Disability and Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Virginia
Last Updated on November 19, 2025 by Rachel
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box
- Apply for or renew Medicaid/FAMIS now: Call 1-833-522-5582 (Cover Virginia), TDD 1-888-221-1590; or apply online at CommonHelp application portal. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Request a Medicaid long‑term services screening (for CCC Plus Waiver): Contact your local Department of Social Services (LDSS) or call Cover Virginia at 1-833-522-5582 to ask for the “LTSS screening.” (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (Medicaid rides): Fee‑for‑Service rides through Modivcare at 1-866-386-8331; or call your health plan’s transportation line on your card. (dmas.virginia.gov, vamedicaid.dmas.virginia.gov)
- Special education help today: Parent Ombudsman for Special Education 1-800-422-2083; email SpecialEducationOmbudsman@doe.virginia.gov. (doe.virginia.gov)
- Food help: Apply for SNAP online via CommonHelp or call 1-833-522-5582; SNAP amounts for a 2‑person home can be up to $536/month through September 30, 2025. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Utility emergencies: Energy Assistance Crisis applications accepted November 1–March 15; Cooling assistance June 15–August 15. Call 1-855-635-4370 or apply at CommonHelp. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Housing Choice Voucher info: Find your local housing agency via HUD’s directory; HUD PIH Customer Service 1-800-955-2232. (hud.gov)
- Mental health or safety crisis: Dial 988 (24/7).
Why this guide is different
- Concrete numbers and deadlines: Income limits, benefit amounts, and application windows are included with direct links to official Virginia and federal sources.
- Step‑by‑step actions and backups: Each section starts with what to do first and ends with a plan if it doesn’t work.
- Built for single parents raising disabled children: Focus on EPSDT, Medicaid waivers, school services, transportation, and respite.
Based on our scan of leading search results, many pages skip exact dollar amounts, statewide phone numbers, respite hour limits, transportation contacts, and practical timelines. You’ll find those details here with cited, dated sources.
Emergency First Steps (start here)
- If your child has urgent medical or equipment needs: Ask your pediatrician to write “medically necessary” orders for the needed service or item, then request coverage under Medicaid EPSDT. EPSDT can cover treatments and equipment children need to correct or improve a condition, even when not typically covered for adults. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- If you need immediate caregiver relief: If you’re on a Medicaid waiver, ask your care coordinator about respite. Developmental Disability (DD) waivers allow up to 480 hours of respite per state fiscal year; CCC Plus consumer‑directed respite allows up to 480 hours per calendar year. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- If utility shut‑off is imminent: Apply for Energy Assistance Crisis help; decision can be made within program windows and emergencies may be resolved quickly. Call 1-855-635-4370. (dss.virginia.gov)
- If eviction risk is immediate: Ask LDSS about TANF Emergency Assistance (up to $1,500 per emergency for eviction prevention or disaster recovery). (law.lis.virginia.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Program | Who It Helps | Key Amounts or Limits | Where to Apply / Call |
|---|---|---|---|
| Children’s Medicaid (FAMIS Plus) | Virginia children under 19 based on income | 2025 income limits below; 12‑month continuous coverage for kids | Cover Virginia: Children’s coverage or call 1-833-522-5582. (dmas.virginia.gov, coverva.dmas.virginia.gov) |
| FAMIS (CHIP) | Kids under 19 above Medicaid income up to 205% FPL | 2025 income examples: family of 3 up to $54,633/yr | FAMIS details and 2025 income chart or call 1-833-522-5582. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov) |
| EPSDT | Extra Medicaid benefit for all children under 21 | Covers medically necessary services to correct or improve conditions | Ask your child’s doctor and plan; EPSDT overview at DMAS. (dmas.virginia.gov) |
| CCC Plus Waiver | Kids with medical complexity/physical disability needing LTSS | Includes personal care, respite, tech, NEMT; screening required | Start via LDSS screening; CCC Plus Waiver page has steps. (dmas.virginia.gov) |
| DD Waivers (FIS, CL) | Children with developmental disabilities | Waiver slots via CSB/BHA; waitlist with priority process | Contact your local CSB; DBHDS waiver page. (dbhds.virginia.gov) |
| SNAP | Food benefits based on income | Max allotment for 3 is $768/mo through Sept 30, 2025 | Virginia SNAP or call 1-833-522-5582. (dss.virginia.gov) |
| WIC | Pregnant/postpartum and children under 5 | Monthly fruit/veg benefit FY2025: child 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52 | Virginia WIC or local health dept. (fns.usda.gov, vdh.virginia.gov) |
| SSI for Children | Disabled children with limited income/resources | 2025 federal rate: up to $967/mo per eligible child | Apply with Social Security; 2025 rates at SSA. (ssa.gov) |
| Energy Assistance | Low‑income households with utility needs | Crisis: emergency help during heating season; Cooling: June 15–Aug 15 | Apply at CommonHelp or call 1-855-635-4370. (dss.virginia.gov) |
| Medicaid Transportation | Rides to covered medical care | Modivcare FFS 1-866-386-8331; plan lines vary | DMAS transportation page. (dmas.virginia.gov) |
Health Coverage and In‑Home Supports
Medicaid and FAMIS for Children
Do this first: Apply for coverage at CommonHelp or call 1-833-522-5582. Children approved get 12 months of continuous coverage with limited exceptions, which helps avoid gaps while your income fluctuates. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- What’s covered: Full medical, dental, vision, behavioral health, and EPSDT for extra medically necessary services. No premiums or copays. (dmas.virginia.gov, cubrevirginia.dmas.virginia.gov)
- 2025 income limits for children (includes 5% disregard):
| Family Size | Medicaid for Children Monthly | FAMIS Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $2,609 | $3,614 |
| 3 | $3,287 | $4,553 |
| 4 | $3,966 | $5,493 |
| 5 | $4,644 | $6,432 |
| 6 | $5,322 | $7,372 |
Source: Cover Virginia 2025 income guidelines, effective January 15, 2025. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
- If your child is disabled: Some children may also qualify under the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) path. 2025 ABD monthly income limit is 1,064∗∗foroneand∗∗1,064** for one and **1,430 for two, plus resource rules. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied due to income, still apply for your child because disability or waiver status can qualify. Ask for a Fair Hearing if you believe the decision is wrong—the notice explains how to appeal. If you need help, call Cover Virginia 1-833-522-5582. (dmas.virginia.gov)
EPSDT: the Medicaid lever most families miss
Action first: Ask your child’s doctor to document that a service or device is “medically necessary to correct or improve” your child’s condition and submit a prior authorization under EPSDT. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Examples: In‑home nursing, extra therapy hours beyond plan caps, specialized formula, certain assistive tech. EPSDT is for members under 21, regardless of whether adults get the same benefit. (dmas.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Request a written denial and appeal; many approvals happen after appeal with strong medical letters. Use your plan’s member handbook and provider manuals for what to include. (vamedicaid.dmas.virginia.gov)
CCC Plus Waiver (home‑ and community‑based care)
Action first: Request a long‑term services screening through your LDSS and apply for Medicaid if you haven’t already. After approval, you can choose agency‑directed or consumer‑directed attendants and respite. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Key supports: Personal care, respite, assistive technology and environmental modifications (EM/AT), adult day health, NEMT, and care coordination. Respite can be consumer‑directed. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Respite cap: Consumer‑directed respite under CCC Plus is limited to 480 hours per calendar year. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Who can get paid: Certain legally responsible individuals may provide personal care if policy criteria are met (post‑2023 permanent rules). Ask your care coordinator. (vamedicaid.dmas.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If screening is denied, request reconsideration in writing. If no providers are available, ask your plan for Single Case Agreements and to widen the search radius.
Developmental Disability (DD) Waivers: FIS and CL
Action first: Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) to be screened for the DD waivers and placed on the statewide waitlist if eligible. Find your CSB from DBHDS. (dbhds.virginia.gov)
- Which waiver:
- Family & Individual Supports (FIS) covers extensive in‑home supports, respite, and clinical services.
- Community Living (CL) includes 24/7 options when needed.
Virginia maintains a waitlist; slots are assigned by independent committees based on urgency. (dbhds.virginia.gov)
- Respite: DD waivers cap respite at 480 hours per state fiscal year, combined across models. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: While waiting, continue maximizing EPSDT and your health plan benefits; ask your CSB about support coordination and regional crisis resources. DBHDS reports increased waiver capacity in 2025 focused on high‑priority needs—keep your information updated to reflect current risks. (dbhds.virginia.gov)
Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
Action first: Call your plan’s transportation line on your card, or for Fee‑for‑Service members call Modivcare at 1-866-386-8331 to book rides or mileage reimbursement. Schedule as early as possible. (dmas.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a supervisor, file a transportation complaint, and request mileage reimbursement if a friend or relative can drive. Use the member NEMT handbook for appeal routes. (dmas.virginia.gov)
Care Connection for Children (VDH)
Action first: If your child has a long‑term physical condition, contact Care Connection for Children for care coordination, insurance navigation, and help with certain medical costs when uninsured/underinsured (income up to 300% FPL for the Pool of Funds). Call 804-864-7716. (vdh.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local health district for other CYSHCN programs or referrals to specialty clinics. (vdh.virginia.gov)
Cash, Food, and Utilities
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for Disabled Children
Action first: Apply with Social Security (online or local office) and gather medical records, school IEPs, and therapy notes.
- 2025 federal rate: Up to $967/month for an eligible child (actual payment is reduced by countable income). (ssa.gov)
Timeline: Many decisions take months; request “Compassionate Allowance” review if your child’s condition is on SSA’s fast‑track list.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal promptly and submit teacher/therapist questionnaires. Consider free legal aid for SSI appeals in Virginia.
SNAP (EBT food benefits)
Action first: Apply via CommonHelp or call 1-833-522-5582.
- FY2025 maximum monthly allotments (48 states, incl. VA), through September 30, 2025:
| Household Size | Max SNAP |
|---|---|
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
| Each add’l | $220 |
Virginia also uses Broad‑Based Categorical Eligibility; gross income screens vary (BBCE up to 200% FPL). See the state’s FY2025 chart. (dss.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied for missing documents, reapply right away with what you have and add documents within the window. You can also ask your LDSS for an expedited SNAP screening if you have little income and cash on hand. (dss.virginia.gov)
WIC for pregnant/postpartum parents and children under 5
Action first: Apply at your local health department or online.
- FY2025 fruit and vegetable monthly benefit: child 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52 (inflation‑adjusted; FY2025 unchanged from FY2024). (fns.usda.gov)
- 2025 income limits (effective June 3, 2025 to June 30, 2026): Example—family of four monthly gross up to $4,957. See full VDH chart. (vdh.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your household is on Medicaid or SNAP, inform WIC—they can simplify income checks. Ask for breastfeeding support or nutrition counseling separate from food benefits. (vdh.virginia.gov)
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), plus Diversionary and Emergency Assistance
Action first: Apply at CommonHelp or your LDSS.
- Diversionary Assistance: One‑time payment up to the maximum 120 days of what TANF would pay your family, or $1,500—whichever is greater. You’re ineligible for TANF for a period after taking DA (1.33 × the days of assistance). Decision timelines are defined in regulation. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- TANF Emergency Assistance: Up to $1,500 per emergency occurrence for eviction prevention or fire/natural disaster needs. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Ongoing TANF grant amounts: Monthly TANF benefits vary by locality group and family size in Virginia. For precise current payment levels, contact your LDSS using the statewide directory; amounts are set in policy and can change. (dss.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your need is a one‑time crisis (e.g., immediate car repair for work), ask LDSS whether Diversionary Assistance fits better than ongoing TANF. If denied, request a written decision and consider an appeal using the VDSS process listed on your notice. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
Energy Assistance & Utility Affordability
Action first: Apply for Fuel Assistance during the fall window, Crisis during heating season, and Cooling in summer. Deadlines:
- Fuel: second Tuesday in October through second Friday in November each year (exact dates posted by VDSS).
- Crisis: equipment/security deposit Nov 1–Mar 15; heating fuel/utility first workday in Jan–Mar 15.
- Cooling: June 15–August 15.
Call 1-855-635-4370 or apply via CommonHelp. (dss.virginia.gov)
- PIPP (Percentage of Income Payment Program): If you have Dominion Energy or Appalachian Power electric service and income at or below 150% FPL, your monthly bill can be set at 10% of income if you heat with electricity or 6% if you heat otherwise; arrears can be forgiven with on‑time payments. Apply through CommonHelp or your LDSS. (dss.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility about medical hardship protections and extra time with a doctor’s note; combine Energy Assistance with PIPP for better affordability.
Child Care and After‑School
Action first: Apply for the Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP) through CommonHelp or your LDSS. Your application is typically reviewed within 30 days, and you may be interviewed. Areas may use waitlists when demand exceeds slots. (childcare.virginia.gov)
- Eligibility basics: Virginia residents working, job‑seeking, in education/training, CPS‑involved, VIEW, or SNAP E&T participants; income within local limits (up to 85% of State Median Income for certain categories). Copays and rates follow VDOE schedules; see “Rates and Family Copayments” effective July 1, 2025. (childcare.virginia.gov, rga.lis.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about priority status (e.g., CPS) and waitlist position. Request a “conditional” approval if experiencing homelessness while you assemble documents (up to 90 days). (childcare.virginia.gov)
Special Education and School Services (IDEA)
Action first: Request an evaluation in writing to the school’s special education administrator. Keep a copy with the date you handed it in.
- Get help: Parent Ombudsman 1-800-422-2083 can coach you on next steps and options like mediation. (doe.virginia.gov)
- Dispute options: Facilitated IEP, Mediation (voluntary), State Complaint, and Due Process hearings—each with its own timelines and forms on VDOE’s website. (doe.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t resolve issues locally, file a State Complaint with evidence (IEP, emails, data), or request Mediation. For legal advice, seek a Virginia special education attorney or legal aid.
Assistive Technology, Home/Vehicle Modifications, and Safety
- Medicaid EM/AT: For children on Medicaid (including waivers), certain Environmental Modifications and Assistive Technology can be covered when medically necessary and authorized—ask your care coordinator for the member guide and approved vendors. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Transportation safety: Medicaid NEMT can include wheelchair‑accessible vehicles or mileage reimbursement; ask Modivcare how to set it up. (dmas.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If authorization is denied, use EPSDT with your physician’s letter to support the medical need, then appeal. (dmas.virginia.gov)
Housing (quick pointers)
Action first: Check your local Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) administrator and whether waitlists are open. Use Virginia Housing’s administrator map and HUD’s PHA directory. If you already have a voucher, your cost share is based on income and local payment standards. (virginiahousing.com, hud.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about local preferences (e.g., disability, residency), and apply for multiple waiting lists if allowed. For general rental counseling, call HUD‑approved housing counselors at 1-800-569-4287. (hud.gov)
Transportation and Appointments: Timelines that help
- Book NEMT rides as soon as appointments are scheduled; same‑day urgent rides can be requested with documentation from the provider. Keep trip numbers for any complaints. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Keep a binder of: insurance cards, approval letters, IEP, therapy notes, and ID. You’ll reuse these for multiple programs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping EPSDT: Assuming a service “isn’t covered” for kids when EPSDT could allow it with medical necessity. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Waiting for waiver approval before asking for help: Use EPSDT, FAMIS, and your health plan now while on a DD waiver waitlist. (dbhds.virginia.gov)
- Missing deadlines: Energy Assistance has firm application windows; mark October–November, Nov 1–Mar 15, and June 15–Aug 15 on your calendar. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Not appealing: Many denials are reversed with better documentation; always keep notices and submit appeals on time using instructions provided. (doe.virginia.gov)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your Medicaid plan and school about inclusive behavioral health providers; if you face bias, escalate through plan grievance processes and VDOE’s Ombudsman for school issues; consider community supports while pursuing formal remedies. (doe.virginia.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Use EPSDT to push for medically necessary in‑home nursing, therapy, and equipment; request NEMT accommodations (wheelchair van, escort) as needed through Modivcare or your plan. (dmas.virginia.gov, dmas.virginia.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Coordinate TRICARE with Medicaid/FAMIS if eligible; housing and counseling support are available via HUD‑approved counselors and local PHAs. (hud.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: Lawfully present children may qualify for Medicaid/FAMIS; interpreters are available through Cover Virginia at 1-833-522-5582. Schools must provide special education regardless of immigration status. (cubrevirginia.dmas.virginia.gov, doe.virginia.gov)
- Tribal citizens: Check PHA preferences and Indian housing authorities in your area through HUD if applicable; children’s Medicaid/EPSDT rules still apply statewide. (hud.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Use mileage reimbursement and mail‑order pharmacy through your plan; ask for telehealth and home‑based therapies where clinically appropriate. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Single fathers: The programs above (Medicaid/EPSDT, SNAP, TANF, Energy Assistance) apply regardless of gender; eligibility is based on the child and the household.
- Language access: When calling Cover Virginia or your health plan, request an interpreter; it’s free. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
Program Tables You Can Scan Fast
CCC Plus vs. DD Waivers (at a glance)
| Feature | CCC Plus Waiver | DD Waivers (FIS/CL) |
|---|---|---|
| Who it’s for | Medical complexity/physical disability needing LTSS | Intellectual/developmental disability with functional support needs |
| Respite | Up to 480 hours/calendar year (CD model) | Up to 480 hours/state fiscal year combined |
| How to start | LDSS long‑term services screening + Medicaid eligibility | CSB/BHA screening and waitlist |
| Typical supports | Personal care, respite, EM/AT, NEMT | In‑home and community services, respite, residential/day options |
| Waitlist | No | Yes (priority‑based) |
Sources: DMAS CCC Plus, Virginia Admin. Code, DBHDS waiver pages. (dmas.virginia.gov, law.lis.virginia.gov, dbhds.virginia.gov)
Children’s Medicaid & FAMIS: 2025 monthly income limits
| Family Size | Medicaid for Children | FAMIS |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $2,609 | $3,614 |
| 3 | $3,287 | $4,553 |
| 4 | $3,966 | $5,493 |
| 5 | $4,644 | $6,432 |
| 6 | $5,322 | $7,372 |
Effective January 15, 2025. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
SNAP maximums through September 30, 2025
| Household | Max Benefit |
|---|---|
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
Virginia DSS FY2025 chart. (dss.virginia.gov)
WIC monthly fruit and vegetable benefit (FY2025)
| Category | Monthly Amount |
|---|---|
| Child (1–4) | $26 |
| Pregnant or postpartum | $47 |
| Mostly/fully breastfeeding | $52 |
USDA FNS FY2025 CVB memo; VDH eligibility chart for overall WIC income limits. (fns.usda.gov, vdh.virginia.gov)
Energy Assistance & PIPP quick window/percentages
| Program | Window / Share |
|---|---|
| Fuel Assistance | Second Tuesday in October to second Friday in November |
| Crisis (heat) | Nov 1–Mar 15 (equipment/dep); heat bills first workday in Jan–Mar 15 |
| Cooling | June 15–Aug 15 |
| PIPP monthly bill share | 10% of income (electric heat) or 6% (other heat) |
Virginia DSS program pages. (dss.virginia.gov)
Local Offices and How to Reach Them
- Find your LDSS: Use VDSS’s local office directory to get your county’s address and phone; you can call statewide TTY 711. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Find your local Housing Agency: Use HUD’s Public Housing Agency directory for phone numbers and waitlist info. (hud.gov)
- Medicaid: Cover Virginia 1-833-522-5582; Managed Care Helpline 1-800-643-2273. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- NEMT: Modivcare FFS 1-866-386-8331; check your plan card for MCO ride numbers. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Special Education: Parent Ombudsman 1-800-422-2083. (doe.virginia.gov)
Real‑World Examples
- Medically complex toddler: Mom obtains EPSDT letters from the pediatrician for extra in‑home nursing and a pulse oximeter; service is approved after prior authorization. While waiting for a DD waiver, she uses CCC Plus personal care hours and Modivcare rides to monthly specialists. (dmas.virginia.gov, dmas.virginia.gov)
- School‑age child with autism: After CSB screening places her child on the DD waiver waitlist, mom leverages FAMIS Plus for therapies, requests an IEP reevaluation, and uses VDOE Mediation to add social skills support. (dbhds.virginia.gov, doe.virginia.gov)
Application Checklist
- Identification: Parent photo ID; child’s birth certificate or other proof.
- Proof of Virginia residency: Lease, utility bill, or LDSS‑accepted document.
- Income proof: Recent pay stubs, benefits letters; for WIC/SNAP/CCSP also bring self‑employment logs if applicable. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Medical documentation: Doctor’s orders with medical necessity language for EPSDT and waivers. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- School documents: IEP/504, progress reports.
- Transportation needs: Wheelchair or escort notes for NEMT. (dmas.virginia.gov)
What to do if any of this doesn’t work
- Ask for the exact reason in writing: Denial notices must explain appeal rights and deadlines. Use them. (doe.virginia.gov)
- Escalate: For Medicaid service issues, file a plan grievance and an appeal; for special education, call the Ombudsman and file Mediation or a State Complaint. (doe.virginia.gov)
- Reapply when timelines open: Energy Assistance and CCSP waitlists move; mark the windows and re‑check. (dss.virginia.gov, childcare.virginia.gov)
Ten Virginia‑Specific FAQs
- How fast can I get a CCC Plus screening: It varies by locality, but you request it through LDSS; hospital discharge planners can screen in‑hospital when needed. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Can a parent be paid as an attendant: Under current Virginia policy, some legally responsible individuals can be paid attendants when criteria are met. Ask your coordinator about LRI rules. (vamedicaid.dmas.virginia.gov)
- What is the respite cap: DD waivers—480 hours per state fiscal year; CCC Plus CD respite—480 hours per calendar year. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- How do I get rides to therapy: Call your MCO’s transport line or Modivcare 1-866-386-8331 for Fee‑for‑Service; have your Medicaid ID and appointment details ready. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Will my child lose coverage if my income increases: Children on Medicaid/FAMIS get 12 months of continuous coverage (limited exceptions). (dmas.virginia.gov)
- How much is SSI for my child in 2025: Up to $967/month federally before counting other income; states may supplement separately. (ssa.gov)
- What are 2025 FAMIS income limits: For a family of 3, monthly income up to 4,553∗∗;for4,upto∗∗4,553**; for 4, up to **5,493. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
- What’s the fastest food help: Apply for SNAP and ask LDSS about expedited service if you have very little income or resources; see the FY2025 benefit chart. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Can WIC help with formula and healthy foods: Yes, plus monthly fruit/vegetable benefits (26–26–52 depending on category). (fns.usda.gov)
- I’m about to be evicted—any cash help: Ask LDSS about TANF Emergency Assistance (up to $1,500), and check if your locality has additional rent relief. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
Resources by Region (find your offices fast)
- Local Departments of Social Services: Use the VDSS directory to get your county office’s phone and address. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Housing: Use HUD’s PHA directory and Virginia Housing’s map of voucher administrators; payment standards vary by locality. (hud.gov, virginiahousing.com)
- Health Districts/WIC: Find your VDH local health department for WIC, Care Connection for Children referrals, and pre‑admission nursing home screenings for Medicaid. (vdh.virginia.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: This guide uses official sources from Virginia Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards and uses only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but is not affiliated with any government agency and is not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
Policy change warning: Benefits, income limits, and application windows can change quickly. Always verify amounts and deadlines with the linked official agencies before you decide. We update when verified changes are announced.
Health content caution: This guide is informational and not medical advice. For treatment decisions, consult your child’s clinicians.
Security note: For your protection, don’t email Social Security numbers or full medical records to unverified addresses. Use secure portals whenever possible.
Citations (by section)
- Medicaid/EPSDT and Children’s coverage: DMAS and Cover Virginia pages; 12‑month continuous coverage. (dmas.virginia.gov, dmas.virginia.gov)
- CCC Plus Waiver process and benefits; EM/AT resources; Cover Virginia contacts. (dmas.virginia.gov, dmas.virginia.gov)
- Respite hour limits (DD waivers; CCC Plus CD services). (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- DD Waiver waitlist and CSB screening. (dbhds.virginia.gov)
- SNAP FY2025 amounts and eligibility chart (VA DSS). (dss.virginia.gov)
- WIC FY2025 CVB amounts (USDA FNS) and VDH income chart effective June 3, 2025. (fns.usda.gov, vdh.virginia.gov)
- SSI 2025 Federal Benefit Rate. (ssa.gov)
- Energy Assistance windows; PIPP details. (dss.virginia.gov)
- NEMT Modivcare contact; DMAS member transport info. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- VDOE dispute options and Ombudsman contacts. (doe.virginia.gov)
- LDSS office directory. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Housing agency directory; payment standard references. (hud.gov, virginiahousing.com)
What top guides often miss—and we included
- Exact 2025 numbers for SSI, SNAP, WIC, and Medicaid income limits.
- Respite caps and LRI caregiver payment rules.
- Transportation phone numbers and complaint routes.
- Energy Assistance and PIPP windows with application paths.
- Plan‑B steps when you hit a denial or a waitlist.
If you need help prioritizing based on your child’s situation, tell us your county and your child’s needs, and we can map the first three calls to make today.
Learn more:
- CCC Plus Waiver | Virginia Medicaid
- Transportation Services
- Contact Us | MES
- Parent Ombudsman for Special Education | Virginia Department of Education
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Virginia Department of Social Services
- Energy Assistance (EA) – Virginia Department of Social Services
- PHA Contact Information | HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
- Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT)
- 12VAC30-122-490. Respite service.
- 22VAC40-295-150. TANF-Emergency Assistance (TANF-EA).
- For Children
- Medicaid for Children and FAMIS | CoverVA
- FAMIS | CoverVA
- Waiver Services – Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS)
- WIC FY 2025 Cash-Value Voucher/Benefit Amounts | Food and Nutrition Service
- New Participants – WIC Participants
- SSI Federal Payment Amounts for 2025
- Medicaid for Children
- Medicaid for Children and FAMIS | CoverVA
- Medicaid for Persons who are Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) | CoverVA
- For Members
- EPSDT Supplements | MES
- 12VAC30-120-924. Covered services; limits on covered services.
- Update to Legally Responsible Individuals Rules Effective November 11, 2023 | MES
- Right Help. Right Now. – Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS)
- Non-Emergency Transport
- Care Connection for Children – Virginia Department of Health – VDHLiveWell
- Case Management – Southside Health District
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Virginia Department of Social Services
- Women, Infants and Children | WIC – Virginia Department of Health – VDHLiveWell
- 22VAC40-35-40. Diversionary assistance program eligibility criteria.
- Find Your Local Department – Virginia Department of Social Services
- Percentage of Income Payment Program (PIPP) – Virginia Department of Social Services
- Paying for Child Care | Child Care VA
- RD235 (Published 2024) – SFY 2023 Annual Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) Report
- Resolving Disputes | Virginia Department of Education
- Transportation
- Housing Choice Voucher Administrators In Virginia
- Contact Us | HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
- Special Education for Families | Virginia Department of Education
- Definitions and abbreviations | CoverVA
- Special Education Mediation | Virginia Department of Education
- Forms – Virginia Department of Social Services
- Waivers
- Payment Standards for Virginia Housing
🏛️More Virginia Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Virginia
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
