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Virginia • Neurological/Developmental
People with Cerebral Palsy in Virginia can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and work incentives. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key programs for 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. For SSDI, you need enough work credits from jobs covered by Social Security. For SSI, your income and assets must be limited. Cerebral Palsy is listed as a qualifying condition if it meets the severity criteria in the Social Security Listing of Impairments. The Social Security Administration uses a five-step process to decide if you qualify, including reviewing your ability to work and your medical records [1].
Virginia does not add extra eligibility requirements for SSI or SSDI beyond federal rules. However, for Medicaid waivers and other state programs, you may need to meet additional criteria, such as age, residency, and functional needs. Virginia’s Medicaid waivers for developmental disabilities (including Cerebral Palsy) are available to children and adults who need ongoing support. There is a waiting list, and slots are assigned based on urgency of need. You must apply through your local Community Services Board (CSB) [2].
Virginia offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities. These accounts let you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can open an account online through the Virginia ABLE program. Contributions are limited, and funds can be used for qualified disability expenses [internal_links].
You must report any changes in your income, assets, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits. Use the SSI Income Estimator to check how changes affect your benefits. Report changes to Social Security or Medicaid as soon as possible [internal_links].
Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) for help with Medicaid waivers and other state programs. Social Security offices can help with SSI and SSDI applications.
The main benefits are SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. SSI and SSDI provide monthly cash payments. Medicaid waivers offer home and community-based services. ABLE accounts let you save money without losing benefits [1][2][5].
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need medical records and proof of income. Cerebral Palsy is a qualifying condition if it meets the severity criteria [6].
Virginia offers three waivers: Building Independence, Family & Individual Support, and Community Living. These provide home and community-based services. Apply through your local Community Services Board (CSB) [2].
Yes, work incentives allow some to earn income while keeping benefits. The SGA limit in 2025 is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals. You can earn up to this amount and still qualify for SSDI [1][3].
In 2025, the federal SSI payment is $943 per month for individuals and $1,415 for couples in Virginia. Virginia does not add a state supplement to SSI [1].
There is a waiting list for Medicaid waivers in Virginia. Slots are assigned based on urgency of need. Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) for more information [2].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
No, work requirements do not apply to people with disabilities in Virginia. Only adults aged 19-64 without a disability must meet work requirements by 2028 [4].
Report changes in income, assets, or living situation to Social Security or Medicaid as soon as possible. Use the SSI Income Estimator to check how changes affect your benefits [internal_links].
Yes, LIHEAP provides help with heating and cooling costs. Virginia has not eliminated LIHEAP as of October 2025 [4].
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing benefits. You can open an account online through the Virginia ABLE program [internal_links].
