Virginia offers SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts for people with Down Syndrome and their families. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and state-specific programs designed to help with medical care, housing, and daily support.
To qualify for federal disability programs like SSI or SSDI, you must have a disability like Down Syndrome that significantly limits your ability to work for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death[1][7]. SSI also has strict income and resource limits, while SSDI eligibility is based on work credits you’ve earned through Social Security-covered employment[1][7]. Down Syndrome is automatically considered a disability under Social Security’s Listing of Impairments, which can help speed application approval[1]. For SSDI, you typically need at least 20 work credits earned in the last 10 years[7]. For SSI, eligibility is based on financial need, not work history.
In Virginia, Medicaid for People Who are Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD), including those with Down Syndrome, is available to those who meet income and disability requirements[6]. Virginia also offers three Developmental Disability (DD) Waivers for adults and children with Down Syndrome: Community Living, Building Independence, and Family & Individual Support. These waivers support residential care, in-home support, and some community services, but there are waiting lists and slots are assigned based on urgency of need[2]. Eligibility for DD Waivers is determined through your local Community Services Board (CSB), which evaluates your needs. To be eligible, you must have a developmental disability—including Down Syndrome—and need the level of support these waivers provide[2].
Start your SSI/SSDI application online at ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. For Virginia Medicaid ABD, apply online at CoverVA.org. If you want DD Waiver services, contact your local Community Services Board to begin the application process—waivers have waitlists, so apply early[2][6]. For state employee disability benefits, call VSDP at 1-877-928-7021[3].
SSI/SSDI:
Virginia Medicaid ABD:
Developmental Disability Waivers:
VSDP (State Employees):
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are the main federal programs for people with Down Syndrome. SSDI is for those with a work history, while SSI supports those with limited income and resources[1]. Both programs consider Down Syndrome as a qualifying disability, which can help speed approval. SSI in Virginia pays the federal maximum of $943 per month for individuals in 2025[1]. There are also work incentives that allow you to test your ability to work without immediately losing benefits—talk to SSA about these programs.[1][7].
Medicare is available to SSDI recipients after a 24-month waiting period. ABLE accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities to save without affecting SSI eligibility.
Virginia Medicaid’s ABD (Aged, Blind, or Disabled) program covers medical care, therapies, and some support services for people with Down Syndrome who meet income and disability criteria[6]. For ongoing daily support, Virginia’s Developmental Disability (DD) Waivers are essential:
| Waiver Name | Who It’s For | Key Services | |-----------------------|-------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------| | Community Living | All ages, high support needs | 24/7 care, residential, complex medical/behavioral support | | Building Independence | Adults 18+, lower support | Housing, independent living, some daily supports | | Family & Individual | All ages, living with family | Respite, in-home help, caregiver support |
All three waivers are administered through Virginia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) and local Community Services Boards, but there are significant waiting lists—apply as soon as possible[2].
Virginia Sickness & Disability Program (VSDP) offers income protection for state employees who are unable to work due to disability, including return-to-work and vocational rehabilitation support[3].
Federal nutrition programs (SNAP), LIHEAP (heating/cooling help), and housing assistance are also available based on income.
Virginia residents with Down Syndrome may open an ABLE account to save money without affecting eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Funds in ABLE accounts can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, transportation, and healthcare. Withdrawals for non-qualified expenses may have tax consequences.
For SSI, income and asset limits apply—in 2025, SSI pays $943/month per individual in Virginia, but payments may be lower if you have other income[1]. SSDI does not have asset limits, but it is based on your work history. Virginia Medicaid ABD also has income and asset limits[6].
If you receive too much SSI or SSDI due to unreported income or assets, you may have to pay the extra money back. Report changes in income, living situation, or savings promptly to avoid overpayments. For Medicaid, report changes to your local DSS or CoverVA.org. Virginia’s DD Waivers and VSDP also require prompt reporting of significant changes.
Virginia’s Developmental Disability Waivers have long waiting lists—contact your local Community Services Board as soon as possible to get screened and added to the list. The sooner you apply, the sooner you may receive services[2].
The Social Security Administration automatically considers Down Syndrome a qualifying disability, which may speed up your SSI or SSDI application. Still, you must submit complete medical records and meet all other program rules[1].
SSI and SSDI have work incentives—you can earn some income (up to $1,550/month in 2025 for SSDI) and keep benefits for a time. Always report earnings to Social Security to avoid overpayments[1][4].
Not automatically—you must apply. Down Syndrome is on SSA’s automatic approval list, but you must still provide medical proof and meet income/resource limits for SSI. Contact Social Security to start the process[1][7].
Wait times vary—sometimes years. Slots are assigned based on need and urgency. Start your application early through your local Community Services Board for the best chance of getting help sooner[2].
Yes, the Building Independence waiver is designed for adults who can live mostly independently but need some supports. Contact your CSB to apply and discuss your needs[2].
No, as of July 2025, Virginia does not require a work requirement for Medicaid for people with disabilities. This may change in the future, so stay informed with your local DSS or CoverVA.org[5].
SSI is for people with limited income/resources and no work history, while SSDI is for those who have paid into Social Security through work. Down Syndrome is a qualifying disability for both, but their eligibility rules and payment amounts differ—see our guide on SSI vs SSDI for details[1].
Yes, ABLE accounts allow up to $100,000 in savings without affecting SSI eligibility. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, offering flexibility for extra costs you may have.
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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Remember, for all programs, keep copies of your applications and correspondence.
You can appeal. Many denials are due to missing information. Collect all medical records, talk to your doctor, and consider getting help from a legal aid group specializing in disability cases.
Virginia’s Community Living and Building Independence waivers can help pay for supported housing, group homes, or apartments with services. Ask your local CSB about options and waitlists[2].
Virginia DBHDS has a provider search tool on its website. Contact your local CSB for assistance and referrals to DD Waiver providers in your area[2].
SSI and SSDI have work incentives to protect some earnings. In 2025, the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit for SSDI is $1,550/month. Earned income may still affect SSI payments, so report any changes to Social Security[1][4].
