Where to apply for Medicaid in Virginia

In Virginia, you apply for Medicaid through the Department of Social Services (DSS), either at your local DSS office or online through the Virginia COMPASS system. COMPASS is Virginia's centralized benefits portal and handles Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, and other assistance programs in one place. You do not apply through a hospital, doctor's office, or insurance broker.

To find your local DSS office, visit the Virginia Department of Social Services website and search by county or city. You can walk in during business hours, call ahead to ask about wait times, or apply entirely online without visiting an office. Online applications through COMPASS typically move faster than in-person visits, especially if you have all required documents ready to upload.

If you are homeless or do not have a mailing address, you can still apply. Tell DSS your situation when you apply, and they will work with you on how to receive notices and documents. Some local offices have staff trained to help people without stable housing.

Key Takeaways

  • Apply through Virginia COMPASS online or at your local Department of Social Services office in person or by phone.
  • You will need proof of income, residency, citizenship or immigration status, and Social Security numbers for everyone in your household.
  • Virginia has expanded Medicaid to adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level, which is roughly $1,927 per month for a single person (amounts change yearly).
  • Processing typically takes 30 to 45 days, but can be faster if you submit all documents upfront.
  • If you are denied, you have the right to request a fair hearing within 30 days of the denial letter.

Documents you need before you start

Gather these documents before you begin your application. Having them ready cuts processing time significantly. If you are missing something, DSS will tell you what is needed, but the application will not move forward until you provide it.

Proof of income: Recent pay stubs (last 30 days), tax returns, or a letter from your employer stating your income. If you are self-employed, bring tax returns from the last two years. If you receive unemployment, Social Security, or other benefits, bring the award letter or most recent statement. If you have no income, bring a statement explaining that.

Proof of residency: A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and Virginia address dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or insurance bill also works.

Proof of citizenship or immigration status: A birth certificate, passport, naturalization papers, or valid visa. If you do not have these documents, tell DSS — they can sometimes verify status through other means, but the process takes longer.

Social Security numbers: For yourself and everyone in your household, even children and babies. If someone does not have a number, DSS will help you understand your options.

Upload documents directly into COMPASS if you apply online, or bring originals or copies to your local office. DSS will make copies for you if you bring originals.

Income limits and what counts as income

Virginia's Medicaid program covers adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level. For 2024, that means a single person can earn roughly $1,927 per month and still be within the income limit. A family of three can earn roughly $4,077 per month. These amounts change each year when the federal poverty level updates, usually in January.

Income includes wages, self-employment earnings, Social Security, unemployment benefits, child support, and rental income. It does not include food stamps (SNAP), housing assistance, or most one-time payments like tax refunds or insurance settlements. If you receive irregular income — seasonal work, gig work, or freelance pay — DSS will average it over the past three months.

If your income is above the limit, you may still be able to get coverage through Virginia's marketplace plans, which are separate from Medicaid. You can also reapply if your income drops later.

How long approval takes and what happens next

Most applications are processed within 30 to 45 days. If you submit all required documents upfront, approval can happen in as little as two weeks. If DSS needs more information from you, they will send a notice asking what is missing and give you a deadline to respond — usually 10 days. If you miss the deadline, your application may be denied, but you can reapply.

Once you are approved, DSS will send you a Medicaid card by mail. The card shows your member ID number and the date your coverage begins. Coverage usually starts on the first day of the month after you are approved, though in some cases it can be backdated to cover medical bills from before your approval date.

After approval, you will need to report changes to DSS — a new job, a move, a change in household size, or a change in income. You can report changes online through COMPASS, by phone, or in person. Failing to report changes can result in your coverage being canceled or you being asked to repay benefits.

What to do if you are denied

If DSS denies your application, they will send you a letter explaining why. Common reasons include income above the limit, not providing required documents, or not meeting residency requirements. The letter will also tell you that you have the right to request a fair hearing within 30 days.

A fair hearing is a chance to present your case to an independent hearing officer who will review DSS's decision. You can attend in person, by phone, or by video. You can bring documents, witnesses, or a representative — a lawyer, advocate, or trusted person who knows your situation. You do not have to hire a lawyer, though legal aid organizations in Virginia offer free representation to people who cannot afford it.

To request a fair hearing, contact your local DSS office or call the Virginia Department of Social Services. Include your name, case number (from the denial letter), and a brief statement of why you think the decision was wrong. The hearing usually happens within 30 to 60 days.

Applying by phone or mail if you cannot go online

If you do not have internet access or prefer not to apply online, call your local DSS office and ask to apply by phone. A caseworker will ask you questions and fill out the application for you. You will still need to mail or bring in documents, but the application itself can be completed over the phone.

You can also request a paper application by mail. Call DSS, give them your address, and they will mail you the form. Fill it out, sign it, and mail it back with copies of your documents. This method is slower — allow extra time for mail delivery — but it works if you need it.

If you need help filling out an application, contact a local legal aid organization or community action agency. Many offer free assistance with Medicaid applications and can help you gather documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for Medicaid if I am not a U.S. citizen?

It depends on your immigration status. Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) and certain other immigrants can get Medicaid. Undocumented immigrants cannot get regular Medicaid, but Virginia does have a limited program for emergency medical care. Contact your local DSS office or a legal aid organization to learn what you may be able to access.

What if my income is above the limit but I still need coverage?

You may be able to buy a plan through Virginia's health insurance marketplace at healthcare.gov. Depending on your income, you might receive a tax credit that lowers your monthly premium. You can also reapply for Medicaid if your income drops later.

How do I check the status of my application?

Log into Virginia COMPASS with your username and password to see your application status. You can also call your local DSS office and ask a caseworker. Have your case number ready if you call.

Can I apply if I am already covered by my employer's health insurance?

Yes. Having other insurance does not disqualify you from Medicaid. Medicaid can cover costs that your employer plan does not, like copays and deductibles. Tell DSS about your employer coverage when you apply.

What happens if my circumstances change after I am approved?

You must report changes to DSS within 30 days. Changes include a new job, a raise or pay cut, a move, a new household member, or a household member leaving. Report changes through COMPASS, by phone, or in person. Failing to report can result in your coverage being canceled or you being asked to repay overpayments.