What benefits can servers get in Virginia?

VirginiaVerified September 23, 2026

The short answer

A refundable state EITC, Medicaid expansion, and a state marketplace. Virginia’s refundable credit equals 20% of your federal EITC, now extended through tax year 2029. Adults 19 to 64 with income under 138% of the poverty level, $1,836 a month for one person, can get Medicaid. Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace has replaced HealthCare.gov and is the only place to get premium tax credits.

The rule in Virginia

Refundable Virginia EITC20% of your federal EITC, paid even if it’s more than your tax. Extended through tax year 2029.
Other low-income optionsA nonrefundable 20% EITC, or a credit of up to $300 per exemption if your family’s Virginia AGI is below the poverty guidelines. You can claim only one; use Schedule ADJ.
Medicaid expansionAdults 19 to 64 with income under 138% of the poverty level: $22,025 a year or $1,836 a month for one person. Work and community engagement requirements start January 2027.
Virginia’s Insurance MarketplaceReplaced HealthCare.gov as the state’s exchange, and it’s the only place to get premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions for marketplace plans.
“It is the only place Virginians can access financial help, such as premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions, for Qualified Health Plans (QHPs).” (Virginia SCC: Virginia Health Benefit Exchange)

What’s different in Virginia

Virginia’s help for a low-wage worker runs mostly through the tax return and health coverage. The refundable EITC was set to end after 2026; the 2026 budget kept it at 20% through 2029, so it’s there for the next few filing seasons.

Pick the right credit. Virginia makes you choose one of three low-income credits, and only the refundable EITC can pay you more than the tax you owe; compare all three on Schedule ADJ. For coverage, apply through Virginia’s own marketplace rather than HealthCare.gov. Plus the federal programs.

Official sources

Last verified

. Checked the agency pages linked above.

Still open: We didn’t find a Virginia paid family leave program or a sick leave law covering restaurant workers on the state pages we read.

Related

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