Residents of Virginia who participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and hold an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card have access to a variety of discounts and free services beyond purchasing groceries. Additionally, recent developments regarding federal funding may impact the distribution of monthly benefits. The following guide details available perks, essential card management procedures, and current updates affecting SNAP recipients in the Commonwealth.
Federal Shutdown Impact on November 2025 Benefits
Virginia SNAP recipients may face delays in receiving their benefits for November 2025 due to a federal government shutdown. According to officials, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has notified the Commonwealth that November SNAP benefits cannot be issued at this time.
Bedford County officials clarified that SNAP benefits already loaded onto EBT cards can still be used to purchase food during the shutdown. However, November benefits will not be distributed to EBT cards unless additional guidance is received from the federal government before the end of the month. This is described as a nationwide issue impacting all SNAP households that cannot be appealed by recipients. Residents are advised to monitor official channels for updates regarding the release of these funds.
Museums and Cultural Attractions
The "Museums for All" initiative is a significant program that makes museums accessible to families regardless of financial status. Through this program, anyone who receives SNAP benefits is eligible to access over 1,000 museums nationwide for a discounted rate (typically no more than $3) by simply presenting their EBT card.
Richmond Area Participants
In the Richmond area, ten institutions participate in the Museums for All program, offering specific admission rates for EBT cardholders:
- Agecroft Hall & Gardens: FREE admission.
- Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden: $1 admission; Youth 17 & under: FREE.
- Science Museum of Virginia: $2 for adults; $1 for seniors, youth, and preschoolers. Alternatively, $25 provides two adults and all children under 18 in the household with a year of free Museum admission.
- Virginia Museum of Fine Arts: $2 per ticket for special exhibitions (limit of 4 tickets). The VMFA also offers FREE Open Studio Sundays once a month.
- Maymont: FREE admission to the Robins Nature Center and historic audio tours for the cardholder and three others.
- Children’s Museum of Richmond: $2 admission for up to 6 individuals.
- The Valentine: FREE admission for up to 4 individuals.
- The Poe Museum: $3 admission.
- Virginia Museum of History & Culture: During the summer, the VMHC offers FREE programming for children.
Norfolk Area Participants
In Norfolk, EBT and Medicaid cardholders can access various cultural and recreational discounts:
- Norfolk Botanical Garden: Guests receive free admission into the Garden for up to 6 people total with a Medicaid card.
- Virginia Arts Festival: $10 for select performances.
- Virginia Opera: Pay-What-You-Wish pricing starting at $5 per ticket per person. This is redeemable at the box office by presenting SNAP, EBT, Medicaid, or other proof of public assistance.
- Virginia Stage Company: Discounts are available (specific details not provided in source).
- Virginia Zoo: Adults & Children admission is $7 (children under 2 are free). A Household Membership is $49 for the year, which includes benefits similar to the Two Adult Household category. A valid Medicaid or qualifying insurance card must be presented upon arrival for each person included on the membership.
Other Discounts and Services
Beyond museums, Virginia offers various other discounts and services accessible through EBT or Medicaid verification.
Recreation and Facilities
- Norfolk Department of Parks & Recreation:
- Facility Use Cards: Adult (18-64): $20 annually; Youth (5-17): $10 annually; Family (Adult + 3 or more): $50 annually.
- Daily Facility Entry: $2.
- S.O.A.R. After School program: Grades K-5: $40/month; Grades 6-8: $20/month.
- Seven Venues: $6 off blue level tickets and $2 off gold, red, and white level tickets.
Transportation and General Perks
According to broader program information, EBT cardholders can access several general perks: * Transportation: Many places offer free or reduced bus and subway passes, bike share memberships, and discounted ride-sharing services in select cities. Free transportation to job interviews is also available through workforce programs. Residents should talk to their local SNAP office to find out more about free and reduced public transit options. * Propel App: EBT cardholders who download the Propel app can access special coupons and partnerships, along with updates about upcoming deposits and changes to SNAP.
Managing Your EBT Card and Benefits
Proper management of an EBT card is essential for accessing benefits and maintaining security.
Replacing Lost or Stolen Cards
If an EBT card is lost or stolen, recipients should call the Virginia EBT hotline immediately at 1-866-281-2448.
Benefit Theft and Reimbursement
If benefits are stolen off an EBT card (electronically, through skimming or phishing), recipients should call the Virginia EBT hotline at 1-866-281-2448. The state may require the recipient to change their PIN, report the card stolen, and/or request a new card.
Reimbursement eligibility exists for benefits electronically stolen between October 2022 and December 20, 2024. Recipients may be eligible to apply for reimbursement, and they should learn more about their state’s specific process.
Checking Balances and Deposit Schedules
Recipients can check their EBT balance and find out when they will receive their food stamps. Virginia sends out benefits from the 1st to the 9th of every month, based on the last digit of the case number. A full deposit schedule is available to help determine the specific day benefits will be deposited.
Reporting Changes
Recipients must report certain household changes to maintain their benefits: * Reportable Changes: Anyone moving in or out of the household; financial changes like income, rent, savings, or child support; and work changes for adults without disabilities or children (ABAWDs) who are required to work or train 20 hours per week. * Reporting Deadline: Most households must report all changes no more than 10 days after they happen. Caseworkers can confirm which specific rules apply to a household. * Reporting Method: Changes can be reported online with a CommonHelp account.
Renewing Benefits
Most Virginia households have a certification period of 6 to 12 months. Recipients will receive a letter in the mail when it is time to reapply. Benefits can be renewed online with a CommonHelp account or in person by calling the caseworker, local office, or the Virginia SNAP hotline at 1-800-552-3431.
What Can Be Purchased with EBT?
EBT benefits are intended for specific purchases. Recipients can use food stamps to buy: * Groceries * Snacks * Seeds or plants that will produce food
Recipients cannot use food stamps to buy: * Alcohol * Tobacco products * Vitamins * Live animals * Prepared foods * Non-food household items
WIC Food Packages
For those eligible for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), food packages typically include: * Cereal * Juice * Eggs * Milk * Peanut butter * Dried and canned beans * Tofu * Fruits and vegetables * Whole-wheat bread
Conclusion
Virginia EBT cardholders have access to a robust network of discounts and free admissions to museums, gardens, and cultural venues through the Museums for All initiative and other local programs. However, recipients should remain vigilant regarding the potential for benefit delays in November 2025 due to the federal government shutdown. By understanding how to manage their cards, report changes, and utilize available perks, SNAP participants can maximize the value of their benefits.