Virginia offers multiple benefit programs for individuals with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and developmental disability waivers. This guide covers eligibility, application steps, income limits, and state-specific resources for ALS patients.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) requires a strong work history—you typically need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years, though ALS may qualify for expedited processing under the Compassionate Allowances program. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) helps those with limited income and assets, with no work requirement. Both programs require medical evidence that ALS limits your ability to work for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. The Social Security Administration uses a five-step evaluation process to decide claims, including non-medical factors like income and past work[1][7].
Virginia follows federal SSI/SSDI guidelines, and qualifying for SSI in Virginia makes you automatically eligible for Medicaid. For Medicaid itself (Aged, Blind, or Disabled/ABD category), you must meet income and resource limits, and ALS is a qualifying disability category. Virginia also offers Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services waivers, but these are primarily for developmental disabilities—ALS is a neurodegenerative condition and may not always fit under developmental waivers, so it’s important to contact your local Community Services Board for personalized advice. There are currently no work requirements for Medicaid if you receive disability benefits[5][6]. For state waivers, you may not qualify under developmental disability criteria, but you may qualify under other Medicaid or state programs—always check directly with Virginia agencies[2][6].
1. Gather Documentation: Collect your medical records, work history, and proof of income and assets. For ALS, include your diagnosis and doctor’s notes about your condition. 2. Apply for SSDI and/or SSI:
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly cash assistance for those with limited income/resources, up to $967 for individuals in 2025 (national rate)[3]. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments based on your work history; family members may also qualify. Medicaid: Health coverage for low-income individuals with disabilities. Medicare: Available after 24 months of SSDI payments. All federal programs have income/asset limits—see our SSI vs SSDI guide for details[3][7].
Virginia Medicaid for Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD): Provides health coverage to low-income individuals with ALS. If you qualify for SSI, you’re automatically eligible for Medicaid. Virginia does not add a state supplement to SSI—you receive the federal rate only[1][6]. Developmental Disability (DD) Waivers: These waivers offer home and community-based services, but ALS is not always classified as a developmental disability—contact your local Community Services Board for guidance on eligibility and waitlists[2]. No State Disability Payment: Virginia does not have a separate state disability payment program; all disability cash assistance comes from federal SSI and SSDI[1]. State ABLE Program: Virginia offers the ABLEnow savings program for eligible individuals with disabilities—learn more in our ABLE Accounts guide. State-specific information is limited for ALS; start with the Virginia Medicaid ABD program and your local Community Services Board for the most relevant help[2][6].
Virginia ABLEnow: ABLE accounts let you save up to $100,000 without affecting SSI eligibility. Earnings are tax-free if used for qualified disability expenses. Apply online at ABLEnow.gov. See our ABLE Accounts guide for more.
SSI (2025): Up to $967/month for individuals, $1,450 for couples (federal maximum; Virginia does not add a state supplement). SSDI: No set maximum; your payment is based on your earnings record. Medicaid (ABD): Income limits depend on household size; assets are also counted. Some deductions and exclusions apply[1][3][6].
Report all changes in income, living situation, or health to Social Security and Medicaid—not reporting can lead to overpayments, which you may have to repay. See our Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide for details and tips.
ALS qualifies for expedited Social Security Disability approval under the Compassionate Allowances program. This means your application may be processed much faster than standard disability claims.
Yes, ALS meets the medical criteria for both SSDI and SSI. The Social Security Administration often expedites applications for ALS through its Compassionate Allowances program.
Yes, if you qualify for SSI, you are automatically eligible for Medicaid in Virginia[1][3][6].
While ALS is not typically classified as a developmental disability, you may qualify for Medicaid’s Aged, Blind, or Disabled program. Contact your local Community Services Board or Cover Virginia for guidance on waivers[2][6].
No, Virginia only pays the federal SSI amount—$967/month for individuals in 2025[1][3].
Apply for SSDI/SSI online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person. Gather medical records and proof of income. If you need Medicaid, apply through Cover Virginia or inquire at your local Social Security office[1][6].
Yes, both have income and asset limits. For SSI in 2025, an individual can receive up to $967/month if income and resources are within federal limits. Medicaid’s ABD program has similar limits—check with Cover Virginia for details[1][3][6].
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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You can use SSI/SSDI work incentives to test your ability to work without immediately losing benefits. The SGA (Substantial Gainful Activity) limit for 2025 is projected to be $1,530/month for non-blind individuals—earnings above that may affect benefits[1][4].
Certain family members may be eligible for auxiliary benefits under SSDI, depending on your work history and their relationship to you. SSI only provides benefits to the disabled individual[3][7].
You can appeal the decision. The process includes reconsideration, a hearing before an administrative law judge, and further appeals. Start the appeal as soon as you receive your denial letter.
Contact your local Social Security office for federal benefits. For Medicaid and waiver questions, reach out to your local Community Services Board or Cover Virginia[2][6].
