If you have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Virginia, you may qualify for federal and state benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and special waivers. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, have a disability that stops you from working for at least 12 months, and meet the work credit rule (usually 20 credits in the last 10 years)[^6]. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must meet Social Security's definition[^1].
PTSD is listed under mental disorders in Social Security's Blue Book. To qualify, your symptoms must be severe enough to stop you from working and must be documented by medical records[^6].
In Virginia, people with PTSD may qualify for Medicaid if they are disabled, blind, or aged 65+[^5]. Virginia does not add extra money to SSI, so recipients get only the federal amount: $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples in 2025[^1].
Virginia Medicaid does not have a separate waiver for PTSD, but people with PTSD can get therapy, case management, and other supports through Medicaid[^5]. If you have both PTSD and a developmental disability, you may qualify for a DD Waiver[^2].
Work requirements for Medicaid do not apply if you get disability benefits[^4].
Check Eligibility: Make sure your PTSD stops you from working for at least 12 months and you meet the work credit rule for SSDI or the income/resource rules for SSI[^6].
Gather Documents: Collect medical records, treatment notes, and a work history. Ask your doctor to fill out a disability report.
Apply for SSDI/SSI: Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office[^6].
Apply for Medicaid: If you need health coverage, apply through CoverVA or your local Department of Social Services[^5].
Report Changes: If your income, health, or living situation changes, report it to Social Security and Medicaid to avoid overpayments[^1].
Follow Up: Respond to any requests for more information. If denied, you can appeal within 60 days[^6].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Virginia residents can open an ABLE account through the Virginia ABLE program[^3].
Report any changes in income, health, or living situation to Social Security and Medicaid. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Use the SSI Income Estimator to avoid overpayments[^1].
Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) for help with Medicaid and mental health services. They can connect you to resources and help you apply for benefits[^2].
You can work and still get disability benefits if your earnings are below the SGA limit ($1,550/month in 2025) or if you qualify for work incentives[^1].
Yes, PTSD can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it stops you from working for at least 12 months and is documented by medical records. Virginia follows federal rules for PTSD disability claims[^6].
Virginia does not add extra money to SSI. In 2025, individuals get $943/month and couples get $1,415/month from the federal government[^1].
No, if you get disability benefits, you do not need to meet work requirements for Medicaid in Virginia. Work requirements apply only to adults aged 19-64 without a disability[^4].
Yes, you can work and still get benefits if your earnings are below the SGA limit ($1,550/month in 2025) or if you qualify for work incentives[^1].
You need medical records that show your PTSD diagnosis, symptoms, treatment, and how it affects your ability to work. Ask your doctor to fill out a disability report[^6].
You can apply for Medicaid through CoverVA or your local Department of Social Services. Medicaid covers therapy and other supports for people with PTSD[^5].
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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Virginia does not have a special waiver for PTSD. People with PTSD can get supports through Medicaid or, if they have a developmental disability, through a DD Waiver[^2].
If your claim is denied, you can appeal within 60 days. You may need to provide more medical records or attend a hearing[^6].
Yes, you may qualify for LIHEAP, which helps with heating and cooling bills for people with disabilities in Virginia[^4].
Report changes to Social Security and Medicaid as soon as possible. Use the SSI Income Estimator to avoid overpayments[^1].
