Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Rachel

Virginia Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers: Medicaid, FAMIS (CHIP) & More [2025]

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, no‑fluff guide for single moms in Virginia who need real healthcare help today. It covers Medicaid, FAMIS (Virginia’s CHIP), pregnancy coverage, dental, mental health, transportation, free/low‑cost clinics, and backup options if one path doesn’t work.

Source transparency: All numbers and rules below come from official Virginia or U.S. government sources and major Virginia health systems. Look for the source links after each section.

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Quick Help Box (save this)

• Apply for Medicaid/FAMIS online at CommonHelp: Apply at CommonHelp.virginia.gov. For phone help, call Cover Virginia at 833‑5CALLVA (833‑522‑5582) or 855‑242‑8282 (TTY 888‑221‑1590). (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov, dmas.virginia.gov)
• Pregnant and uninsured (any immigration status): Apply for FAMIS Prenatal. Call Cover Virginia’s Pregnancy Unit at 855‑242‑8282 (TTY 888‑221‑1590). (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
• Kids under 19: Medicaid/FAMIS with 12‑month continuous coverage. No premiums or co‑pays. Apply on CommonHelp or call 833‑5CALLVA. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov, cubrevirginia.dmas.virginia.gov)
• Adult dental is covered under Virginia Medicaid (Cardinal Care Smiles). Find a dentist via DentaQuest at 888‑912‑3456. (dmas.virginia.gov)
• Need to pick a Medicaid managed care plan or change plans? Call the Cardinal Care Enrollment Broker: 800‑643‑2273 (TTY 800‑817‑6608). (virginiamanagedcare.com)
• Marketplace plans (if you don’t qualify for Medicaid/FAMIS): Call Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace at 888‑687‑1501 for enrollment help. Free navigator help: Enroll Virginia 888‑392‑5132. (marketplace.virginia.gov, enrollva.org)
• Mental health crisis: Dial 988 for 24/7 support in Virginia. (988va.org)
• Free/low‑cost clinics: Use the Virginia Association of Free & Charitable Clinics locator and HRSA health center finder. VAFCC: 804‑340‑3434; HRSA finder linked below. (vafreeclinics.org, datawarehouse.hrsa.gov)

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What programs cover what? (at a glance)

The fastest way to decide where to apply is by household size and monthly income. Income uses Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI).

Quick Eligibility Snapshot (2025)

Reality check: income limits are precise, but you may still qualify even if close to the thresholds due to the standard 5% disregard and family size rules. Always apply—don’t self‑deny. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)

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How to apply today (fastest path first)

• Online: CommonHelp.virginia.gov — fastest and works for Medicaid/FAMIS and other benefits. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
• Phone: Cover Virginia 833‑5CALLVA (833‑522‑5582) or 855‑242‑8282 (TTY 888‑221‑1590). Ask for the Specialized Pregnancy Unit if you’re pregnant. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
• In person/by mail: Find your local Department of Social Services (DSS) office: Find your local DSS. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Status updates: Expect up to 45 days for a decision. Check status in CommonHelp or call Cover Virginia. (dmas.virginia.gov)

Documents you’ll need are listed in the Application Checklist section below. (dmas.virginia.gov)

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Income limits you can use right now (2025)

Virginia updates these each January using federal poverty guidelines.

A) Medicaid for Adults (19–64), up to 138% FPL (includes 5% disregard)

Source: Cover Virginia (2025 guidelines). (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your income is just over the limits, check the Marketplace options with subsidies through 2025 (below) or see if Plan First covers your immediate family planning needs. (healthaffairs.org, coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)

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B) Children’s Coverage: Medicaid vs. FAMIS (CHIP)

Source: Cover Virginia (2025 guidelines). Kids get 12‑month continuous coverage. No premiums or co‑pays. (cubrevirginia.dmas.virginia.gov, coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re temporarily over-income, still apply—your child may get coverage due to other factors, and continuous coverage protects them for 12 months once enrolled. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)

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C) Pregnancy Coverage: Medicaid for Pregnant Women vs. FAMIS MOMS vs. FAMIS Prenatal

How to enroll your newborn: You can enroll by phone with Cover Virginia when baby is born: 855‑242‑8282 (TTY 888‑221‑1590), or ask the hospital to submit newborn info. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about Emergency Services Medicaid for life‑threatening emergencies if you don’t meet immigration criteria, and check WIC for nutrition support right away (see below). (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov, vdh.virginia.gov)

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Using your coverage (Cardinal Care managed care plans)

Once approved, most members pick a managed care plan. As of July 1, 2025, Virginia has five Medicaid MCOs. Molina exited; Humana joined. You can switch plans during special enrollment through September 30, 2025 (date depends on when you select). (vamedicaid.dmas.virginia.gov)

Cardinal Care MCOs and key contacts (2025)

Enrollment broker (compare plans/switch): 800‑643‑2273 (TTY 800‑817‑6608). (virginiamanagedcare.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your doctor isn’t in‑network, use the special enrollment period (through September 30, 2025) to switch. If you miss it, you’ll likely have to wait for your next open enrollment in 2026 unless you have a qualifying reason. (vamedicaid.dmas.virginia.gov)

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Dental: covered for adults and kids

Virginia covers comprehensive dental for adults and children through Cardinal Care Smiles (administered by DentaQuest).

• Find a dentist or get help scheduling: DentaQuest 888‑912‑3456. Covered services for adults include exams, cleanings, fillings, root canals, gum treatment, dentures, and extractions. (dmas.virginia.gov, vamedicaid.dmas.virginia.gov)
• Pregnant members in Medicaid/FAMIS MOMS also have dental coverage. (dmas.virginia.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t find a dentist taking new patients, call DentaQuest to request help scheduling. You can also search the Virginia Health Care Foundation’s dental safety net map. (vhcf.org)

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Transportation to appointments (free if you qualify)

Medicaid covers rides when you have no other way to get to covered care.

• Fee‑for‑Service transportation is run by ModivCare. Reservations: 866‑386‑8331. (dmas.virginia.gov)
• If you’re in a managed care plan, call your plan to schedule rides. Anthem ride line: 877‑892‑3988 (TTY 711). Check your plan card or website for details. (mss.anthem.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for mileage reimbursement if a friend or family member can drive you (ModivCare can explain how). If your ride is late or a no‑show, call the plan’s ride assist line immediately. (mymodivcare.com)

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No co‑pays for Medicaid and FAMIS

Virginia removed co‑pays for Medicaid and FAMIS on April 1, 2022; they do not resume. Kids on FAMIS also have no premiums. (vamedicaid.dmas.virginia.gov, cubrevirginia.dmas.virginia.gov)

Reality check: Some third‑party sites still list old co‑pay charts. If a provider bills you a co‑pay, call your plan’s member services to correct it.

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Kids’ coverage stays steady (12‑month continuous coverage)

Once your child is enrolled in Medicaid or FAMIS, coverage is protected for 12 months, even if your income bumps up or they get other insurance—except in limited cases like moving out of state or turning 19. You still need to report address/contact changes. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your child is wrongly cut off, call Cover Virginia 855‑242‑8282 right away and ask for help reinstating coverage under the 12‑month rule. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)

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WIC: food support for pregnant and postpartum moms and kids under 5

WIC income limit is 185% FPL. Virginia’s 2025–2026 monthly income limits start at $2,413\ast \ast forahouseholdof1and\ast \ast$3,261 for 2 (effective June 3, 2025–June 30, 2026). Apply online or contact your local health district. State WIC line: 888‑942‑3663. (vdh.virginia.gov)

National policy notice: USDA sets WIC income limits at 185% of poverty; Virginia implemented 2025 guidelines by July 1, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask WIC staff to screen you even if you’re a little over income; certain situations may still qualify. If denied, reapply if your income drops or family size changes.

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Breast & cervical cancer screening (free): Every Woman’s Life (EWL)

If you’re uninsured, ages 40–64 (younger if high risk), and meet income rules (up to 250% FPL in 2025), EWL provides free screening and diagnostic services. Call 866‑EWL‑4YOU (866‑395‑4968) to find the nearest site. If cancer is found, you may qualify for Medicaid for treatment. (vdh.virginia.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask EWL to connect you to hospital financial assistance (see below) while your Medicaid for treatment is evaluated. (vdh.virginia.gov)

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If you don’t qualify for Medicaid/FAMIS: Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace

Virginia runs its own Marketplace. Customer service: 888‑687‑1501 (TTY 711). Free navigators (Enroll Virginia): 888‑392‑5132. (marketplace.virginia.gov, enrollva.org)

Subsidies: The Inflation Reduction Act extended enhanced premium tax credits through plan year 2025, keeping premiums lower for many families, including those over 400% FPL if premiums would exceed 8.5% of income. If Congress doesn’t extend them, costs could rise in 2026—so act promptly if you need coverage now. (healthaffairs.org, commonwealthfund.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If Marketplace premiums are still too high, use free clinics or community health centers (below) and ask hospitals about financial assistance policies.

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Premium assistance if you have job‑based coverage options

• FAMIS Select: If your child is eligible for FAMIS and you have access to employer coverage, FAMIS Select pays up to $100 per child per month toward the family premium. Phone (FAMIS Select/HIPP unit): 800‑432‑5924. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
• HIPP / HIPP for Kids (Medicaid): If you or your child has Medicaid and you can enroll in an employer plan, Virginia may pay part/all of your premium if it’s cost‑effective. Apply online; questions: 800‑432‑5924, HIPPcustomerservice@dmas.virginia.gov. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a navigator (Enroll Virginia) to compare your costs with and without premium assistance to avoid surprises. (enrollva.org)

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Free & low‑cost care if you’re uninsured or waiting

• Virginia Association of Free & Charitable Clinics (map and contacts). Phone: 804‑340‑3434. (vafreeclinics.org)
• HRSA Health Center Finder (community health centers/FQHCs with sliding fees). (datawarehouse.hrsa.gov)
• Virginia Health Care Foundation (Project Connect outreach, safety‑net lists). Main: 804‑828‑5804. (vhcf.org)
• 211 Virginia for community resources (24/7). Dial 211 or text CONNECT to 247211. (211virginia.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Check neighboring counties or telehealth options at HRSA‑funded health centers—many offer virtual visits and pharmacy help. (bphc.hrsa.gov)

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Hospital financial assistance (charity care)

If you get a big bill, apply for hospital financial assistance right away.

• Inova (Northern VA): Financial Assistance Team 571‑472‑5880; online and in‑person application options. (inova.org)
• UVA Health (Charlottesville/Northern VA): Financial counseling 434‑924‑8718 or 866‑320‑9659; multiple walk‑in sites. (uvahealth.com)
• Sentara Health (statewide network): Assistance line 757‑233‑4600 or 877‑768‑3993; policy provides free or discounted care based on income/assets. (sentara.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask billing for a “plain‑language summary” of the assistance policy and an interest‑free payment plan. Apply even if you’re denied once—many approvals happen on appeal.

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Mental health and crisis support

• Virginia 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (24/7). (988va.org)
• DBHDS suicide prevention and local Community Services Boards (24/7 emergency services; site lists). (dbhds.virginia.gov)
• Maternal Mental Health Hotline (HRSA): Call or text 1‑833‑943‑5746 for free, confidential help. (hrsa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If 988 routing is delayed (out‑of‑state cell number), use the Virginia backup 703‑752‑5263 listed by DBHDS, or go to the nearest ER. (dbhds.virginia.gov)

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For Diverse Communities (targeted help)

LGBTQ+ single mothers

• 988 is inclusive and offers text/chat; ask for local resources if you need identity‑affirming care. (988va.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children

• Children with disabilities may qualify for Medicaid regardless of income under certain programs. Ask your DSS or Cover Virginia to screen all categories, and ask about transportation accommodations (wheelchair, stretcher van). (dmas.virginia.gov)

Veteran single mothers

• If you’re a veteran, check your VA health eligibility in addition to Medicaid/Marketplace; you can use both with coordination of benefits (contact your local VA medical center).

Immigrant and refugee single moms

• Use FAMIS Prenatal (no SSN/immigration documents required). For non‑pregnant adults, immigration rules are stricter; you may still get Emergency Services Medicaid for true emergencies. Free navigator help: Enroll Virginia 888‑392‑5132. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov, enrollva.org)

Tribal members (Virginia’s recognized tribes)

• IHS Mid‑Atlantic Service Unit supports Virginia tribes; mobile units and new Mid‑Atlantic Tribal Health Center (Charles City). For schedules/questions, call 804‑622‑0011 (IHS). (indianz.com)

Rural moms with limited access

• The Health Wagon (SWVA) and other safety‑net clinics provide mobile and local care; Project Connect outreach can help with applications (see VHCF list). (vhcf.org)

Single fathers and all caregivers

• The same programs and rules apply regardless of gender. Eligibility is based on income, household size, and category (adult, pregnant, child).

Language access

• Free translation is available through Cover Virginia (833‑5CALLVA) and Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace (888‑687‑1501). (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov, marketplace.virginia.gov)

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Real‑world examples

• Example 1 (pregnancy): You earn $3,400/month\ast \ast withonechild(familysize2)andjustfoundoutyou’repregnant.Medicaidforpregnantwomengoesupto\ast \ast$2,609/month for 2, but FAMIS MOMS goes up to $3,614/month—so you likely qualify for FAMIS MOMS with 12‑month postpartum coverage. Apply immediately via CommonHelp. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
• Example 2 (kids losing coverage mid‑year): Your teen got a summer job; household income spiked. They keep coverage for the full 12 months (continuous coverage) unless a limited exception applies. Report changes, but coverage stays. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
• Example 3 (adult dental pain): You’re on Medicaid and need a dentist. Call DentaQuest 888‑912‑3456 and ask them to help schedule with a provider accepting new patients near your ZIP. Adult dental is covered. (dmas.virginia.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not applying because you think you make “a little too much.” The 5% disregard and different limits (pregnancy vs. adult vs. kids) mean you might still qualify. Apply. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
• Forgetting to enroll your newborn. Call Cover Virginia as soon as baby is born—coverage is guaranteed for the first year. 855‑242‑8282. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
• Ignoring mail from DSS/Cover Virginia. Missed letters cause closures. Update your address and mobile number. (dmas.virginia.gov)
• Missing free rides. If you have no way to get to the doctor, use Medicaid transportation (ModivCare or your MCO’s ride line). Book at least 2 business days ahead. (dmas.virginia.gov)
• Paying co‑pays you don’t owe. Virginia removed co‑pays for Medicaid/FAMIS. If billed, contact your MCO. (vamedicaid.dmas.virginia.gov)

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Application Checklist (bring/upload these)

• Photo ID (if you have one) and proof you live in Virginia (lease, utility bill, or mail with your name/address). (dss.virginia.gov)
• Social Security numbers for applicants (not needed for FAMIS Prenatal). (dmas.virginia.gov, coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
• Proof of income for everyone working in the household (recent pay stubs, W‑2, self‑employment details). (dmas.virginia.gov)
• Information on any current health insurance or job‑based offers. (dmas.virginia.gov)
• Pregnancy verification (if applicable): due date and number of babies expected. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)

Tip: You can upload photos of documents through CommonHelp or email verifications to verify_docs@coverva.org (no replies to this mailbox; it’s only for securely sending docs). (dmas.virginia.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Timelines you can expect

Source: DMAS (processing), Cover Virginia and plan materials. (dmas.virginia.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your case is past 45 days, call Cover Virginia and request escalation; ask your local DSS to speak with a supervisor if needed. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)

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10 Virginia‑specific FAQs

1. How long does a Medicaid or FAMIS decision take?
   Up to 45 days. Check status in CommonHelp or call Cover Virginia. (dmas.virginia.gov)
2. Do adults on Medicaid get dental?
   Yes. Adult dental is covered; call DentaQuest 888‑912‑3456. (dmas.virginia.gov)
3. Are there co‑pays?
   No. Virginia eliminated Medicaid and FAMIS co‑pays in 2022 and they do not resume. (vamedicaid.dmas.virginia.gov)
4. I’m pregnant and uninsured without immigration documents. Can I get care?
   Yes—apply for FAMIS Prenatal (no SSN/immigration documents required). Coverage lasts through 60 days postpartum. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
5. How long do I keep coverage after giving birth?
   Medicaid for Pregnant Women and FAMIS MOMS provide 12 months postpartum coverage. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
6. Will my child lose coverage if I get a raise?
   Children in Medicaid/FAMIS have 12‑month continuous coverage (with limited exceptions). (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
7. How do I change my Medicaid health plan?
   Use the Cardinal Care Enrollment Broker: 800‑643‑2273. Special enrollment runs through September 30, 2025 due to the MCO changes. (vamedicaid.dmas.virginia.gov)
8. Can I get help paying my job‑based premium?
   Possibly. FAMIS Select pays up to $100/month per child; HIPP/HIPP for Kids may pay part/all of your group premium if cost‑effective. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
9. I lost Medicaid during renewal. What now?
   Check Marketplace coverage with subsidies through 2025. Call 888‑687‑1501 or a navigator at 888‑392‑5132 for free help. (marketplace.virginia.gov, enrollva.org)
10. I don’t have a ride. Can Medicaid help?
    Yes. Fee‑for‑Service: ModivCare 866‑386‑8331. MCO members: call your plan’s transportation line (on your card). (dmas.virginia.gov)

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“What to do if this doesn’t work” — backup plan by section

• Application stuck or denied: Call Cover Virginia 833‑5CALLVA/855‑242‑8282 and request a supervisor review. Ask your local DSS for a supervisor as well. You can also appeal. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
• No doctors in network: Use the Enrollment Broker 800‑643‑2273 to switch during the special 2025 window. Ask your current doctor if they accept another Medicaid plan. (vamedicaid.dmas.virginia.gov)
• Bills you can’t pay: Apply for hospital financial assistance (Inova 571‑472‑5880; UVA 434‑924‑8718/866‑320‑9659; Sentara 757‑233‑4600) and set up a payment plan. (inova.org, uvahealth.com, sentara.com)
• Mental health crisis: Dial 988 or go to the nearest ER. (988va.org)

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About Managed Care changes in 2025 (what single moms should know)

• New plan added: Humana Healthy Horizons (joined July 1, 2025).
• Molina exited; affected members auto‑moved to Humana with option to change by September 30, 2025.
• FAMIS members can now also use the enrollment broker to choose a plan. (vamedicaid.dmas.virginia.gov)

Tip: If you rely on certain specialists, call the Enrollment Broker with your doctors’ names to check which plans they take before switching. (virginiamanagedcare.com)

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Tables: Income details you can reference later

1) Adult Medicaid (19–64) monthly limits (138% FPL, 2025)

Source: Cover Virginia (2025). (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)

2) Children: Medicaid (≤148% FPL) vs FAMIS (≤205% FPL), monthly (2025)

Source: Cover Virginia (2025). (cubrevirginia.dmas.virginia.gov)

3) Pregnancy coverage by program

4) Managed care plan quick contacts (2025)

Sources: Plan contact pages. (aetnabetterhealth.com, anthem.com, humana.com, sentarahealthplans.com, uhc.com)

5) Key hotlines you’ll use the most

Sources: DMAS/Cover Virginia/VAFCC/Marketplace. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov, virginiamanagedcare.com, dmas.virginia.gov, dmas.virginia.gov, marketplace.virginia.gov, 211virginia.org)

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Resources by Region (a few to start)

• Northern Virginia: Inova Partnership for Healthier Communities helps with Medicaid/FAMIS applications (see VHCF Project Connect listing: local lines for Fairfax/Loudoun/Prince William). (vhcf.org)
• Southwest: The Health Wagon (mobile clinics; application help via VHCF listing). (vhcf.org)
• Statewide: Free clinics (VAFCC), community health centers (HRSA finder), 211 Virginia. (vafreeclinics.org, datawarehouse.hrsa.gov, 211virginia.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

• We use official sources from the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS/Cover Virginia), Virginia Department of Health (VDH), USDA, HRSA, and established nonprofits. See citations after each section.
• Produced under our Editorial Standards with primary sources only, routine link checks, and documented updates. We are independent and not a government agency.
• Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
• Found an error or update? Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll respond within 48–72 hours.

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Disclaimer

Program rules and amounts can change after publication. Always confirm with the relevant agency or hotline before you act. We link only to official state/federal or established nonprofit resources. We do not collect personal information; any documents should be submitted only through official portals (CommonHelp, Cover Virginia, your local DSS, your health plan). Keep your devices and connections secure when emailing or uploading documents (use trusted networks, strong passwords, and official sites only).

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🏛️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
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs 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