONTHLY BENEFIT
$482 to $587
The maximum monthly cash grant for a family of three, which depends on your locality group
Virginia DSS TANF Manual, Ch. 300
LIFETIME LIMIT
60 months
The federal lifetime cap on cash assistance for adults, with a 24-month VIEW limit along the way
Virginia DSS, 2026
INCOME ELIGIBILITY LIMIT
About $966 to $1,175/mo
The gross monthly income limit for a family of three to qualify, which is higher than the benefit paid
NCCP citing Virginia DSS, 2024
Who qualifies
- Virginia residents responsible for a child under 18 (or 18 and still in high school)
- Households with very low income, below the limit for their family size
- Adults must take part in the VIEW work program unless deferred
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens
How to apply
Apply online through CommonHelp at commonhelp.virginia.gov, or in person at your local department of social services. Complete an interview to determine eligibility. Applying through CommonHelp also screens you for SNAP and Medicaid. If approved, benefits are loaded onto an EBT card.
Frequently asked questions
How much does TANF pay in Virginia?
The maximum for a family of three is between $482 and $587 a month, depending on which locality group you live in. That is the cash paid, which is lower than the income limit to qualify.
How long can I receive TANF in Virginia?
A federal 60-month lifetime cap applies to adults, and the VIEW work program has its own 24-month limit followed by a waiting period. Child-only cases can continue to cover the children.
Can I receive TANF and SNAP at the same time?
Yes. TANF recipients are generally categorically eligible for SNAP and Medicaid. Applying at CommonHelp screens you for all three at once.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
EITC in Virginia (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
EITC in Virginia (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
The Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC, is a tax break for people who work but earn low to moderate income. The federal credit is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal tax. Virginia is one of the states that adds its own EITC on top, and you have to file both a federal and a state tax return to claim the full amount.
FEDERAL WORTH UP TO
$8,231
The 2026 federal maximum for workers with three or more children, with smaller credits for fewer or no kids
IRS, 2026
VIRGINIA ADDS
Up to 20%
Virginia lets you claim a state credit worth up to 20% of your federal EITC
Virginia Dept. of Taxation, 2026
REFUNDABLE OPTION
Cash back
For 2025 and 2026, Virginia offers a 20% refundable credit, so you can get money back even with no state tax owed
Virginia Dept. of Taxation, 2026
Who qualifies
- Workers with earned income from a job or self-employment
- Income within the federal limits for filing status and number of children
- Valid Social Security numbers for the worker, spouse, and any children
- Virginia residents who also file a state tax return to claim the state credit
How to apply
You claim the federal EITC by filing a federal tax return, even if you don't normally have to file, and claim the Virginia credit on your state return. For 2025 and 2026 you can choose Virginia's refundable credit worth 20% of the federal amount, which pays cash back. Free filing help is available through IRS-certified VITA volunteers.
Frequently asked questions
Does Virginia have its own state EITC?
Yes. Virginia offers a state Earned Income Tax Credit worth up to 20% of your federal EITC. For tax years 2025 and 2026 you can choose a refundable version, which pays you cash back even if you owe no state tax.
Can I get EITC without kids?
No kids needed. Workers without children can still qualify for a smaller federal credit, and Virginia adds its state credit on top. Having children increases the amount.
Will getting EITC affect my other benefits?
Generally no. EITC refunds aren't counted as income for programs like SNAP or Medicaid, and there are protections so a refund doesn't immediately count against asset limits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Tax Credit in Virginia
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
Child Tax Credit in Virginia
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
The Child Tax Credit is a federal tax credit worth up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17, available to Virginia families when they file their federal tax return. Up to $1,700 per child is refundable, meaning lower-income families can receive it as a direct payment even when they owe no federal tax. Virginia does not have a separate state child tax credit, so the federal credit is what applies.
WHO IT'S FOR
Kids under 17
A federal tax credit for each qualifying child under 17 living at home
IRS
OWE LITTLE OR NO TAX?
Some comes back
Up to $1,700 per child is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal income tax
IRS, 2026
WHO QUALIFIES
Most families
Most families with children qualify; the credit only phases out at higher incomes
IRS
Who qualifies
- Families with a qualifying child under 17 with a valid Social Security number
- Part of the credit comes back as a refund for families with at least $2,500 in earned income
- Full credit for incomes up to $200,000, or $400,000 for married couples
How to apply
You claim the Child Tax Credit when you file a federal tax return. You can claim it even if you don't normally file. Tax software and free filing help will walk you through it and fill in the right forms (Schedule 8812) for you.
Frequently asked questions
Does my child need a Social Security number?
Yes. You, your spouse if filing jointly, and each qualifying child must have a valid Social Security number issued before the return due date.
What is the Additional Child Tax Credit?
The Additional Child Tax Credit is the refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit. For 2026, up to $1,700 per child is refundable. You need at least $2,500 in earned income to qualify and claim it on Schedule 8812.
Does Virginia have a state Child Tax Credit?
No. Virginia does not have a state-level Child Tax Credit. The federal credit is fully available to Virginia residents, but there is no additional state credit on top of it.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Care Assistance in Virginia
Subsidized child care for working Virginia families.
Child Care Assistance in Virginia
Subsidized child care for working Virginia families.
Virginia's Child Care Subsidy Program helps working families pay for child care while parents work, attend school, or complete job training. It is funded by the federal Child Care and Development Fund and overseen by the Virginia Department of Education, which took over the program from Social Services in 2021. The program pays providers directly, with families paying a sliding-scale share based on income.
PARENT SHARE
Sliding scale
Families pay a co-pay based on income and family size, capped at 7 percent of gross income
Virginia DOE, 2026
INCOME LIMIT TO ENTER
85% of state median
Families with a young child can enter at or below 85% of the state median income
Virginia DOE / Fairfax County, 2026
WAITLIST STATUS
Shrinking fast
A waitlist began in July 2024, and the 2026 state budget funds ending it, so apply now
Virginia DOE / VPM, 2026
Who qualifies
- Virginia residents with a child under 13, or under 18 with a disability
- Parents who are working, attending school, or in job training
- Households with a young child at or below 85% of the state median income to enter
- Child is a U.S. citizen or has qualified immigration status
How to apply
Apply online through CommonHelp at commonhelp.virginia.gov or contact your local department of social services. You will need proof of income, identity for parent and child, and documentation of your work, school, or training schedule. A waitlist began in July 2024, so apply as soon as you know you need care.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose my own child care provider?
Yes. You can choose from any provider that is approved to accept the subsidy, including licensed centers and licensed family child care homes.
How much will I have to pay out of pocket?
A sliding-scale co-pay applies based on your income and family size, and it is capped at 7 percent of your gross income. Families at or below the poverty level pay very little.
What happens if I'm on the waitlist?
Your application stays active and slots are filled as funding allows. Virginia introduced the waitlist in July 2024, and the 2026 state budget provides money to eliminate it, so the wait is expected to shrink.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
