If you have Short Stature in Virginia, you may be eligible for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, Virginia Medicaid, and specialized support through state waivers. This guide shows you how to apply, what to expect, and where to find more help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI) with Short Stature, your condition must severely limit your ability to work for at least 12 months, and you must meet income and resource limits. The Social Security Administration uses a five-step process to determine if you qualify[1]. This includes checking if you’re currently working, how severe your condition is, whether it matches their medical listings, if you can do your past work, and if you can adjust to other work[1]. For SSDI, you also need enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes[6]. For SSI, income and assets (including from family) are strict. Meeting the medical criteria is key, but every case is reviewed individually.
Virginia follows the federal rules for SSI/SSDI, but the state’s Disability Determination Services reviews your application[1]. Virginia also offers Medicaid to individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled (ABD), which may include people with Short Stature if they meet financial and disability criteria[5]. Additionally, Virginia has Developmental Disability (DD) waivers for home- and community-based services, but qualifying for these usually requires a diagnosis involving intellectual or developmental disabilities—Short Stature alone may not qualify unless combined with significant functional limitations[2]. The state Medicaid program (ABD) is the most widely available state-specific support for adults with disabilities. To see if you qualify for state programs, contact your local Community Services Board or the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services[2][5].
To apply for disability benefits in Virginia, start online at SSA.gov or call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 for SSI or SSDI. For Medicaid, submit an application through Virginia’s CommonHelp portal or visit your local Department of Social Services. For waivers, contact your local Community Services Board. Gather medical records, proof of income, and identification before you apply.
Step 1: Gather Documentation
Step 2: Apply for Federal Benefits
Step 3: Explore State Waivers
Step 5: Appeal if Denied
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides monthly cash payments to adults and children with disabilities who have limited income and resources. The 2025 federal benefit rate is $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples; Virginia does not add a state supplement[1]. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) pays benefits to workers who have paid into Social Security and can no longer work due to a medical condition[1]. Medicaid may be available for low-income individuals with disabilities[5].
Virginia Medicaid for Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) covers medical services for qualifying people with disabilities[5]. Developmental Disability (DD) Waivers (Building Independence, Family & Individual Support, Community Living) provide home- and community-based supports, but these are usually for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities—Short Stature alone may not qualify, but if you have significant functional limitations, ask your local Community Services Board[2]. Virginia does not have a state-only disability cash benefit—all cash assistance is through federal programs. For health coverage and community supports, start with Virginia Medicaid and the DD waiver system if you have additional disabilities[2][5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits like SSI or Medicaid. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses. Virginia does not have its own ABLE program, but you can enroll in any state’s ABLE plan. Learn more on our ABLE Accounts page.
For SSI in 2025 in Virginia, the federal income limit is $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples[1]. For SSDI, you generally can’t earn more than $1,550/month (projections for 2025 may be slightly higher), or your application may be denied[1]. Medicaid limits vary based on household size and program rules—check the latest guidelines at coverva.dmas.virginia.gov[5].
You must promptly report changes in income, living situation, or health to the Social Security Administration and Virginia Medicaid. Failure to report can result in overpayments, which you may have to pay back. See our Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide for more.
Local Social Security offices, Virginia Department of Social Services, and Community Services Boards offer free application help. You do not need to pay for assistance.
Virginia’s DD waivers focus on intellectual and developmental disabilities. Short Stature alone is unlikely to qualify you for a waiver, but if you have other significant challenges, it’s worth asking your local Community Services Board[2].
You may qualify if Short Stature severely limits your ability to work for at least a year. The Social Security Administration reviews each case based on medical evidence and work history. Virginia follows federal rules and provides no extra state supplement for SSI[1].
Apply online through Virginia’s CommonHelp portal or at your local Department of Social Services. You’ll need to show proof of disability, income, and resources. Coverage is available for adults with disabilities who meet income limits[5].
Virginia’s Developmental Disability (DD) waivers are mainly for intellectual or developmental disabilities. If you have significant functional challenges, ask your local Community Services Board if you might qualify[2]. Short Stature alone is unlikely to qualify.
In 2025, you generally can’t earn more than $1,550/month (substantial gainful activity limit) or your SSDI may be denied[1]. If you work and earn more than this, you risk losing benefits unless you qualify for work incentives.
You can appeal. Many people are approved after appeal. Consider contacting a disability advocate or legal aid group for help with the process. Appeals must be filed quickly—keep all your paperwork and records.
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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Yes, but earnings are limited. SSI and SSDI have strict income rules, and Medicaid also has income limits. Report all income changes to avoid overpayments. See our [SSI & SSDI Work Incentives](/guides/work-incentives) page for details.
ABLE accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without losing benefits. Virginia doesn’t have its own plan, but you can join any state’s program. See our [ABLE Accounts](/guides/able-accounts) guide.
For SSI/SSDI, Virginia’s Disability Determination Services reviews your application using federal rules[1]. For Medicaid, the Virginia Department of Social Services checks financial and disability criteria[5]. Waiver decisions are made by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services[2].
It can take months, sometimes longer if you need to appeal. Start the process as soon as possible and keep copies of everything you submit.
Social Security offices, local Departments of Social Services, Community Services Boards, and nonprofit disability organizations can help. Don’t pay for help to apply—many free resources are available.
