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West Virginia • Rare/Genetic
People with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome in West Virginia can access federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, state Medicaid waivers, ABLE accounts, and support services. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in West Virginia, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and enough work credits. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources. Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome can qualify if it severely limits your ability to work or live independently. Both programs require medical evidence and a formal application. Children with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome may also qualify for benefits if their condition meets the criteria [^1].
In West Virginia, people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome may also qualify for state-specific programs. Medicaid waivers allow individuals to receive care at home instead of in institutions. The West Virginia Assistive Technology System (WVATS) helps people access devices and supports. The West Virginia Independence Network (WIN) offers advocacy and peer support. The West Virginia Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) promotes full inclusion and choice for people with disabilities. Eligibility for these programs depends on your specific needs and financial situation [^2][^3][^4][^5].
WVABLE accounts allow people with disabilities in West Virginia to save and invest without losing eligibility for public benefits like SSI or Medicare. You can open an account online at wvtreasury.gov/Citizens/WVABLE. There are annual contribution limits and account balance limits, but these do not affect your eligibility for other benefits. WVABLE is a great option for people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome who want to save for future needs [^3][^5].
For SSI, the federal income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. SSDI has no income limit, but you must not be able to do substantial work. Medicaid and Medicaid waivers have their own income and asset limits, which vary by program. WVABLE accounts have annual contribution limits of $18,000 and a total account balance limit of $100,000 [^1][^3][^5].
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and Medicaid as soon as possible. Failure to report changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Use the Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide for more details [^4].
Contact the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services or the West Virginia Independence Network (WIN) for free advocacy and support with your benefits application.
Yes, if Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome prevents you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must provide medical evidence and meet the program's income and resource requirements.
West Virginia offers Medicaid waivers like the Children with Disabilities Community Service Program (CDCSP) and Traumatic Brain Injury Waiver (TBIW). These programs help people receive care at home instead of in institutions.
You can apply for a WVABLE account online at wvtreasury.gov/Citizens/WVABLE. You must have a disability that started before age 26 and meet the program's eligibility requirements.
The West Virginia Assistive Technology System (WVATS) provides information and support for assistive technology. You can contact WVATS for help finding devices and services.
The federal income limit for SSI in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. SSDI has no income limit, but you must not be able to do substantial work.
Yes, there are work incentives for SSI and SSDI recipients. You can earn some income without losing benefits, but there are limits. Use the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide for more details.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Medicaid is for low-income individuals and those with disabilities. Medicare is for people 65+ or those with certain disabilities. Both provide health insurance, but eligibility and coverage differ.
You can appeal a denied claim within 60 days. You can file an appeal online, by phone, or in person. Consider hiring an SSI attorney for help with the appeals process.
The annual contribution limit for a WVABLE account is $18,000. The total account balance limit is $100,000. These limits do not affect your eligibility for other benefits.
You can get help from the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services, the West Virginia Independence Network (WIN), or a local SSI attorney. These organizations offer advocacy and support for people with disabilities.
