If you live in Virginia and have chronic pain, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what programs are available.
To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years) and a medical condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months [5]. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your condition must be severe enough to limit your ability to work for at least 12 months [5].
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a five-step process to decide if your chronic pain qualifies:
If your chronic pain is severe and lasts at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI [1].
In Virginia, SSI payments are the federal amount only: $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples in 2025 [1]. Virginia does not add extra money to SSI.
Virginia Medicaid offers waivers for people with developmental disabilities, but these are not for chronic pain. If you have chronic pain and need home or community supports, you may qualify for other Medicaid programs or waivers if you also have a developmental disability [2].
Virginia’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) follows the same federal rules as other states. Your chronic pain must be severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months [1].
If you are approved for SSDI or SSI, you may also qualify for Medicaid or Medicare, depending on your income and other factors [1].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can use the funds for disability-related expenses. Virginia has its own ABLE program. Learn more at the official ABLE site [internal_links].
You must report changes in income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Learn more about reporting changes and avoiding overpayments [internal_links].
Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) for help with Medicaid or disability applications. Find your CSB at the Virginia CSB website.
Yes, if your chronic pain is severe and stops you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. You must meet federal medical and work credit rules [1].
In 2025, SSI pays $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples. Virginia does not add extra money to SSI [1].
The SGA limit is $1,550/month for non-blind people in 2025. If you earn more, you may not qualify for SSDI unless you qualify for work incentives [1].
No, Virginia Medicaid waivers are for people with developmental disabilities. If you have chronic pain and a developmental disability, you may qualify for home and community supports [2].
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. You will need medical records and work history. Virginia’s DDS will review your application [1].
If denied, you can appeal within 60 days. The first step is a reconsideration, then a hearing if needed. You can get help from a disability advocate or attorney [1].
Yes, but you cannot earn more than the SGA limit ($1,550/month in 2025) and still get SSDI. SSI has strict income limits. Learn about work incentives [internal_links].
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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Yes, you must report changes in income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back [internal_links].
SSDI is for people with enough work credits. SSI is for people with low income and resources. Both require a qualifying disability [internal_links].
Yes, if you have low income and meet other rules. Medicaid covers health care for people with disabilities, including chronic pain [1].
