How to apply for Auxiliary Grant (Assisted Living & Adult Foster Care Supplement) in Virginia

Who it's for

The Auxiliary Grant adds to the income of adults who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled and live in a licensed assisted living facility, approved adult foster care home, or approved supportive housing that accepts the grant. For 2026 the maximum rate is $2,130 a month ($2,450 in Northern Virginia's Planning District 8), plus an $87 personal needs allowance. Assets must be less than $2,000 for one person or $3,000 for a couple, and monthly income below the grant rate plus the allowance. Apply at the local Department of Social Services.

What you'll need

• Proof of income
• Bank account statements
• List of personal assets
• Identification
• Proof of citizenship
• Social Security number

Where to apply

Step by step

1. Confirm that you live in — or are moving into — a licensed assisted living facility, an approved adult foster care home, or approved supportive housing that accepts the Auxiliary Grant. This program does not apply to other living situations.
2. Gather your required documents: proof of income, bank account statements, a list of personal assets, a government-issued ID, proof of citizenship, and your Social Security number.
3. Check that your assets are below $2,000 (for one person) or $3,000 (for a couple), and that your monthly income is below the grant rate plus the $87 personal needs allowance.
4. Apply online through Virginia's online application portal. The local Department of Social Services for your area will receive and review your application.
5. After submitting, follow up with your local Department of Social Services if you have questions about your application status or need an estimate of processing time, as processing times vary.

What to expect: After you submit your application, your local Department of Social Services will review your information and make the final eligibility decision — so approval is not guaranteed even if you appear to qualify. A caseworker may contact you if additional documents or details are needed, and processing times vary, so ask your local office for an estimate. If approved, the Auxiliary Grant is renewed annually, so be prepared to provide updated income, asset, and residency information each year to keep your benefits active.

Renewals

annual