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Virginia • Chronic Illness
Once in Virginia—not already in the database. Set 5, keeps state_prefix so this is different from other states. Not overwriting.
To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked enough in jobs covered by Social Security, have a medical condition (like kidney disease) that prevents work for 12 months or longer, and meet the Social Security work credit requirements[6]. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources, and a disabling condition; citizenship or legal residency is also required. Both programs use a five-step process to evaluate disability claims, starting with checking if you’re still working and how severe your condition is, then comparing it to specific medical listings, and finally considering whether you can do past or other work[1]. In 2025, the SSI federal benefit is $943/month for individuals and $1,415 for couples in Virginia, with no state supplement[1]. The SSDI maximum benefit may increase thanks to a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA)[4].
Virginia follows the federal process for SSI and SSDI eligibility, with no state supplement to SSI[1]. Medicaid is available for people who are aged, blind, or disabled (ABD), including those with kidney disease, if they meet income and asset limits[5]. Virginia also has Medicaid waiver programs (HCBS), but none are specifically for kidney disease—eligible individuals may access general developmental disability or ABD waivers if they meet criteria[2]. Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) to discuss waiver options. State Medicaid in Virginia may cover dialysis, transplants, and related care. It’s important to check with the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) for the latest coverage details.
Apply for SSI/SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone, or at your local Social Security office[6]. For Medicaid, visit coverva.org for an easy online application, or contact your local Department of Social Services[5]. For waiver programs, call your local Community Services Board (CSB) to get on a waiting list and discuss your needs[2]. Gather medical records, work history, proof of income, and identification before you apply.
For SSI/SSDI:
For Virginia Medicaid:
For Medicaid Waivers:
Federal programs for kidney disease in Virginia include SSI (Supplemental Security Income) for those with limited income and resources, and SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) for those with enough work credits[1][6]. Both programs have strict medical eligibility rules and application processes. Medicare is available after 24 months of SSDI approval, covering dialysis and transplants. ABLE Accounts allow people with disabilities to save for disability-related expenses without losing benefits (see our [ABLE Accounts] guide).
Virginia’s Medicaid program covers eligible individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled (ABD), including those with kidney disease[5]. Virginia does not offer a state supplement to SSI or kidney-specific Medicaid waivers, but general disability and ABD Medicaid can cover dialysis, transplant, and related care. For home- and community-based supports, Virginia offers Developmental Disability (DD) Waivers, but these are not specific to kidney disease and have waiting lists—priority goes to those with the greatest need[2]. If you think you might qualify, contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) to discuss waiver options and get on the waiting list[2]. Medicaid for ABD is your best state option for kidney-related healthcare coverage in Virginia[5].
Virginians with kidney disease may open an ABLE account to save for disability expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Earnings in the account grow tax-free, and funds can pay for qualified expenses. See our [ABLE Accounts] guide for details.
In 2025, SSI recipients in Virginia get the federal rate: $943/month for individuals, $1,415 for couples, with no state supplement[1]. SSDI has no set income limit, but you must not earn over the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold (about $1,550/month in 2025)[1][3]. Medicaid has income and asset limits—check coverva.org for current figures[5]. If you work, see [SSI & SSDI Work Incentives].
If you get SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid, report all income and life changes quickly to avoid overpayments. Overpayments must be repaid and can reduce future benefits. See [Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes] for how and when to report.
Virginia does not pay a state supplement to SSI. Everyone gets the federal amount, so your benefit will not be higher than the national maximum[1].
Medicare starts 24 months after SSDI approval. If you have end-stage renal disease (ESRD), you may qualify for Medicare sooner—ask your doctor and Social Security for details.
Local Community Services Boards can help with Medicaid waiver applications and connect you to services. Find your CSB on the DBHDS website.
Yes, but your earnings must stay below the SGA limit ($1,550/month in 2025 for SSDI)[3]. For SSI, earnings and other income must be very low. Always report work income to avoid overpayments (see [SSI & SSDI Work Incentives]).
Virginia Medicaid for ABD covers dialysis, transplants, doctor visits, and medications for eligible individuals[5]. Check with DMAS or your provider for details.
No, Virginia does not have a kidney-specific waiver. However, general Medicaid waiver programs may help if you also qualify based on functional or developmental disability needs[2].
Processing time varies; it can take months. Start your application as soon as you become unable to work.
ABLE accounts let you save for disability expenses without losing benefits. Earnings grow tax-free, and funds can pay for qualified expenses. See [ABLE Accounts] for more.
Yes, you have the right to appeal at each step. Act quickly, as deadlines apply.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Benefits and rules can change. Always verify details with official agencies.
No, but most people must wait 5 months for SSDI payments to start after approval. SSI payments start after approval.
Contact Virginia Medicaid, your healthcare provider, or a local health clinic. Some drug companies also offer patient assistance programs.
It’s possible if you meet the strict eligibility rules for both programs. Most people qualify for one or the other, not both.
