Asthma Benefits in West Virginia: Eligibility, Programs & How to Apply

To qualify for federal disability benefits with asthma, you must prove your condition prevents you from working for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at how asthma affects your ability to do basic work tasks, like walking, standing, or concentrating. You must also meet income and asset limits for SSI, or have enough work credits for SSDI. Most applicants are denied at first and must appeal. Medical records are critical for approval.

• SSI is for low-income individuals with limited assets.
• SSDI is for those who have paid into Social Security through work.
• Both programs require proof of disability and ongoing medical treatment.

Learn more about federal eligibility (SSA, 2025-11-06).

West Virginia does not have a state disability program. Residents must apply for federal SSI or SSDI through the Social Security Administration. However, West Virginia offers Medicaid waivers that can help people with asthma stay in their homes and receive care. These waivers are for those who would otherwise need nursing home care. The state also has ABLE accounts, which let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Local agencies like the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (WVDRS) can help with applications and advocacy.

• No state disability program; use federal SSI/SSDI.
• Medicaid waivers available for home care.
• ABLE accounts for savings.
• Local agencies offer support and advocacy.

Learn more about West Virginia Medicaid waivers (WVU CED, 2025-11-06).

• Gather medical records showing your asthma diagnosis and treatment.
• Apply online at ssa.gov or visit a local Social Security office.
• If denied, appeal within 60 days.
• Contact local agencies for help with Medicaid waivers or ABLE accounts.
• Consider hiring an attorney for appeals.

Start your application here (SSA, 2025-11-06).

• Step 1: Get medical records from your doctor, including diagnosis, treatment history, and how asthma affects your daily life.
• Step 2: Apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov or in person at a Social Security office.
• Step 3: Wait for a decision. Most applications are denied at first.
• Step 4: If denied, appeal within 60 days. You may need a hearing.
• Step 5: For Medicaid waivers, contact the Bureau for Medical Services or the WVU Center for Excellence in Disabilities.
• Step 6: For ABLE accounts, visit the WVABLE website.
• Step 7: Consider hiring an attorney for appeals or complex cases.

Learn more about the application process (Jandils, 2025-11-06).

• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): For low-income individuals with disabilities. Average payment in West Virginia is $620.09/month.
• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): For those who have worked and paid into Social Security. Average payment in West Virginia is $1,344.70/month.
• Medicaid: Federal health insurance for low-income individuals. Can cover asthma medications and treatments.
• Medicare: Federal health insurance for those on SSDI after 24 months.

Learn more about federal programs (SSA, 2025-11-06).

• Medicaid Waivers: Programs like the Children with Disabilities Community Service Program (CDCSP) and Traumatic Brain Injury Waiver (TBIW) help people with asthma stay in their homes and receive care. These waivers can cover home health aides, therapy, and medical equipment.
• WVABLE: ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility.
• West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (WVDRS): Helps people with disabilities find jobs and access services.
• West Virginia Assistive Technology System (WVATS): Provides resources for assistive technology, like nebulizers or oxygen equipment.
• West Virginia Independence Network (WIN): Offers advocacy, skills training, and peer support.

Learn more about state programs (WVDRS, 2025-11-06).

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 medical care, education, or housing. Contributions are limited, but the account can grow tax-free.

Learn more about WVABLE (WV State Treasurer, 2025-11-06).

For SSI, the income limit in 2025 is $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple. SSDI has no income limit, but you must have enough work credits. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size.

Learn more about income limits (SSA, 2025-11-06).

If you get too much SSI or SSDI, you may have to pay it back. Report changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to the SSA. Overpayments can happen if you don’t report changes or if there’s a mistake.

Learn how to avoid overpayments (Internal, 2025-11-06).

• West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services
  Phone: 1-800-642-8207

  Website

  Offers support for disability applications and employment services.
• West Virginia State Treasurer's Office (WVABLE)
  Phone: 304-340-5050

  Email: [email protected]

  Website

  For questions about ABLE accounts.

• Can asthma qualify for disability benefits in West Virginia?

  Yes, if your asthma is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months. You must provide medical records and meet income or work credit requirements for SSI or SSDI.

• How do I apply for SSI or SSDI in West Virginia?

  Apply online at ssa.gov or visit a local Social Security office. You’ll need medical records and personal information. Most people are denied at first and must appeal.

• What is a Medicaid waiver and how can it help with asthma?

  A Medicaid waiver helps people with asthma stay in their homes and receive care instead of going to a nursing home. It can cover home health aides, therapy, and medical equipment.

• Can I save money if I get SSI in West Virginia?

  Yes, through WVABLE, West Virginia’s ABLE account program. You can save and invest without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.

• How long does it take to get approved for disability in West Virginia?

  It takes about 6 months for an initial decision. Most people are denied at first and must appeal, which can take up to 2 years.

• What if my disability application is denied?

  You can appeal within 60 days. Most appeals require a hearing. Legal help can improve your chances of approval.

• Are there local agencies that can help with disability applications?