Virginia offers disability benefits, Medicaid waivers, and special savings accounts for people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Learn your eligibility, key state and federal programs, how to apply, and where to get help.
To be eligible for federal benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must have a documented medical condition—like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome—that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death[7]. SSDI requires enough work credits based on your age; SSI is for those with very limited income and resources, and you do not need a work history for SSI[2]. Both require proof of disability, financial need, and citizenship or eligible immigration status. The Social Security Administration (SSA) makes the final decision on disability claims[7]. For ABLE accounts, you must have a qualifying disability that began before age 26, regardless of work history. The cost-of-living adjustment for 2025 may increase SSDI payments slightly, and income limits for work are expected to rise[3][5].
Virginia residents with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid through the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) program if they meet income and resource limits—in 2025, a single person can earn up to $1,064/month and a couple up to $1,430/month[6]. If you qualify for SSI, you automatically qualify for Virginia Medicaid[2]. For those over the income limit, Medicaid spenddown options are available[6]. Virginia also offers three Developmental Disability (DD) Medicaid waivers for home and community-based care, but Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is not automatically part of this group—case-by-case review is needed for waiver eligibility, and there are significant waitlists[1]. Work requirements for Medicaid do not apply if you receive disability benefits[4].
Start now: If you have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and need benefits, first apply for SSI or SSDI through the Social Security Administration. If you qualify for SSI, you will also qualify for Virginia Medicaid[2]. Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) for Medicaid waivers and state programs[1]. Keep records of your medical diagnosis, work history, income, and living expenses.
The SSA updates benefit amounts and work rules yearly. In 2025, expect a cost-of-living increase and higher income limits for people who want to try working[3][5].
State-specific information is limited; start with your local Community Services Board and the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services for the most current guidance on waivers and eligibility for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome[1][6].
Virginians with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (diagnosed before age 26) can open an ABLE account to save up to $18,000/year (2025) without affecting SSI, Medicaid, or other needs-based benefits. This money can pay for disability-related expenses. Find Virginia’s ABLE program at va.savewithable.com.
Always report changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to Social Security and Medicaid[2]. Failing to report can lead to overpayments, which you may have to pay back. Virginia Medicaid and SSI/SSDI have online and phone options to report changes. Keep records of every notice and conversation.
Most people are denied SSI/SSDI at first—but most who appeal win. Don’t give up; get help from legal aid or a disability advocate. Appeals take time but are often worth it[7].
Keep a binder with all your medical records, letters from doctors, denial notices, and appeal paperwork. This makes reapplying and appealing much easier.
No. You must meet Virginia Medicaid’s income, resource, and disability rules—but qualifying for SSI gets you automatic Medicaid. Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome alone doesn’t guarantee approval; your functional limitations and medical proof matter most[2][6].
Yes, within limits. SSI and Medicaid have strict income limits. SSDI allows you to earn up to the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit ($1,530/month in 2025). Virginia Medicaid has work incentives; disability benefits exempt you from Medicaid work requirements[3][4].
SSI is for people with very limited income/resources and no work history needed. SSDI is based on your work history and payroll taxes. Both pay monthly if you meet medical disability rules[2][7].
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome may qualify for a Developmental Disability (DD) Waiver if it causes significant functional impairments. These waivers are not automatic and have waiting lists; your local CSB will decide[1].
Open an ABLE account online at va.savewithable.com. You must have a qualifying disability (like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome) with onset before age 26. These accounts help you save without losing benefits.
Virginia offers a Medicaid spenddown, where you subtract medical bills from your income to meet the eligibility limit. If you are over the limit, you may qualify for Medicaid to help pay for Medicare premiums[6].
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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Initial decisions take 3–5 months. Many are denied at first; always appeal. The process can take over a year if you appeal more than once. Keep detailed records and follow up[7].
Yes. Contact Legal Aid Justice Center, The Arc of Virginia, or your local Department of Social Services for free or low-cost help with applications and appeals.
Yes. SSDI payments may increase by about 2.5% due to cost-of-living adjustments. SSI and Medicaid income limits also change yearly. SGA limits for SSDI will rise in 2025, so you can earn a bit more without losing benefits[3][5].
Appeal within 60 days. Most denials are reversed on appeal. Get help from a legal aid group or disability advocate. Keep all your paperwork and doctor’s notes[7].
