Cancer Benefits in Virginia: 2025 Guide

To get federal disability benefits for cancer in Virginia, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) rules. You need a diagnosis that stops you from working for at least 12 months or is terminal. The SSA uses a five-step process to decide if your cancer is severe enough. If your cancer is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book (Listing of Impairments), you may qualify automatically. If not, the SSA looks at your ability to do past work or any other work. You must also meet income and asset rules for SSI, or work credit rules for SSDI [1][3][5][8].

In Virginia, cancer patients may qualify for Medicaid waivers if they need long-term care or support services. The Developmental Disability (DD) Waivers are for people with certain conditions, but cancer patients may qualify for other Medicaid programs or waivers based on their needs. Virginia also offers services through local Community Services Boards (CSBs) for people with disabilities, including cancer. There is often a waiting list for waiver slots, and assignments are based on urgency of need [2].

• Gather medical records and proof of income.
• Contact your local Social Security office or apply online.
• For Medicaid waivers, contact your local Community Services Board (CSB).
• Submit all required forms and documents.
• Follow up on your application status regularly.

• Step 1: Get a diagnosis and collect all medical records, including treatment plans and doctor’s notes.
• Step 2: Apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You’ll need to fill out forms and provide medical evidence [1][5].
• Step 3: If you need Medicaid waiver services, contact your local CSB. They will help you apply for the right waiver and assess your needs [2].
• Step 4: The Disability Determination Services (DDS) will review your application. They may ask for more information or schedule a medical exam.
• Step 5: Wait for a decision. If denied, you can appeal within 60 days.
• Step 6: If approved, you’ll receive benefits and may be assigned a case manager for ongoing support.

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Payments are based on your work history.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For low-income individuals with limited resources. In 2025, the federal SSI payment is $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples [1].
• Medicare: Most SSDI recipients get Medicare after 24 months of disability.
• Medicaid: Some SSI recipients may also get Medicaid, depending on income and state rules.

• Developmental Disability (DD) Waivers: Virginia offers three Medicaid waivers for people with developmental disabilities who need long-term care. These include the Building Independence, Family & Individual Support, and Community Living waivers. While cancer is not a developmental disability, some cancer patients may qualify for these waivers if they have related needs [2].
• Community Services Boards (CSBs): Local CSBs provide support services, counseling, and help with applying for benefits.
• Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS): Oversees disability services and can help with waiver applications and support.

ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Virginia residents can open an ABLE account to pay for qualified disability expenses. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how they work [internal_link: ABLE Accounts].

• SSI: In 2025, the federal SSI payment is $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples. Virginia does not add a state supplement to SSI [1].
• SSDI: There is no income limit for SSDI, but you cannot earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals [8].

If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Learn how to avoid overpayments and what to report [internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].

• Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services
  Phone: (804) 786-3921

  TTY: (804) 371-8977

  Email: [email protected]

  Website

  For questions about Medicaid waivers and support services.

• Can I get disability benefits for cancer in Virginia?

  Yes, if your cancer stops you from working for at least 12 months or is terminal. You must meet SSA rules and provide medical evidence. Virginia also offers Medicaid waivers and support services for people with disabilities.

• How much money will I get from SSI for cancer in Virginia?

  In 2025, the federal SSI payment is $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples. Virginia does not add a state supplement to SSI.

• What is the SGA limit for SSDI in 2025?

  In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals. Earning more than this may affect your SSDI benefits.

• How do I apply for Medicaid waivers in Virginia?

  Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) to apply for Medicaid waivers. They will help you determine eligibility and guide you through the process.

• What is the five-step process for disability approval?

  The SSA uses a five-step process: current work activity, severity of condition, medical listings match, past relevant work, and other work capacity. Each step determines if you qualify for benefits.

• Can children with cancer get disability benefits in Virginia?

  Yes, children with cancer may qualify for SSI if they meet SSA rules. Adults with a disability that began before age 22 may also qualify for benefits on a parent’s Social Security record.