Q.  What is Norfolk ACCESS?

A.  Norfolk Automated Community Care Eligibility Screening System (ACCESS) is an online services/information directory and guide to Federal, State and Community Resources that can help you connect with providers who offer basic housing, food, day care, transportation, benefits information and much more. From the office, the local library, or anywhere, you can access the Internet, the answers to your questions are at your fingertips.

Q.  Why use Norfolk ACCESS?

A.   The purpose of Norfolk ACCESS is to create an easy way for customers and providers to have access to current information relating to health services, human service programs, employment and training. Norfolk ACCESS brings everything together in one place. This information is easy to access.

Q.  Will my information be confidential?

A.  All information entered through Norfolk ACCESS is completely confidential. None of your answers are recorded anywhere. You may send your name, however this is totally optional.

Q.  What do I need to bring to an interview?

A.  You are not required to have anything with you in order to make an application. However, bringing the following items can speed up the process. While there are some differences between programs, you may need to verify your identity, provide a Social Security number for all household members, verify any resource (i.e. bank or credit union accounts, retirement accounts, stocks or bonds, real estate, vehicles, etc.), provide proof of gross monthly income for all household members and proof of your residence. In addition, any person that is not a U.S. citizen must verify alien status. For Food Stamps, we also need to evaluate your rent or mortgage payment and any utility expenses. Persons who are disabled or age 60 and above should also provide proof of any medical expenses. For TANF, you need to verify the date of birth and your relationship to children for whom you are applying.

Q.  I work. Can I still get benefits?

A.  All recipients are encouraged to work and support their family and most do. In fact, an able-bodied adult with no minor child in the home is permitted to receive Food Stamps for only 3 months in a 36 month period unless participating in a work activity for at least 20 hours a week. Your benefit amount will depend on the size of your household and the amount of income you earn. A parent who receives TANF must participate in an employment program called VIEW (Virginia Initiative for Employment not Welfare) once their youngest child turns 18 months old. Once enrolled in VIEW, their TANF benefits are subject to time limits. Child daycare services are available for most working families.

Q. How long does it take to get benefits?

A.  Processing requirements vary by program. TANF, Medicaid and General Relief require action within 45 days. An application for Medicaid for a pregnant woman must be processed within 10 days following receipt of all requested verifications. SNAP (formerly Food Stamps) and SLH applications must be completed within 30 days. Persons who meet certain criteria for SNAP (Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program) are entitled to expedited processing within 7 days.