If you have depression in Virginia, you may qualify for federal and state benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Medicaid waivers. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To get federal disability benefits for depression, you must show that your condition is severe and expected to last at least 12 months. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and enough work credits. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), there are strict income and asset limits. Both programs require medical proof from a doctor or mental health professional. If approved, you may also get Medicaid in Virginia. The Social Security Administration reviews your application and medical records to decide if you qualify [2].
In Virginia, adults and children with depression may qualify for Medicaid if their income is below the state’s limits. For 2025, the monthly income limit is $1,064 for one person and $1,430 for a couple. If your income is higher, you may still qualify by “spending down” your income on medical bills [5].
Virginia also offers Medicaid waivers for people with developmental disabilities, which may include those with severe depression if it meets the criteria. These waivers help pay for home and community-based services. There is a waiting list, and slots are assigned based on urgency of need. To apply, contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) [1].
Get medical documentation: Ask your doctor or therapist for a letter or report that explains your depression, treatment, and how it limits your ability to work or do daily activities.
Apply for federal benefits: Go to SSA.gov and apply for SSI or SSDI. You can also call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office. Be ready to provide your medical records, work history, and financial information [2].
Apply for Virginia Medicaid: Go to CoverVA.dmas.virginia.gov and apply online. You can also apply in person at your local Department of Social Services. If your income is over the limit, ask about the “spenddown” option [5].
Apply for Medicaid waivers: If you need extra support, contact your local Community Services Board (CSB). They can help you apply for Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. There is a waiting list, so apply as soon as possible [1].
Check for other help: If you are a state employee, ask about the Virginia Sickness and Disability Program (VSDP). If you want to try working, ask about work incentive programs [3].
Keep records and report changes: Keep copies of all applications and medical records. Report any changes in income, work, or health to Social Security and Medicaid to avoid overpayments [2].
The main federal programs for people with depression are:
Virginia offers several programs for people with depression:
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Virginia, you can open an ABLE account to pay for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses. The account grows tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one in Virginia [internal_link: ABLE Accounts].
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit (2025) | |----------------|-----------------------------| | 1 | $1,064 | | 2 | $1,430 |
These are the income limits for Medicaid for persons who are aged, blind, or disabled in Virginia. If your income is higher, you may still qualify by “spending down” your income on medical bills [5].
If your income, work, or health changes, you must report it to Social Security and Medicaid. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Keep records of all changes and report them as soon as possible. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes [internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) for help with Medicaid and waiver applications. They can also connect you to mental health services and support programs.
Yes, if your depression is severe and expected to last at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must provide medical proof and meet income or work history requirements [2].
You can apply online at CoverVA.dmas.virginia.gov or in person at your local Department of Social Services. You will need to provide income and medical information [5].
A Medicaid waiver helps pay for home and community-based services for people with developmental disabilities, which may include severe depression. Contact your local Community Services Board to apply [1].
For 2025, the monthly income limit is $1,064 for one person and $1,430 for a couple. If your income is higher, you may still qualify by “spending down” on medical bills [5].
Yes, there are work incentive programs that let you try working without losing benefits right away. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for 2025 is expected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals [4].
You need a diagnosis from a doctor or mental health professional and records showing how depression affects your daily life and ability to work [2].
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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The process can take several months. Social Security reviews your application and medical records. You may need to appeal if your first application is denied [2].
Medicaid covers therapy, medication, crisis services, and other mental health treatments for eligible adults and children [5].
Yes, Medicaid waivers may help pay for housing and support services if you have a developmental disability, which may include severe depression. Contact your local Community Services Board for help [1].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both require medical proof of disability [2].
