Tourette Syndrome Benefits in Virginia: 2025 Guide

To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. Tourette Syndrome may qualify if it severely limits your ability to work. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, while Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for those with a work history. Both programs have strict medical and financial criteria. In 2025, the SSI federal maximum is $967 per month for an individual and $1,450 for a couple. SSDI payments depend on your work history and earnings. Both programs offer work incentives to help you return to work without losing benefits.

• SSI: No work history needed; income and asset limits apply.
• SSDI: Must have worked and paid Social Security taxes; payment based on earnings.
• Both: Must meet SSA’s definition of disability.

Learn more about SSI vs SSDI

Citations: [2], [6]

In Virginia, people with Tourette Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid if they receive SSI or meet other criteria. Virginia also offers Medicaid waivers for developmental disabilities, which can include Tourette Syndrome if it causes significant functional limitations. The three main waivers are Building Independence, Family & Individual Support, and Community Living. These waivers provide services like personal care, respite, and supported living. There is a waiting list, and slots are assigned based on urgency of need. To apply, contact your local Community Services Board (CSB). Virginia does not require work for Medicaid if you receive disability benefits. Children and adults with disabilities may also qualify for other state programs.

• Medicaid: Automatic for SSI recipients; others may qualify based on income and disability.
• Medicaid Waivers: For those with developmental disabilities; contact CSB to apply.
• Work Requirements: Do not apply to those receiving disability benefits.

Citations: [1], [5], [7]

• Check if you qualify for SSI or SSDI using the SSA website.
• If approved for SSI, you will automatically qualify for Medicaid in Virginia.
• For Medicaid waivers, contact your local Community Services Board (CSB).
• Gather medical records and proof of income.
• Apply online or in person at your local Department of Social Services or SSA office.
• Follow up on your application status regularly.

Citations: [1], [2], [6]

• Step 1: Review eligibility for SSI or SSDI on the SSA website. Tourette Syndrome must significantly limit your ability to work.
• Step 2: Gather required documents: medical records, proof of income, Social Security number, and proof of Virginia residency.
• Step 3: Apply for SSI or SSDI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office.
• Step 4: If approved for SSI, you will automatically qualify for Medicaid in Virginia. If not, apply for Medicaid separately through CoverVA.
• Step 5: For Medicaid waivers (Building Independence, Family & Individual Support, Community Living), contact your local Community Services Board (CSB). They will help you apply and determine your eligibility.
• Step 6: Submit all required forms and documentation. Follow up regularly on your application status.
• Step 7: If denied, you have the right to appeal. Seek help from a disability advocate or legal aid if needed.

Citations: [1], [2], [6], [7]

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly cash benefit for people with limited income and resources. In 2025, the federal maximum is $967 for an individual.
• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly benefit for those with a qualifying work history. Payment amount depends on earnings.
• Medicaid: Health coverage for people with disabilities, automatic for SSI recipients in Virginia.
• Work Incentives: Programs to help you work and keep benefits up to a point.

Citations: [2], [6], [7]

• Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Virginia offers three waivers for developmental disabilities: Building Independence, Family & Individual Support, and Community Living. These provide services like personal care, respite, and supported living. Contact your local CSB to apply.
• Virginia Sickness & Disability Program (VSDP): Income protection for state employees who can’t work due to illness or injury.
• ABLE Accounts: Tax-advantaged savings accounts for disability-related expenses. Virginia residents can open an ABLE account through the Virginia ABLE program.
• Other State Programs: Children and adults with disabilities may qualify for additional services through local agencies.

Citations: [1], [3], [7]

Virginia residents with Tourette Syndrome can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. ABLE accounts allow tax-free savings up to $100,000 without affecting SSI eligibility. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses. To open an account, visit the Virginia ABLE program website.

Citations: [7]

For SSI in 2025, the federal maximum is $967 per month for an individual and $1,450 for a couple. SSDI payments depend on your work history. Medicaid income limits vary based on household size and disability status. In Virginia, SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid. For other programs, income limits are set by the state and may change annually.

Citations: [2], [7]

If your income or circumstances change, you must report it to avoid overpayments. This includes changes in work, income, or living situation. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits. Use the SSA’s online portal or contact your local office to report changes. For Medicaid, report changes to CoverVA or your local Department of Social Services.

Citations: [2], [7]

• Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services
  Phone: (804) 786-3921

  TTY: (804) 371-8977

  Email: [email protected]

  Website

  For Medicaid waiver questions.
• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Website

  For SSI/SSDI questions.

• Can Tourette Syndrome qualify for SSI or SSDI in Virginia?

  Yes, if Tourette Syndrome severely limits your ability to work for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. SSI is for those with limited income, while SSDI requires a work history. Both programs have strict medical and financial criteria.

• Does Virginia Medicaid cover people with Tourette Syndrome?

  Yes, if you receive SSI or meet other criteria, you can get Medicaid in Virginia. Medicaid covers health care, therapy, and some disability-related services. SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid.

• What are Medicaid waivers in Virginia for Tourette Syndrome?

  Virginia offers Medicaid waivers for developmental disabilities, including Tourette Syndrome if it causes significant functional limitations. These waivers provide services like personal care, respite, and supported living. Contact your local CSB to apply.

• How do I apply for disability benefits in Virginia?

  Apply for SSI or SSDI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. For Medicaid waivers, contact your local Community Services Board. Gather medical records and proof of income before applying.

• Are there work requirements for Medicaid in Virginia?

  No, work requirements do not apply to those receiving disability benefits in Virginia. Adults aged 19-64 without a disability must meet work requirements by 2028, but people with disabilities are exempt.

• What is an ABLE account and how can it help?

  An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for disability-related expenses. Virginia residents can open one to save up to $100,000 without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for education, housing, and more.