People with Huntington’s Disease in West Virginia can get federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state programs for Medicaid, assistive technology, and employment support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
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. Huntington’s Disease is recognized by the Social Security Administration (SSA) as a qualifying condition if it severely limits your ability to work. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must also have limited income and resources. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and enough work credits. Both programs require a detailed medical review to confirm your disability status [1].
In West Virginia, people with Huntington’s Disease may qualify for additional state programs. These include Medicaid for health coverage, ABLE accounts for saving without losing benefits, and support from the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (WVDRS) for employment and assistive technology. The state also has Centers for Independent Living and advocacy organizations that help with housing, employment, and daily living needs. To get these benefits, you must meet federal eligibility rules and any state-specific requirements, such as residency and income limits [2].
WVABLE is West Virginia’s ABLE account program. People with Huntington’s Disease can save and invest money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can open an account online at wvtreasury.gov/WVABLE. ABLE accounts let you save up to $16,000 per year (2023 limit) and have a total balance limit of $100,000 without losing SSI. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other disability-related expenses [5].
For SSI in West Virginia, the income limit is $914 per month for an individual (2023). For Medicaid, limits vary by program and household size. ABLE accounts do not count toward SSI or Medicaid resource limits, but withdrawals for housing count as income for SSI. Always report changes to avoid overpayments [7].
If your income or resources change, you must report it to Social Security and Medicaid. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. For SSI, report changes online, by phone, or in person. For Medicaid, report changes through dhhr.wv.gov or by calling 1-877-716-1212. ABLE account withdrawals for housing must be reported to SSI [7].
If you need help with your application or appeal, contact a disability attorney or legal aid program. Many offer free or low-cost services for people with disabilities in West Virginia.
Yes, Huntington’s Disease is recognized by the Social Security Administration as a qualifying disability if it prevents you from working for at least 12 months. You must apply for SSI or SSDI and provide medical proof of your condition [1].
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need medical records and proof of income. Most initial claims are denied, so consider getting help from a disability attorney [3].
Yes, you can open a WVABLE ABLE account to save and invest money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. ABLE accounts let you save up to $16,000 per year and have a total balance limit of $100,000 without losing SSI [5].
You may qualify for Medicaid if you have low income, or for Medicare if you get SSDI. Medicaid covers health care for people with disabilities. Apply at dhhr.wv.gov or call 1-877-716-1212 [4].
The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (WVDRS) offers job training, assistive technology, and employment support. Contact WVDRS at wvdrs.org or call 1-800-642-8207 for help [6].
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, Centers for Independent Living and the West Virginia Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) offer advocacy, peer support, and skills training. Find local centers through wvsilc.org [2].
If your claim is denied, you can appeal within 60 days. You can file an appeal online, by phone, or in person. Consider getting help from a disability attorney or legal aid program to improve your chances of success [3].
For SSI, the income limit is $914 per month for an individual (2023). For Medicaid, limits vary by program and household size. ABLE accounts do not count toward SSI or Medicaid resource limits [7].
Yes, there are work incentives for people with disabilities. You can earn some income without losing benefits. Learn more about work incentives at ssa.gov/work [7].
Report changes to Social Security online, by phone, or in person. For Medicaid, report changes through dhhr.wv.gov or by calling 1-877-716-1212. Always report changes to avoid overpayments and penalties [7].
