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Virginia • Chronic Illness
If you have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Virginia, you may qualify for federal benefits (SSI, SSDI), state Medicaid, ABLE accounts, and disability-related work support. This guide explains eligibility, application steps, and key Virginia-specific programs for adults and children with this chronic illness.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, you must show your condition severely limits your ability to perform basic work activities for at least 12 months. For SSDI, you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began[6]. SSI has strict income and asset limits and does not require a work history[1]. Your medical records must document ongoing, significant symptoms and functional limitations. Even if your condition isn’t specifically listed, you may qualify if you can prove equivalent severity. The Social Security Administration uses a five-step evaluation process to determine eligibility, including assessing your ability to do past work or adjust to other employment[1].
Virginia uses the same federal criteria for SSI and SSDI eligibility, so there are no extra state rules for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome[1]. However, Virginia Medicaid offers additional coverage for people who are aged, blind, or disabled (ABD)[5]. ABD Medicaid has its own income and asset limits, which may be higher than SSI’s. Virginia also administers Developmental Disability (DD) waivers, but these are typically for intellectual/developmental disabilities, not chronic illnesses like CFS[2]. For ongoing, severe CFS, focus on SSI, SSDI, and ABD Medicaid. Always check with your local Community Services Board for the latest state program details—there is no specific Virginia waiver for CFS, but general Medicaid may cover needed services[2][5].
If you have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and need benefits in Virginia:
Step 1: Document Your Condition Collect all medical records, doctor’s notes, test results, and a detailed history of your symptoms and treatments. For Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, consistent, detailed documentation is critical—especially notes about how your symptoms limit daily activities and work.
Step 2: Apply for Federal Benefits
Step 3: Apply for Virginia Medicaid
Step 4: Contact Your Local Community Services Board (CSB)
Step 5: Explore Work Incentives and ABLE Accounts
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Provides monthly cash assistance to low-income individuals with disabilities, including those with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, who meet strict income and asset limits. In 2025, the federal benefit is $943/month for individuals[1].
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Pays benefits to adults who have worked and paid into Social Security but can no longer work due to a disability. The amount depends on your earnings record. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can qualify if it meets Social Security’s severity criteria[1][6].
ABLE Accounts A national program allowing individuals with disabilities to save up to $100,000 without affecting eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other means-tested benefits[internal_link].
Virginia Medicaid for Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) Offers health coverage to Virginians with disabilities, including Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, who meet income and asset limits. Apply through Cover Virginia[5].
Developmental Disability (DD) Waivers Virginia has three Medicaid HCBS waivers for people with developmental disabilities, but these are not designed for chronic illnesses like CFS[2]. However, general Medicaid may cover some home- and community-based services if medically necessary.
Virginia Career Works Provides employment support, job training, and career services for people with disabilities seeking to enter or return to work[8].
No Virginia-specific Cash Assistance for CFS Virginia does not offer a state disability payment program beyond federal SSI/SSDI. Focus on federal benefits, Medicaid, and employment supports.
Virginians with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can open an ABLE account to save for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. ABLE accounts allow tax-free savings up to $100,000 and can be used for qualified expenses like housing, transportation, and healthcare[internal_link].
SSI has strict income and asset limits; in 2025, the federal benefit is $943/month for individuals[1]. ABD Medicaid in Virginia also has income limits, which may be higher than SSI’s[5]. SSDI does not have asset limits, but you must not engage in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)—projected at $1,550/month for non-blind individuals in 2025[1][4]. Exceeding SGA may result in loss of SSDI benefits.
If your income, living situation, or health improves, you must report these changes to Social Security and Virginia Medicaid. Failing to report can result in overpayments, which you’ll have to repay. Learn more about Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes to keep your benefits secure[internal_link].
Virginians with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome do not qualify for Developmental Disability (DD) waivers, which are for intellectual/developmental disabilities. However, Virginia’s general Medicaid program may cover some home- and community-based services if your doctor says they’re medically necessary. Always ask your local CSB about all available options[2][5].
If your SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid application is denied, you have the right to appeal. Many people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome are approved after providing additional medical evidence or with the help of a disability advocate.
Yes, if your symptoms are severe enough to prevent work for at least 12 months and you meet other program rules. You need strong medical documentation showing how CFS limits your daily activities and ability to work[1][6].
No, Virginia does not offer state disability cash benefits. Residents rely on federal SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid[1][5].
ABD Medicaid covers Virginians with disabilities who meet income and asset limits. Developmental Disability waivers are not for CFS, but general Medicaid may cover some services if medically necessary[2][5].
In 2025, the SGA limit is projected at $1,550/month for non-blind individuals. Earning more than this may affect your SSDI benefits[1][4].
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. It’s a useful tool for managing finances while on disability benefits[internal_link].
Apply online at coverva.org or contact your local Department of Social Services. You’ll need to provide medical evidence of your disability[5].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or benefits advice. Always verify eligibility and application details with official agencies.
Step 6: Stay Organized and Report Changes
Yes, SSI and SSDI have work incentives that allow some earnings. Learn about **SSI & SSDI Work Incentives** to understand the rules and protect your benefits[internal_link].
You have the right to appeal. Gather more medical evidence and consider getting help from a disability advocate or attorney. Many applicants are approved on appeal.
The Developmental Disability waivers have a waiting list, but these are not for CFS. There is no waiting list for SSI, SSDI, or ABD Medicaid, but processing times vary[2].
Visit the Virginia DBHDS website or call 804-786-3921 to locate your CSB. They can help connect you with local resources, even if you don’t qualify for a DD waiver[2].
