How to Renew or Recertify SNAP in West Virginia

Renewing SNAP benefits in West Virginia (also called recertification) is how you show the state that you still qualify for help with groceries. If you do not complete this process on time, your EBT card can stop working, even if you’re still eligible.

This guide explains how SNAP recertification usually works in West Virginia, what to expect, and how to move forward through official state channels. HowToGetAssistance.org is not a government office or application site, but you can use this information to be better prepared when you contact your local West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS) office or use the official benefits portal.

SNAP Recertification in West Virginia: The Basics

In West Virginia, SNAP is managed by the West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS). When you are approved for SNAP, you receive benefits for a set certification period (often several months). Before that period ends, you must:

• Submit a renewal/recertification form, and
• Complete an interview, if required, and
• Provide proof of income and other details again

If you complete these steps on time and still qualify, your benefits usually continue without a break. If you miss deadlines, your case can close, and you may have to reapply as a new applicant.

How to Know When It’s Time to Renew

1. Check Your Notice

West Virginia DoHS typically mails a recertification notice before your current benefits end. This notice usually includes:

• When your certification period ends
• The deadline to submit your renewal
• How you can renew (online, by mail, in person, etc.)
• Whether an interview is required

If you are unsure, you can:

• Call your local DoHS office
• Call the customer service number listed on your SNAP paperwork or EBT card
• Log into the official West Virginia online benefits portal, if you already use it

2. Understand the Deadline

In many cases, West Virginia expects you to submit your recertification about 15 days before your current certification period ends to avoid a gap. Exact timing can vary, so rely on the date shown on your official notice.

Important:
If you submit your renewal after the deadline but before your certification period officially ends, your benefits might be delayed but may still restart after processing. If you miss both the deadline and the end date, your case will typically close, and you might need to submit a new application.

Ways to Renew SNAP in West Virginia

West Virginia generally offers several ways to recertify. Availability can vary slightly by county, so always confirm with your local office or the official portal.

1. Renew SNAP Online

Many households in West Virginia can complete SNAP renewal through the official West Virginia benefits portal. Using the portal, you can usually:

• Complete the recertification form
• Upload verification documents electronically
• Check for messages or appointments related to your case

You’ll need:

• Your login information for the portal
• Personal details to verify your identity (such as date of birth, SSN last 4 digits)

If you do not yet have an account, the portal usually allows you to create one and link it to your existing case using identifying information from your SNAP paperwork.

2. Renew by Mail or Fax

If you prefer paper:

1. Get the SNAP recertification form:
   • From your recertification notice (often included)
   • By requesting one from your local DoHS office
2. Fill it out completely and sign it.
3. Mail or fax it to the address or fax number for your county office listed on your notice or on official WV DoHS materials.

To avoid delays:

• Mail it early enough so it arrives before the deadline.
• Keep a copy of what you send, and, if possible, a mailing receipt or fax confirmation.

3. Renew In Person

You can typically renew by visiting your local West Virginia DoHS office:

• Ask for a SNAP recertification form
• Fill it out and return it to the front desk or designated intake staff
• You may be able to complete an interview the same day, depending on staffing and office procedures

In busy periods, you may need an appointment. Calling ahead can help you know office hours, appointment options, and any required documents.

4. Renew by Phone (Where Allowed)

Some counties or situations may allow you to complete an interview and certain parts of the renewal by phone, especially for older adults or people with disabilities. Generally:

• You may still need to submit documents by mail, fax, online upload, or in person
• Phone renewals are often arranged through your caseworker or the DoHS customer service line

Always confirm with your local office whether a phone renewal or interview is available in your situation.

Documents You May Need for SNAP Recertification

For recertification, West Virginia usually needs updated proofs of the same types of information you gave when you first applied.

Common documents include:

Identity & Household:

• Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, etc.)
• Social Security numbers for household members (or proof of application, if new)
• Birth certificates or other proof of identity, if requested

Income:

• Recent pay stubs (usually the last 4 weeks)
• Self-employment records or profit-and-loss statements, if applicable
• Unemployment benefit letters
• Social Security award letters or pension statements
• Proof of child support received or paid

Expenses (can affect your benefit amount):

• Rent or mortgage statement
• Utility bills (electric, gas, water, trash, heating fuel)
• Property tax and homeowner’s insurance bills, if you own your home
• Childcare costs (receipts, provider statements)
• Medical expenses for elderly or disabled household members (prescription receipts, copay bills, medical insurance premiums)

Not every household will be asked for every item. Your recertification notice may list specific documents requested.

Quick Document Checklist

Having these ready before you start the renewal can make things go faster and reduce the risk of delays.

Step-by-Step: Typical SNAP Recertification Process in West Virginia

1. Watch for Your Recertification Notice

   • Arrives by mail and/or in your online account.
   • Check the due date and any interview requirements.

2. Gather Your Documents

   • Update income and expense records.
   • Collect proof for any changes since your last approval (new job, different rent, new household member, etc.).

3. Submit the Recertification Form

   • Online through the official benefits portal,
   • By mail, fax, or in person through your local DoHS office, depending on what’s available to you.
   • Sign and date the form; incomplete or unsigned forms can cause delays.

4. Complete the Interview (if required)

   • Interviews may be by phone or in person.
   • A caseworker will review your information, ask about any changes, and may request additional documents.
   • If you miss your scheduled interview, contact the office as soon as possible to reschedule.

5. Submit Any Additional Documents Requested

   • If the caseworker asks for more verification, respond by the deadline given in the follow-up notice.
   • Late documents are a common cause of case closure.

6. Wait for the Decision Notice

   • You should receive a notice of decision that shows:
     • Whether your case is approved for another period,
     • Your monthly benefit amount, and
     • The new certification period dates.
   • If your benefits change or end, the notice should explain why.

How to Report Changes During Recertification

If something has changed since your last approval, you’re generally required to report it to DoHS, especially during recertification. Examples include:

• New job or loss of a job
• Change in work hours or pay rate
• Change in household members (someone moves in or out, birth of a child)
• Moving to a new address
• Major changes in rent, utilities, or childcare costs
• Someone in the household becomes disabled or starts receiving disability benefits

Reporting changes accurately helps ensure your benefit amount is correct and can prevent overpayments you might be asked to pay back later.

Common Reasons SNAP Renewals Get Delayed or Denied

Understanding common trouble spots can help you avoid them.

1. Missing the Deadline

• Not returning the renewal form on time
• Not completing the interview before the end of your certification period

2. Incomplete Forms

• Leaving key sections blank (income, household members)
• Not signing or dating the form

3. Missing Documents

• Not sending pay stubs, proof of rent, or other requested verification
• Sending blurry or unreadable copies (for online uploads or faxes)

4. Unreported or Unclear Income

• Income shown in documents doesn’t match what’s reported on the form
• Self-employment income with no clear records

5. Changes That Affect Eligibility

• Household income rises above SNAP income limits
• Household size decreases without updated expense information

If your renewal is denied or your benefits stop, the decision notice should tell you why and how to appeal or reapply.

What If Your SNAP Benefits Stop After Recertification?

If your EBT card stops working around the time of renewal:

1. Check Your Mail and Online Account

   • Look for a notice explaining whether your case was closed or if more information is needed.

2. Contact Your Local DoHS Office Quickly

   • Ask if your recertification was received.
   • Ask whether they need additional documents.
   • Ask whether you can submit anything late to reopen your case.

3. If You Missed the Recertification Window

   • You may need to submit a brand-new SNAP application through the official portal, by mail, or in person.
   • Ask the office whether you can get expedited processing based on your current income and resources.

How Appeals Usually Work in West Virginia SNAP

If you believe your SNAP renewal was wrongly denied, reduced, or closed, you usually have the right to request a fair hearing.

Typical steps:

1. Read Your Denial or Closure Notice

   • It should explain:
     • The reason for the decision
     • The deadline to file an appeal
     • How to request a hearing (by phone, mail, or form)

2. Request a Hearing by the Deadline

   • Follow the instructions in the notice.
   • It’s often safest to submit your request in writing and keep a copy.

3. Prepare for the Hearing

   • Gather documents that support your position (income proof, rent receipts, letters, etc.).
   • You may be able to bring someone with you or ask for free or low-cost legal help through a legal aid organization in West Virginia.

4. Attend the Hearing

   • A hearing officer or similar official will review your case.
   • You can explain why you believe the decision was incorrect and present evidence.

Appeal rules, including timelines and options, are set by state SNAP policies, so the details in your notice are the most reliable guide.

If You Do Not Qualify or Need Extra Help

If your SNAP benefits end or your renewal is denied, there may be other resources in West Virginia:

• Local food pantries and food banks – Often run by charities, religious organizations, and community groups
• Community meal programs – Soup kitchens, senior meal sites, or community centers
• WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) – For eligible pregnant people, new parents, and young children
• School meal programs – Free or reduced-price breakfasts and lunches for eligible students
• 211 helpline – Dialing 211 in most areas connects you with information about local food resources and assistance programs

These programs have their own eligibility rules and application steps. Contact the organization directly or call 211 for help locating services near you.

How to Make Sure You’re Using Official Channels

Because SNAP is a public benefit program, it’s important to make sure you’re dealing with real government offices, not scams.

Here are some tips:

• Do not pay anyone to “guarantee” SNAP approval or renewal. Legitimate SNAP application assistance is typically free.
• Check that websites you use clearly show they are part of the State of West Virginia or the federal government (for example, .gov addresses).
• When in doubt, call your local DoHS office using a phone number listed on:
  • Your SNAP approval or recertification notice
  • Your EBT paperwork
  • Official West Virginia state directories
• Be cautious about sharing your Social Security number, date of birth, or EBT card information with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly by phone, text, or social media.
• If someone claims to be your caseworker and you’re unsure, hang up and call your local DoHS office directly using a number you trust.

Remember: HowToGetAssistance.org is not an official SNAP portal or government agency. To actually renew or recertify your SNAP in West Virginia, you must go through the West Virginia Department of Human Services, either online, by mail, or in person at a local office.

Using this guide, you can be better prepared with the right documents, know your deadlines, and understand what to expect as you complete your renewal through official state channels.