People in Virginia with a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can get help through federal programs like SSI and SSDI, and state programs such as Medicaid waivers. These benefits can cover medical care, daily living supports, and financial help. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what services are available.
To get federal disability benefits in Virginia, you must meet Social Security’s definition of disability. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough work credits. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. Both programs require that your disability (including TBI) is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews medical records and work history to decide eligibility[1].
Both programs have strict rules about income and assets. The SSA uses a list of impairments, including neurological disorders, to help decide if your TBI is severe enough to qualify[1].
In Virginia, people with a Traumatic Brain Injury may qualify for Medicaid through the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) program if they meet federal disability standards[4]. Virginia also offers Medicaid waivers for people with developmental disabilities, which can include TBI if it causes long-term functional limitations. These waivers provide home and community-based services like personal care, respite, and supported living[5].
There is a waiting list for Medicaid waivers, and slots are assigned based on urgency of need. You must apply through your local Community Services Board (CSB). Virginia does not require work for Medicaid if you receive disability benefits, so people with TBI are not affected by new work requirements for other adults[6].
Virginia also has special programs for brain injury services, including case management and rehabilitation supports[5].
Virginia residents with a Traumatic Brain Injury can open an ABLE account to save money for disability-related expenses. These accounts do not count toward SSI or Medicaid asset limits, so you can save up to $100,000 without losing benefits. ABLE accounts can be used for housing, education, transportation, and more[9].
If your income, resources, or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security and Medicaid. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits. Use the SSA’s online portal or call your local office to report changes. For Medicaid, report changes to your local CSB or Medicaid office[7].
Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) for help with Medicaid waiver applications and brain injury services. They can guide you through the process and connect you to local resources.
Yes, if your TBI meets federal disability standards, you can qualify for Medicaid through the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) program. If you get SSI, you will automatically qualify for Medicaid in Virginia[3][4].
Virginia offers three Medicaid waivers for people with developmental disabilities, which can include TBI: Building Independence, Family & Individual Support, and Community Living. These waivers provide home and community-based services like personal care and supported living[5].
Contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) to apply for Medicaid waiver services. The CSB will help you complete the application and determine your eligibility for home and community-based supports[5].
No, work requirements for Medicaid do not apply to people with disabilities in Virginia. If you receive disability benefits, you are exempt from work requirements[6].
Yes, Social Security has work incentive programs that let you work and keep your benefits up to a point. In 2025, the SGA limit is expected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals[10].
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. Virginia residents with a TBI can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid[9].
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, Virginia provides case management, rehabilitation, and support services for people with brain injuries through the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services[5].
In 2025, the federal maximum SSI payment is $967 per month for an individual, $1,450 for a couple, and $484 for an essential person. Virginia follows these limits[3].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for people with a work history. In Virginia, SSI eligibility means Medicaid eligibility, but SSDI does not automatically mean Medicaid eligibility[3][8].
Yes, you may qualify for programs like LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) to help with utility bills. These programs are still available in Virginia as of 2025[11].
