If you live in West Virginia and have cancer, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, healthcare coverage, and savings options. This guide covers how to apply for SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, WVABLE accounts, and highlights local resources for people with cancer and other chronic illnesses.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have a medical condition (including cancer) that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. SSDI requires work credits, while SSI is based on financial need. See SSI vs SSDI for a full comparison.
Generally, you need 40 work credits (20 earned in the last 10 years) for SSDI[7]. SSI looks at income and resources, with strict limits. Both programs require detailed medical records showing your disability limits your ability to work[7].
West Virginia follows federal guidelines for SSI/SSDI, but the application process can be challenging—many initial claims are denied, often due to incomplete paperwork[4]. Consider working with a local SSI attorney or advocate for help. The state also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities (including cancer) who need in-home care—these waivers help you avoid institutionalization by providing supports at home[2].
For employment support, the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (WVDRS) helps people with disabilities, including cancer, find and keep jobs[5]. The West Virginia Assistive Technology System (WVATS) provides technology and devices to help with daily living and independence[5]. WVABLE accounts let you save and invest without losing eligibility for public benefits like SSI or Medicaid[3][5].
Start your application for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local Social Security office. For Medicaid, apply online through the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources. Consider reaching out to a disability advocate or attorney for help—many initial claims are denied without expert assistance[4].
SSI/SSDI Application Steps
Medicaid and Waivers
WVABLE and Other Supports
If you have cancer and meet federal criteria, you may qualify for SSDI (if you have enough work credits) or SSI (based on financial need). These programs provide monthly income and, in some cases, access to Medicare or Medicaid. You may also qualify for federal housing, nutrition, and transportation assistance for people with disabilities.
See SSI vs SSDI for more details on federal disability programs.
West Virginia offers several programs specifically for people with disabilities, including cancer:
Contact 211 or visit wv211.org for more services and referrals[6].
West Virginia’s WVABLE program lets you save and invest money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other public benefits[3][5]. This is especially helpful for covering expenses related to cancer treatment, travel, or adaptive equipment. Learn more at wvsto.gov/Citizens/WVABLE.
See ABLE Accounts for a full guide.
SSI has strict income and resource limits—generally, you cannot have more than $2,000 in assets ($3,000 for couples). WVABLE lets you save above these limits without penalty. For SSDI, there is no asset limit, but you must have enough work credits. Medicaid also has income limits, but waivers may expand eligibility for people with disabilities[7].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security and Medicaid to avoid overpayments, which you may have to pay back. Use the SSI Income Estimator and review Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes for best practices.
Cancer can qualify you for SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid if it severely limits your ability to work for at least 12 months. The key is thorough medical documentation—include all treatments, side effects, and statements from your doctors. Many initial claims are denied, but appeals with complete records often succeed.
If you have cancer and rely on SSI or Medicaid, you can open a WVABLE account. This lets you save and invest money for medical costs, housing, transportation, and more—without losing your benefits. It’s a powerful tool for financial independence and security.
Yes, but your income must stay below SSI or SSDI limits. Both programs have work incentives and allow trial work periods. Contact the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services for help returning to work under these rules, and see [SSI & SSDI Work Incentives](/guides/work-incentives) for details.
Submit complete medical records, treatment history, and a statement from your doctor about how cancer limits your ability to work. The SSA looks for evidence that your condition will last at least 12 months or result in death.
You have 60 days to appeal. Consider contacting a disability attorney or advocate—many initial claims are denied, but appeals with professional help have a better chance of approval[4].
Yes, Medicaid waivers allow people with disabilities, including cancer, to receive care at home instead of in a nursing facility. Contact the Center for Excellence in Disabilities for details[2].
WVABLE is a savings account that lets you set aside money without losing SSI or Medicaid. It’s helpful for medical expenses, adaptive equipment, and other needs related to cancer[3][5].
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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Legal aid organizations and disability advocates can help with paperwork and appeals. Call 211 for referrals to local services, or contact the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services[5][6].
No, but a lawyer can improve your chances, especially if your initial claim is denied. Many attorneys only charge if you win your case[4].
WVATS provides devices and tools to help with daily activities and independence. Contact them directly for personalized recommendations[5].
Visit ssa.gov, call 1-800-772-1213, or go to a local Social Security office for help with SSI and SSDI applications.
In some cases, you may qualify for both—this is called “concurrent benefits.” Your eligibility depends on your work history and income. See [SSI vs SSDI](/guides/ssi-ssdi) for details.
