Applications for West Virginia’s School Clothing Allowance will open Monday, July 20, state officials announced, giving eligible families a one-time benefit to buy school clothing for the coming year.
The program, which had been paused amid questions about federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funding, will accept entries through Aug. 15, 2026, or until funds are exhausted, whichever occurs first. Each eligible child will receive a $200 benefit delivered to the recipient’s electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card.
Who can apply and how
The allowance is available to students enrolled in West Virginia schools who meet the program’s income limits. Families must provide verification of income for July 2026 when submitting an application.
- Apply online through the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DoHS) portal.
- Request a paper application from a local DoHS office.
- Call 1-877-716-1212 to request a form or get assistance.
“We are doing this the right way, and we’re working to make funding streams last. COVID-era reliance on one-time money helped create these challenges, so now we are working to put this program on solid footing. Starting July 20, West Virginia families can apply for the School Clothing Allowance,”
Those chosen to receive benefits will get payments on an EBT card, which allows for online purchases and a broader choice of vendors when buying clothing or fabrics for families who sew garments at home.
Income limit and key figures
The state released the program’s income threshold for eligibility: the monthly gross income for a family of four may not exceed $3,483. Applicants must include proof of July 2026 income with their submission.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Application window | July 20–Aug. 15, 2026 (or until funds run out) |
| Payment per eligible child | $200 via EBT |
| Income limit (family of 4) | $3,483 monthly (verification of July 2026 income required) |
What this means for families
For low- and moderate-income households, the allowance offers a modest boost to cover school clothing costs or materials for families who sew. The EBT delivery method is intended to increase flexibility, permitting online purchases and access to more retailers.
State officials framed the move as a decision to stabilize the program’s funding after temporary COVID-era federal money created uncertainty in prior years. Applicants should file early in the 26-day window because payments will be distributed until available funds are fully allocated.
For more information or to begin an application, visit the West Virginia DoHS website, contact a local DoHS office, or call 1-877-716-1212.
