Social Services

The Portsmouth Department of Social Services touches the lives of our Citizens by providing quality services that address the health and welfare needs of the community; while promoting self-sufficiency and encouraging all people to be the best they can be.

Applying for Benefits


There are 3 ways citizens can apply for benefits:
  1. Through the Cover Virginia Call Center at 855-242-8282
  2. Through the Customer Portal called CommonHelp on the Virginia CommonHelp website
  3. Through a paper application retrieved at our building or online