People with asthma in Virginia may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including Medicaid, SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid waivers. These programs help cover medical costs, provide income support, and offer home and community-based services.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, your asthma must be severe enough to prevent you from working and must be expected to last at least 12 months. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. SSDI requires a work history and enough work credits. Both programs require medical proof of your condition and its impact on your ability to work. Medicaid for people with disabilities is available if you meet income and disability criteria.
Sources: Social Security Administration, The Arc of Virginia
Date accessed: 2025-11-06
In Virginia, people with asthma may qualify for Medicaid if they are aged, blind, or disabled (ABD). Virginia also offers Medicaid waivers for people with developmental disabilities, but these are not typically for asthma unless there are co-occurring conditions. State employees may be eligible for the Virginia Sickness and Disability Program (VSDP), which provides income protection for non-work-related illnesses like asthma. Local Community Services Boards (CSBs) can help with applications and provide information on available services.
Sources: Virginia Medicaid, Virginia Retirement System, Virginia Medicaid Waivers
Date accessed: 2025-11-06
Start here: SSA.gov, CoverVA, CSB Locator
Date accessed: 2025-11-06
Sources: SSA.gov, CoverVA, Virginia Medicaid Waivers, Virginia Retirement System
Date accessed: 2025-11-06
Sources: SSA.gov, The Arc of Virginia
Date accessed: 2025-11-06
Sources: Virginia Medicaid, Virginia Retirement System, Virginia Medicaid Waivers
Date accessed: 2025-11-06
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Virginia residents can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. Funds in an ABLE account do not count toward SSI or Medicaid asset limits.
Source: ABLE National Resource Center
Date accessed: 2025-11-06
Source: The Arc of Virginia
Date accessed: 2025-11-06
It is important to report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands and loss of benefits. Report changes to Social Security and Medicaid as soon as possible.
Source: SSA.gov
Date accessed: 2025-11-06
Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) for help with Medicaid and waiver applications. They can guide you through the process and connect you with local resources.
Yes, if your asthma is severe enough to prevent you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid. Medical evidence is required.
You can apply for Medicaid online at CoverVA, by phone, or in person. You will need to provide medical records showing your asthma diagnosis and how it limits your daily activities.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both require medical proof of disability.
Yes, both SSI and SSDI have work incentive programs that allow you to work and keep your benefits up to a certain income level.
Yes, Virginia Medicaid covers asthma medications and treatments for eligible individuals. Check with your Medicaid provider for details.
VSDP provides income protection for state employees who are unable to work due to non-work-related illnesses like asthma. State employees should contact Alight to file a claim.
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 find your local CSB by visiting the Virginia Medicaid website or contacting the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services.
Yes, if your asthma meets the disability criteria, you can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility.
Report any changes in income to Social Security and Medicaid as soon as possible to avoid overpayments and loss of benefits.
Yes, SSI has strict income and asset limits. The monthly maximum federal amount for 2025 is $967 for an individual, $1,450 for an individual with an eligible spouse, and $484 for an essential person.
