Virginia Seniors Missing Out on SNAP Benefits

Photo byUnited States Department of Agriculture

WINCHESTER, VA - In Virginia, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides essential support to low-income seniors, helping them secure food and improve their quality of life.

According to the National Council on Aging, despite this, a significant number of older adults in Virginia remain unenrolled.

Nationally, about 60% of eligible seniors are not taking advantage of SNAP, leaving approximately 5 million older adults across the country without these crucial benefits.

For Virginia seniors who do participate in SNAP, the average monthly benefit is around $118, though many could receive more by utilizing deductions for medical expenses, according to the National Council on Aging.

According to the National Council on Aging, unfortunately, only 16% of seniors use the excess medical expense deduction, which allows out-of-pocket medical costs over $35 to be deducted from gross income, potentially increasing their monthly SNAP benefits.

Beyond helping seniors access food, SNAP also boosts Virginia’s local economy—every $1 in SNAP benefits generates an estimated $1.79 in economic activity.

Moreover, access to SNAP reduces healthcare costs, as seniors who receive benefits are less likely to be hospitalized or require nursing home care.

Virginia seniors can check their SNAP eligibility and apply through the NCOA's BenefitsCheckUp tool, simplifying the process for those seeking assistance.