People with Rett Syndrome in Virginia may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state-specific Medicaid waivers and support programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources for Virginia residents.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For SSDI, you need enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years). SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Rett Syndrome is considered a severe disability and often meets the criteria for both programs [^1].
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a five-step process to decide eligibility:
If your Rett Syndrome meets or equals a listing, you may be approved automatically [^1].
In Virginia, SSI recipients receive only the federal benefit amount: $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples in 2025. There is no state supplement for SSI in Virginia [^1].
Virginia Medicaid offers Developmental Disability (DD) Waivers for people with Rett Syndrome, which can provide home and community-based services. There is a waiting list for these waivers, and slots are assigned based on urgency of need. To apply, contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) or visit the Virginia Community Services Board website [^2].
Virginia also has Medicaid for Persons who are Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD), which may be an option for those who meet income and disability criteria [^5].
Virginia offers ABLE Accounts, which are tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, transportation, and personal support services [^3].
It is important to report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to the Social Security Administration and Virginia Medicaid as soon as possible [^6].
Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) for help with DD Waiver applications. For SSI/SSDI, visit your local Social Security office or call 1-800-772-1213.
People with Rett Syndrome in Virginia may qualify for SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid. SSI provides monthly payments for those with limited income, SSDI for those with a work history, and Medicaid for health coverage. Veterans may also qualify for VA benefits [^1][^5][^4].
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need to provide medical records, proof of income, and personal information. The process can take several months [^6].
Virginia offers Developmental Disability (DD) Waivers for people with Rett Syndrome. These waivers provide home and community-based services, such as personal care and respite. There is a waiting list, and slots are assigned based on need [^2].
In 2025, the federal SSI payment in Virginia is $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples. There is no state supplement for SSI in Virginia [^1].
You can work while receiving SSI or SSDI, but there are income limits. For SSDI, you cannot earn more than the SGA limit ($1,550/month in 2025 for non-blind individuals). SSI has strict income and resource limits [^1].
There is a waiting list for Developmental Disability (DD) Waivers in Virginia. Slots are assigned based on urgency of need. Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) for more information [^2].
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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Veterans with Rett Syndrome may qualify for VA disability benefits, including health care, education, and housing assistance. If your Rett Syndrome is service-connected, you may qualify for additional benefits [^4].
To apply for a DD Waiver in Virginia, contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) or visit the Virginia Community Services Board website. There is a waiting list, and slots are assigned based on need [^2].
An ABLE Account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. In Virginia, you can save up to $17,000 per year without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses [^3].
Report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to the Social Security Administration and Virginia Medicaid as soon as possible to avoid overpayments and ensure you continue to receive the correct amount of benefits [^6].
