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West Virginia • Neurological/Developmental
People with intellectual disabilities in West Virginia can access federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, Medicaid waivers for home care, and ABLE accounts for savings. The application process can be complex, but help is available from state agencies and legal advocates.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a severe impairment that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. Both programs require medical proof of your disability. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your application and medical records to decide if you meet the criteria.
West Virginia does not have its own state disability program. Residents must apply for federal SSI and SSDI benefits. However, West Virginia offers Medicaid waiver programs that help people with intellectual disabilities receive care at home instead of in institutions. These waivers have specific eligibility rules, including income limits and a need for specialized services. The state also has an ABLE account program (WVABLE) that lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. [^4]
WVABLE is West Virginia’s ABLE account program. People with intellectual disabilities can save and invest money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Accounts have annual and lifetime contribution limits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation. [^6]
SSI has strict income and asset limits. In 2025, the federal SSI limit is $943 per month for an individual. SSDI has no income limit, but your earnings must be below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level. Medicaid and Medicaid waiver programs have their own income and asset rules. [^2]
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the Social Security Administration and Medicaid agencies promptly. Failure to report can result in penalties or loss of benefits. [^12]
Disability Rights West Virginia offers free advocacy and legal help for people with intellectual disabilities. Contact them for support with applications and appeals.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid into Social Security. Both programs cover intellectual disabilities if the condition meets SSA’s criteria.
Contact the Bureau for Medical Services or the Center for Excellence in Disabilities. You will need to provide proof of income, disability, and need for home-based care. Applications are reviewed based on eligibility criteria.
Yes, you can open a WVABLE account. This lets you save and invest without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. There are annual and lifetime contribution limits.
Most initial claims are denied. You can appeal within 60 days. Many people need to appeal and may benefit from legal help. The appeals process can take up to two years.
Yes, SSI and SSDI have work incentives that let you keep some benefits while you work. These include trial work periods and continued Medicaid coverage.
It takes an average of 6.1 months to get an initial decision. If you appeal, the process can take up to two years. Most people are initially denied and need to appeal.
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.
You need records from doctors, hospitals, and therapists that show your diagnosis, treatment, and how your disability affects your daily life. Be sure to include all relevant records.
Yes, Disability Rights West Virginia and other organizations offer advocacy and legal help. You can also hire a disability attorney to guide you through the process.
The average SSI payment in West Virginia is $620.09 per month. The actual amount depends on your income and resources.
The average SSDI payment in West Virginia is $1,344.70 per month. The actual amount depends on your work history and earnings.
