Open a Purple account in minutes. Banking built for people with disabilities.
Virginia • Chronic Illness
People with HIV/AIDS in Virginia may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI), Medicaid, and state support programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) with HIV/AIDS, your condition must prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a five-step process to decide eligibility:
If you meet these steps, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI[1][4][5][6].
In Virginia, people with HIV/AIDS may also qualify for Medicaid if they meet income and disability criteria. Medicaid covers medical care, medications, and some home/community services. Virginia also offers Developmental Disability (DD) Waivers if HIV/AIDS causes cognitive or functional impairments. These waivers help with home care, support services, and living arrangements. There is a waiting list, and slots are assigned by need. Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) to apply for DD Waivers[3][8].
Virginia does not add extra cash to SSI, so recipients get only the federal amount: $943/month for individuals, $1,415/month for couples in 2025[1].
Virginia offers ABLEnow accounts for people with disabilities. These accounts let you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use funds for housing, education, transportation, and more[internal_link_ABLE].
Report any changes in income, work, or health to SSA and DMAS. Not reporting changes can cause overpayments and penalties. Use SSA’s online portal or call to report changes[internal_link_overpayments].
Contact your local Social Security office or Community Services Board for help with applications and questions.
Yes, HIV/AIDS can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it prevents you from working for at least 12 months. SSA has a specific listing for HIV/AIDS. You must meet medical and work criteria[1][6].
In 2025, SSI pays $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples. Virginia does not add extra cash to SSI[1].
Yes, Virginia Medicaid covers medical care, medications, and some home/community services for people with HIV/AIDS who meet income and disability rules[8].
DD Waivers help with home care and support services if HIV/AIDS causes cognitive or functional impairments. Contact your local CSB to apply. There is a waiting list[3].
Yes, but you must not earn more than the SGA limit ($1,550/month in 2025). Work incentives let you test your ability to work without losing benefits[1][4][5].
Apply online at CoverVA.dmas.virginia.gov, by phone, or at your local Department of Social Services. You may qualify if you have a disability and meet income rules[8].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Virginia Career Works centers offer employment, training, and career education services for people with disabilities, including those with HIV/AIDS[9].
Yes, Virginia offers ABLEnow accounts. These let you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for housing, education, and more[internal_link_ABLE].
Report any income changes to SSA and DMAS. Not reporting can cause overpayments and penalties. Use SSA’s online portal or call to report changes[internal_link_overpayments].
Recent changes affect disability coverage for emergency dispatchers, but these do not change eligibility for SSI/SSDI or Medicaid for people with HIV/AIDS[2].
