Virginia § 63.2-523 - Unauthorized use of food stamps, electronic benefit transfer cards, and energy assistance prohibited; penalties
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 63.2-523 — Unauthorized use of food stamps, electronic benefit transfer cards, and energy assistance prohibited; penalties, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 63.2-523. Unauthorized use of food stamps, electronic benefit transfer cards, and energy assistance prohibited; penalties
Whoever knowingly and with intent to defraud transfers, acquires, alters, traffics in or uses, or aids or abets another person in transferring, acquiring, altering, trafficking in, using, or possessing food stamps, electronic benefit transfer cards or other devices subject to Consumer Financial Protection Bureau regulations regarding Electronic Fund Transfers, 12 C.F.R. § 1005.1 et seq., or benefits from energy assistance programs, or possesses food coupons, authorization to purchase cards, electronic benefit transfer cards or other devices subject to Consumer Financial Protection Bureau regulations regarding Electronic Fund Transfers, 12 C.F.R. § 1005.1 et seq., or benefits from energy assistance programs in any manner not authorized by law is guilty of larceny.
A violation of this section may be prosecuted either in the county or city where the public assistance was granted or in the county or city where the violation occurred.
1975, c. 388, § 63.1-124.1; 1978, c. 731; 1984, c. 535; 1994, c. 249; 2002, c. 747; 2016, c. 501.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 63.2-523
What does Code of Virginia § 63.2-523 cover?
Section 63.2-523 ("Unauthorized use of food stamps, electronic benefit transfer cards, and energy assistance prohibited; penalties") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 63.2-523?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 63.2-523" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 63.2-523 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.