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West Virginia • Speech/Language
People with aphasia in West Virginia can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. These programs help cover medical care, assistive technology, and daily living expenses.
Aphasia can qualify for Social Security disability benefits if it severely limits your ability to work or perform daily activities. To get Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. Both programs require proof that your disability is expected to last at least 12 months. Children with aphasia may also qualify for benefits if their condition meets Social Security’s definition of disability. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews medical records, work history, and daily functioning to decide eligibility. [^1]
In West Virginia, people with aphasia may qualify for Medicaid waivers that cover home and community-based services, helping them live independently. The state also offers ABLE accounts (WVABLE), which let people save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. West Virginia’s Division of Rehabilitation Services (WVDRS) provides vocational rehabilitation and assistive technology support. Centers for Independent Living and advocacy groups offer information, skills training, and peer support. Eligibility for state programs often depends on income, disability severity, and need for services. [^2][^3][^4]
WVABLE is West Virginia’s ABLE account program. It lets people with disabilities save and invest money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the account for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, transportation, and assistive technology. To open an account, visit wvtreasury.gov/Citizens/WVABLE. [^3]
For SSI, the federal income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual. SSDI has no income limit, but you must have a qualifying work history. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size. ABLE accounts have annual contribution limits, but savings do not count against SSI or Medicaid resource limits. [^1]
If you get too much SSI or SSDI, you may have to pay it back. Report changes in income, living situation, or disability status to Social Security. For Medicaid, report changes to the Bureau for Medical Services. Reporting helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate. [^1]
Disability Rights West Virginia and the WVU Center for Excellence in Disabilities offer free advocacy and support for people with disabilities applying for benefits.
Yes, if aphasia severely limits your ability to work or perform daily activities, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must provide medical proof and meet income or work history requirements.
West Virginia offers Medicaid waivers like CDCSP and TBIW. These programs help people with disabilities live at home and receive specialized care, including speech therapy and assistive technology.
Visit wvtreasury.gov/Citizens/WVABLE to open a WVABLE account. This lets you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses.
West Virginia’s Assistive Technology System (WVATS) helps people choose and get devices and software for communication, like speech-generating devices and apps.
Yes, SSI and SSDI have work incentives. You can try working without losing benefits. Report your earnings to Social Security to avoid overpayments.
You can appeal within 60 days of denial. An attorney can help with the process. Gather medical records and work history to support your appeal.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Centers for Independent Living and advocacy groups offer information, skills training, and peer support. The WVU CED Family to Family program provides resources and webinars.
Yes, report changes in income, living situation, or disability status to Social Security and Medicaid. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate.
Yes, children with aphasia may qualify for SSI or Medicaid waivers if their condition meets Social Security’s definition of disability. Parents can apply on their behalf.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources. SSDI is for those with a work history. Both require proof of disability lasting at least 12 months. SSI has income limits, SSDI does not.
