People in Virginia who are deaf or hard of hearing may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and specialized waivers. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources for 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must have a condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. For SSI, your income and assets must be low. Deafness can qualify if it severely limits your ability to work or live independently. The Social Security Administration uses a five-step process to decide if your condition meets the definition of disability, including reviewing medical evidence and functional limitations[1][6].
In Virginia, SSI recipients receive only the federal benefit amount: $943 per month for individuals and $1,415 for couples in 2025. Virginia does not add a state supplement to SSI. Medicaid for people who are aged, blind, or disabled (ABD) is available to those who meet federal and state criteria. Virginia also offers Medicaid waivers for people with developmental disabilities, which may include some individuals who are deaf. These waivers provide home and community-based services, but there is a waiting list and slots are assigned based on urgency of need[1][2][5].
Virginia offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities, including those who are deaf. These accounts allow you to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use ABLE funds for things like assistive technology, education, housing, and transportation[5].
For SSI in Virginia, the federal income limit is $943 per month for individuals and $1,415 for couples in 2025. SSDI does not have strict income limits, but you cannot earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit ($1,550/month in 2025) and still qualify for benefits. Medicaid income limits vary based on program and household size[1][3].
You must report any changes in your income, living situation, or health to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to Social Security or your local Department of Social Services as soon as possible[4].
Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) for help with Medicaid waivers and other disability services in Virginia.
Yes, if your deafness is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. The Social Security Administration will review your medical evidence and how your condition affects your daily life[6].
SSI pays $943 per month for individuals and $1,415 for couples in Virginia in 2025. Virginia does not add a state supplement to SSI[1].
Virginia offers Medicaid for people who are aged, blind, or disabled (ABD). There are also Medicaid waivers for people with developmental disabilities, which may include some individuals who are deaf[5][2].
Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) to apply for Medicaid waivers. There is a waiting list, and slots are assigned based on urgency of need[2].
No, work requirements do not apply to people who are receiving disability benefits in Virginia. You can keep your Medicaid coverage as long as you meet the disability criteria[4].
Yes, but there are limits. For SSI, your income must be below the federal limit. For SSDI, you cannot earn more than the SGA limit ($1,550/month in 2025) and still qualify for benefits[1][3].
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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An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities, including those who are deaf. You can use it for disability-related expenses without losing benefits. Virginia offers ABLE accounts[5].
Report any changes in your income, living situation, or health to Social Security or your local Department of Social Services as soon as possible to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits[4].
Yes, Virginia offers Medicaid waivers for children with developmental disabilities, which may include some children who are deaf. Contact your local Community Services Board for more information[2].
The approval process can take several months. It depends on how quickly you provide medical evidence and how complex your case is. You may be able to get temporary benefits while you wait[1][6].
