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TANF Assistance for Single Mothers in Virginia

TANF for Single Mothers in Virginia: A No‑Fluff, Actionable Guide

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help (Read This First)

What TANF Is — And the One Link You Need Right Now

Most important action: Submit your application as soon as you think you might qualify.


TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) is Virginia’s cash assistance program for very low-income families with children. It can help with basic needs while you look for work, attend school/training, or stabilize your household. In Virginia, most adult caretakers in TANF must participate in the work program called VIEW (Virginia Initiative for Education and Work), unless exempt.

Reality check: TANF cash payments are modest and vary by family size and where you live. The state updates benefit amounts regularly (often July). Always use the official chart when you decide whether to apply.

  • Current benefit levels and income screens: Go to the official program page and follow links to eligibility and payment standards: VDSS TANF overview

TANF at a Glance (Virginia)

Topic What to know Source
Who it serves Families with a child under 18 (or still in high school), including pregnant people in later pregnancy; some kinship caregivers may qualify for child‑only TANF VDSS TANF overview
Time limit Federal lifetime limit of 60 months; Virginia also applies periodic limits and policies—ask your worker how months are counted in your case VDSS TANF overview
Work program VIEW work requirements for most adult caretakers; exemptions apply (e.g., caring for a very young child, disability) VDSS TANF overview
Cash amount Varies by family size and locality; check the current state chart VDSS TANF overview
Application Online at CommonHelp, by paper at your LDSS, or with in‑person help at your local office CommonHelp, LDSS directory
Payment method Direct deposit or state-issued benefit card; ask your local office to set this up VDSS TANF overview

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you can’t get online or need help with the application, call 211 or visit your local DSS office: Find your LDSS
  • If you’re facing a one-time crisis and don’t want your TANF “clock” to start, ask specifically about Diversionary Assistance: VDSS Diversionary Assistance

Who Qualifies in Virginia (Eligibility Rules)

Most important action: If you have a child in your home and very low income, apply first—eligibility is decided by your local office based on the state’s rules.

  • You must live in Virginia and plan to stay.
  • You must be caring for a dependent child (under 18, or under 19 if still in high school), or be in a late stage of pregnancy (ask your LDSS about exact pregnancy eligibility rules).
  • You must be a U.S. citizen or a “qualified” non-citizen under federal rules. Mixed-status families can still qualify for child-only TANF in some situations.
  • Your countable income and resources must be within Virginia’s TANF limits (varies by family size and locality). Use the official chart linked from the TANF page: VDSS TANF overview and eligibility links
  • You must cooperate with child support (unless you have good cause, such as domestic violence). Learn about child support cooperation and good cause through the state’s child support office: Virginia Division of Child Support Enforcement (DCSE)
  • Most adult caretakers must participate in the VIEW work program unless exempt. You’ll be told how many hours and what activities count once you’re assessed by your local office.
  • Child-only TANF (when only the child is on the case, not the caretaker) has different rules, no work requirement, and months generally don’t count toward an adult’s TANF time limit. Ask your LDSS if this applies to you (common for grandparents or other relatives caring for a child).

Eligibility Checklist (scanable)

Rule You’ll need Where to verify
Virginia residency Proof of address (lease, letter from landlord, mail to your name) VDSS TANF page
Relationship to child Birth certificate, court guardianship, or proof of pregnancy VDSS TANF page
Income limits Paystubs, benefit letters, child support received; official chart varies by locality and household size See TANF eligibility/payment links on VDSS
Resources/assets Bank statements; some items like one car may be excluded—your worker will explain VDSS TANF page
Child support cooperation Will be referred to DCSE unless you claim good cause Virginia DCSE
Work requirements (VIEW) Orientation attendance; signed work plan VDSS TANF page

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you don’t qualify for “regular” TANF, ask about a child‑only case (if you’re a relative caregiver) or Diversionary Assistance for short-term help: VDSS Diversionary Assistance
  • For legal help with denials or child support good cause, contact your regional legal aid: Virginia Legal Aid statewide intake

How Much Cash TANF Pays in Virginia (Understanding the Chart)

Most important action: Use the state’s current chart for your family size and locality.

Virginia adjusts TANF payment levels and income screens periodically (often around July). The exact amount depends on your “assistance unit” size (how many eligible people are on the case) and your locality group. Because these amounts change and vary by county/city, always use the official state chart rather than outdated numbers floating around online.

Here’s how to read the state chart:

  • Find your city/county (or its locality group) in the chart.
  • Look up your assistance unit size (e.g., you + two kids is “3”).
  • If you have earnings, Virginia applies disregards and then subtracts countable income from the standard. Your worker will calculate this with you.

Tip: Ask your worker to show you the calculation line by line so you can double‑check for errors.

How to Read the TANF Payment Chart (Guide)

Step What to look for Why it matters
1 Confirm your locality group Some areas have higher standards due to cost differences
2 Assistance unit size Not every person in your home is always in the assistance unit (e.g., SSI recipient often excluded)
3 Income disregards Virginia disregards part of earned income before counting the rest—ask your worker to apply the correct disregard
4 Countable income vs. standard This decides your grant amount; if countable income exceeds the standard, you may be ineligible
5 Child‑only option If you’re a non‑parent relative or an adult ineligible for TANF, child‑only may result in a smaller but steadier grant

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If the chart is confusing, ask the worker to print or upload the calculation into your CommonHelp account and to note which locality group they used.
  • If you still can’t reconcile the amount, request a supervisor review and, if needed, file an appeal: Appeals and Fair Hearings (VDSS)

Work Requirements: VIEW (Virginia Initiative for Education and Work)

Most important action: Go to your VIEW orientation when scheduled. Missing it without good cause can stop your cash.

  • VIEW applies to most adult caretakers once approved for TANF. You’ll complete an assessment and sign a work plan.
  • Hours and activities vary based on your situation (kids’ ages, health, training, transportation). Activities can include job search, employment, GED/high school completion, approved training, and sometimes community service.
  • You may receive help with child care, transportation, and job‑related costs while in VIEW. Ask for supportive services in writing.
  • Exemptions exist (for example, caring for a very young child, disability, or other reasons defined by policy). If you think you qualify, tell your worker right away and provide proof.
  • Noncompliance can lead to penalties. Before that happens, you should be offered conciliation and a chance to show “good cause” (e.g., illness, lack of child care, domestic violence, transportation breakdown). Keep notes and proof.

VIEW Program Quick Reference

Topic What to do first Where to confirm
Orientation Attend the date/time in your approval notice; ask for rescheduling if you have a conflict VDSS TANF overview
Supportive services Ask in writing for child care, bus passes, gas cards, or uniform/tools if needed VDSS TANF overview
Exemptions Submit medical notes or documentation as soon as possible VDSS TANF overview
Sanctions Respond immediately to conciliation notices; explain good cause with proof VDSS TANF overview

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If VIEW expectations don’t match your reality, ask for a revised plan that fits school schedules, child care hours, or your health limits—provide documentation.
  • For rights or appeal help, reach out to legal aid: Virginia Legal Aid – Find Your Office

Time Limits in Virginia

Most important action: Ask your worker exactly how many TANF months you (the adult) have already used and how the clock is counted in your case.

  • Federal lifetime limit is 60 months of TANF for adults. Child‑only cases generally do not accrue adult months.
  • Virginia also uses periodic limits and policies tied to VIEW participation. Your local office will track your months and explain break periods or extensions where allowed.
  • Hardship or exemption policies may exist in limited circumstances (e.g., domestic violence, disability). Ask and submit proof early.

Time Limit Snapshot

Situation How months are counted Source
Regular adult case Months generally count toward the 60-month lifetime cap VDSS TANF overview
Child-only TANF Typically does not count toward an adult’s 60 months VDSS TANF overview
VIEW related limits Work with your case manager on any periodic caps and re-entry rules VDSS TANF overview

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re close to your limit, ask about Diversionary Assistance or child‑only options (if you’re a relative caregiver): VDSS Diversionary Assistance
  • If facing domestic violence or a medical issue, ask about good cause, exemptions, or hardship policies and provide documentation.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Most important action: Apply online via CommonHelp and then immediately upload your documents to avoid delays.

  • Go to CommonHelp (official application). Create or sign in to your account.
  • Complete the TANF application. Add any related benefits you need (child care subsidy, SNAP) to save time later.
  • Upload documents the same day (see checklist below). Clear, readable photos from your phone are okay.
  • Watch for messages or calls about your interview and any missing items. Check your CommonHelp messages at least twice weekly until approved.
  • If you can’t apply online, go to your local office in person: Find your LDSS

Application Timeline (What to Expect)

Stage What happens Typical timing
Submit application Online at CommonHelp or at your LDSS Aim for same day
Document verification You upload or bring proof; worker may request more Within a few days of applying
Interview (if required) Phone or in-person; confirm your availability Usually scheduled promptly
Decision You get a written notice with the outcome and benefit amount (if approved) Many cases resolve in about 30 days; timing can vary by office and case complexity
First payment Posted after approval and issuance Shortly after approval (varies)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you hear nothing within two weeks, call or visit your LDSS with your case number. Find your office: LDSS directory
  • If your application is denied or delayed past the timeline in your notice, consider filing an appeal: VDSS Appeals and Fair Hearings

Documents You’ll Likely Need

  • Photo ID (for adult applicants)
  • Social Security numbers (or proof of application) for those applying
  • Proof of Virginia address (lease, landlord letter, or official mail)
  • Proof of income (last 4 weeks of paystubs, self‑employment logs, benefits letters)
  • Proof of child support received or court orders (if any)
  • Proof of childcare costs (if paying now)
  • Birth certificates for children, or proof of relationship/guardianship
  • Proof of pregnancy and due date (if applying while pregnant)
  • Bank statements and information on vehicles and resources (your worker will tell you what’s counted or excluded)
  • School attendance or immunization records if requested

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you can’t get a document quickly, upload a note explaining what you’ve requested and from whom. Ask your worker to help verify through data matches where possible.
  • If you fled domestic violence and can’t access documents, tell the worker and request reasonable flexibility and confidentiality. You have rights under state and federal protections: VDSS Civil Rights and Nondiscrimination

Diversionary Assistance: A Smart Option if You Just Need Short-Term Help

Most important action: Tell your worker if a one-time payment could solve your crisis so you can avoid starting your TANF time clock.

Diversionary Assistance is a Virginia program that helps families who meet TANF financial criteria but have a short-term need (like a car repair to keep your job or a deposit to secure housing). It’s designed to stabilize your situation so you don’t have to go on monthly TANF.

Reality check: Diversionary Assistance won’t fit every situation. If your income is likely to stay low for months, regular TANF might be better.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If Diversionary Assistance is denied, ask for the reason in writing. You can still request regular TANF. If the denial seems unfair, consider an appeal: Appeals (VDSS)

Keeping Your TANF (Reporting, Recertification, and Payments)

Most important action: Read every notice and message, and respond by the date shown.

  • Recertifications: TANF is not “set and forget.” You’ll need to renew and verify information regularly. Mark your calendar when you get your approval notice.
  • Reporting changes: Report major changes as soon as they happen (new job, change in pay, someone moves in or out, new childcare costs). Don’t wait—delays can create overpayments you must pay back.
  • Payment method: Ask your LDSS to set up direct deposit or a state-issued benefit card.
  • Keep records: Save screenshots of uploads, copies of notices, and notes of calls (date, time, name).

Staying on Track (Quick Table)

Task Tip Where to get help
Read notices Check your mail and CommonHelp messages weekly CommonHelp
Recertify on time Start gathering documents as soon as you get the recert packet LDSS directory
Report changes Upload proof right away to avoid overpayments CommonHelp
Problems with payments Contact your LDSS; bring your ID and case number LDSS directory

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your case closes for a paperwork issue and you fix it quickly, ask about reopening rather than starting over.
  • If you believe your case was wrongly closed or your benefit was miscalculated, request an appeal right away: VDSS Appeals

Real-World Examples (Virginia Scenarios)

  • A mom in Norfolk loses hours at work for a month. She asks for Diversionary Assistance to cover car repair and a past-due utility bill so she can keep her job. The one-time help stabilizes things and she avoids going on monthly TANF. Source for program: VDSS Diversionary Assistance
  • A grandmother in Roanoke starts a child-only TANF case for her two grandchildren while she works part-time. She doesn’t have to meet VIEW work hours because the case is child‑only. Policy overview: VDSS TANF program page
  • A single mother in Fairfax County has an infant and is told to attend VIEW orientation. She brings a doctor’s note showing temporary medical limitations and receives an exemption for a period, with a plan to check back when the baby is older. Work expectations are individualized: VDSS TANF overview

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting to apply because you’re “not 100% sure.” Apply and let eligibility staff decide—delaying often means losing help you could have received.
  • Missing the VIEW orientation. If you have a conflict, call and reschedule before the appointment.
  • Not uploading documents right away. A missing paystub can hold your case for weeks.
  • Ignoring child support letters. TANF usually requires cooperation with DCSE unless you have good cause (domestic violence is one example). Tell your worker if this applies. See: Virginia DCSE
  • Not reading your notices. One missed deadline can close your case.
  • Assuming a relative or roommate is part of your “assistance unit.” Ask your worker to confirm who’s counted and why—it affects your grant amount.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you hit a snag, ask to speak with a supervisor at your LDSS. If you still can’t resolve it, consider legal aid: Virginia Legal Aid

If TANF Doesn’t Cover Everything: Practical Plan B Options

Most important action: Ask your worker to help you apply for other supports at the same time.

Note: Each program has its own rules and income limits. For the most current dollar amounts and eligibility screens, use the official pages above (they update regularly). If your LDSS offers a combined interview, take it—it can save weeks.

Plan B Programs (Where to Find Current Amounts and Rules)

Program What it covers Where to find current dollar amounts and rules
Child Care Subsidy Childcare while you work, train, or attend school Child Care for Families (official)
Energy Assistance Fuel, cooling, and crisis utility help VDSS Energy Assistance
Medicaid/FAMIS Health coverage for adults and kids Cover Virginia
Local emergency aid Rent, utilities, food, transport 211 Virginia

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re denied or placed on a waitlist, ask about any prioritization rules (e.g., working parents, very low income) and check for community-based alternatives on 211 Virginia.

Local Organizations, Charities, and Support Groups (Virginia)

  • United Way/211 Virginia: Call 211 or search 211 Virginia for emergency rent, utility, and food help near you.
  • Catholic Charities (regional): Support with basic needs and case management in several Virginia regions. Use 211 Virginia to find the nearest office listing.
  • Salvation Army (local chapters): Utility/rent help and thrift support. Find local chapters through 211 Virginia.
  • Legal Aid Societies (statewide network): Help with benefits denials, family law, and landlord-tenant issues. Start here: Virginia Legal Aid.
  • Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services: The statewide hotline can connect you to local shelters and advocates; find services via 211 Virginia or ask your LDSS confidentially for a referral. In emergencies, call 911.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Tell your LDSS you need a social worker or community resource navigator. Many offices have dedicated staff or partner agencies that can make warm handoffs.

Diverse Communities: Tailored Notes and Resources

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: You’re entitled to equal service and a safe environment at your LDSS. If you experience discrimination, report it: VDSS Civil Rights and Nondiscrimination. For community support and referrals, see Equality Virginia.
  • Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask for reasonable accommodations for appointments, paperwork, and VIEW. Bring medical notes. For statewide disability resources and vocational supports, see Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) and DBHDS – Behavioral Health and Developmental Services.
  • Veteran single mothers: You may qualify for TANF and also VA/state veteran benefits. Connect with the Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS) for housing, employment, and mental health resources.
  • Immigrant and refugee single moms: Mixed‑status households can often qualify for child‑only TANF. Ask your worker what documents are needed for each family member. For newcomer help and referrals, use the state’s Office of New Americans (DHCD) and legal information from Virginia Legal Aid.
  • Tribal-specific resources: Virginia recognizes several tribes with community programs. The Secretary of the Commonwealth lists contact information for Virginia’s recognized tribes: Virginia Indians – Commonwealth information and contacts. You can receive TANF while also using tribal resources.
  • Rural single moms with limited access: If you can’t get to the office, request a phone interview and upload documents via CommonHelp or by mail. For transport to VIEW or work, ask your worker about mileage reimbursement or transit passes if available, and search 211 Virginia for local transit vouchers.
  • Single fathers: TANF is for families—fathers can qualify when they’re the primary caretaker. Rules and obligations are the same. Apply here: CommonHelp.
  • Language access: You have the right to free interpreter services and translated notices. Tell your LDSS your preferred language in writing. Learn about your rights: VDSS Civil Rights and Nondiscrimination.

Resources by Region (How to Find Local Help Fast)

Region/Area How to connect
Northern Virginia (Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Loudoun, Prince William) Use the state directory to get your office’s phone and address: LDSS directory
Hampton Roads (Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Newport News, Hampton, Portsmouth, Suffolk) Check the LDSS directory and 211 for nearby help: LDSS directory, 211 Virginia
Richmond metro and Tri-Cities Find your local office: LDSS directory
Central/Charlottesville area Use the LDSS directory and 211 for transport/childcare resources: LDSS directory, 211 Virginia
Southwest and Valley (Roanoke, Lynchburg, Danville, Harrisonburg, Bristol/Abingdon, Shenandoah) Offices and partners vary—start with the state directory: LDSS directory

Five City-Specific FAQs (Virginia)

Richmond, VA

  • Where do I apply in Richmond?
    Use the state application portal first: CommonHelp. If you want in-person help, pick “Richmond City” in the LDSS directory to get the latest address and phone number.
  • Can I do TANF and job training at Reynolds or VCU?
    Yes, education and training often count under VIEW if included in your plan. Bring your class schedule and talk to your worker about counting classroom hours and required study/lab hours. Source: VDSS TANF overview.
  • Who helps if I’m denied?
    Ask your LDSS for an appeal form or instructions, or apply for legal aid: Virginia Legal Aid. Appeals info: VDSS Appeals.

Virginia Beach, VA

  • Is there a separate office for Virginia Beach?
    Yes. Find the Virginia Beach office via the state’s LDSS directory, which lists address and phone.
  • I work seasonal hours. Will TANF close when my hours go up?
    Report changes immediately and ask your worker to recalculate. If your income rises too high, your case may close; you may still qualify for child care or other supports. Use: VDSS TANF overview.
  • Where can I find fast utility help?
    Search 211 Virginia for “utility assistance” in Virginia Beach and ask the LDSS about Energy Assistance: VDSS Energy Assistance.

Fairfax County, VA

  • Can I apply through Fairfax County’s site?
    Use the statewide portal: CommonHelp. For local office locations and hours, use the LDSS directory.
  • I’m in school at NOVA. Will VIEW let me take fewer work hours?
    VIEW plans can count approved education/training. Bring your schedule and discuss a balanced plan with your worker. Source: VDSS TANF overview.
  • Any local legal help?
    Start with the statewide intake: Virginia Legal Aid. 211 can also list nearby clinics: 211 Virginia.

Norfolk, VA

  • How do I reach the Norfolk office?
    Find current contact info via the state’s LDSS directory.
  • My car broke down. Could Diversionary Assistance help?
    Yes, if a one-time payment (like a car repair) keeps you working and off monthly TANF. Ask your worker: VDSS Diversionary Assistance.
  • I missed VIEW due to no childcare. What now?
    Tell your worker immediately and ask for conciliation and “good cause.” Ask about child care support so it doesn’t happen again. See: VDSS TANF overview.

Roanoke, VA

  • Can grandparents get TANF for grandkids?
    Yes—ask about a child-only TANF case if the child lives with you. This usually avoids VIEW and adult time limits. Source: VDSS TANF program page.
  • How long will my application take?
    Many cases are decided in about 30 days, but timing varies. Check your CommonHelp messages and call your LDSS if you haven’t heard anything after two weeks.
  • Where to get help uploading documents?
    Visit your LDSS or a local library, or ask a community partner listed on 211 Virginia.

Tables You Can Use Right Away

Table: TANF Action Plan You Can Print

Task Do this today Notes
Apply Submit on CommonHelp Don’t wait—eligibility is determined after you apply
Upload docs Take phone photos and upload same day See “Documents You’ll Likely Need” above
VIEW orientation Add date/time to your calendar Ask for child care/transport help if needed
Follow up Check messages twice weekly Ask for a supervisor if stuck
Recertify Start as soon as you get the packet Late recerts = closures

Table: Fast Links (Official Sources)

Need Link
Apply online CommonHelp (official state portal)
TANF program info VDSS TANF overview
Find local DSS office LDSS directory
Short-term alternative Diversionary Assistance (VDSS)
Child support cooperation Virginia DCSE
Energy help VDSS Energy Assistance
Health coverage Cover Virginia
Community help 211 Virginia
Appeals VDSS Appeals

Table: VIEW Good Cause Examples (Bring Proof)

Issue Examples of proof
Illness or medical limits Doctor’s note, hospital discharge papers
No child care Written denial from providers, waitlist emails
Transportation breakdown Tow/repair receipt, bus route gaps
Domestic violence Protective order, shelter letter, advocate note

Table: When to Consider Child-Only TANF

If this is you Why child-only might help
Grandparent/aunt/uncle caring for a child No adult work requirement; supports the child’s needs
Parent ineligible due to immigration status Child may still qualify
Parent receiving SSI The SSI recipient is often excluded from the assistance unit

Table: Appeal vs. Reopen vs. Reapply

Situation Best move Why
Denial you believe is wrong Appeal (follow your notice) Preserves your rights and review
Case closed for missing a document Reopen quickly (ask your LDSS) Faster than starting over
Long lapse since closure Reapply Fresh determination with current info

What to Do if You Have Problems

  • If you can’t reach your worker, call the main line for your LDSS and ask for a callback. Use the LDSS directory.
  • If you’re treated unfairly or need an interpreter, ask for the LDSS civil rights coordinator and reference your rights here: VDSS Civil Rights and Nondiscrimination.
  • If you disagree with a decision, file an appeal by the deadline in your notice (appeal windows are short). Start here: VDSS Appeals.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Virginia Department of Social Services, the Virginia Division of Child Support Enforcement, and established nonprofits.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified August 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors can still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 48 hours.

Disclaimer

Program rules, dollar amounts, and timelines can change at any time. Always verify the latest eligibility rules, benefit amounts, and deadlines with your local Department of Social Services and the official Virginia DSS websites before making decisions. Nothing here is legal advice.

Sources (Verified August 2025)

  • Virginia Department of Social Services — TANF program overview, eligibility, and how to apply: VDSS TANF overview
  • Virginia Department of Social Services — Diversionary Assistance: VDSS Diversionary Assistance
  • Virginia Department of Social Services — Find your local office: LDSS directory
  • CommonHelp — Official state application portal for TANF and related benefits: CommonHelp
  • Virginia Division of Child Support Enforcement — Cooperation requirements and services: Virginia DCSE
  • Energy Assistance Programs (Fuel, Cooling, Crisis): VDSS Energy Assistance
  • Cover Virginia — Health coverage information and applications: Cover Virginia
  • VDSS Civil Rights and Nondiscrimination — Language access and complaint process: VDSS Civil Rights
  • 211 Virginia — Search statewide local assistance: 211 Virginia

What to Do Next (30‑Minute Checklist)

  • Apply on CommonHelp.
  • Upload your ID, income proof, and kids’ birth certificates.
  • Add a calendar reminder for your VIEW orientation.
  • Bookmark your local office from the LDSS directory.
  • If you just need short-term help, ask about Diversionary Assistance.
  • Save every notice and message. If denied, appeal quickly: VDSS Appeals.

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