Open a Purple account in minutes. Banking built for people with disabilities.
West Virginia • Mental Health
People with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in West Virginia can qualify for federal and state benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for Social Security disability benefits with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), you must prove that your condition prevents you from working for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a strict definition of disability. You must have a severe mental impairment that stops you from doing substantial work. PTSD is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book under mental disorders. You need medical evidence, such as therapy notes and diagnosis records, to support your claim. If you worked and paid into Social Security, you may qualify for SSDI. If you have limited income and resources, you may qualify for SSI. Both programs require ongoing medical proof of your disability[7].
In West Virginia, people with PTSD can access state-specific programs and supports. The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (WVDRS) helps people with disabilities, including PTSD, find employment and related services. The West Virginia Assistive Technology System (WVATS) provides resources for assistive technology. The West Virginia Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) promotes independence and inclusion. The West Virginia Developmental Disabilities Council supports people with disabilities in the community. WVABLE allows people with disabilities to save and invest without losing public benefits. These programs are open to people with PTSD who meet eligibility criteria[4].
WVABLE is a state ABLE account program for people with disabilities in West Virginia. It lets you save and invest money without losing eligibility for public benefits like SSI or Medicare. Many people with PTSD use WVABLE to build financial security. You can open an account online or by phone. The West Virginia State Treasurer’s Office manages WVABLE[2][4].
For SSI, the income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. SSDI has no strict income limit, but you must not be able to do substantial work. Medicaid income limits vary by household size and state rules. Check with your local Medicaid office for exact numbers[7][8].
If you get too much SSI or SSDI, you may have to pay it back. Report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to Social Security. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits safe. Use the SSA website or call your local office to report changes[3].
Call 211 for direct access to health and human services in West Virginia. Local agencies can help with benefits, housing, and legal aid[5].
State legal aid programs offer free or low-cost legal help for people with disabilities. They can help with appeals and complex cases[5].
Yes, PTSD is recognized as a disability by Social Security. You must prove it stops you from working for at least 12 months. Medical evidence is required. Both SSDI and SSI are available in West Virginia[7][3].
You can apply online at ssa.gov or at your local Social Security office. You need medical records and therapy notes. The SSA will review your case and decide if you qualify[3][7].
SSDI is for people who worked and paid into Social Security. SSI is for people with limited income and resources. Both programs help people with disabilities, including PTSD[7][4].
Yes, WVABLE is a state ABLE account program that lets you save and invest without losing SSI or Medicaid. Many people with PTSD use WVABLE for financial security[2][4].
If your claim is denied, you have 60 days to appeal. You can ask for a reconsideration or a hearing. An SSI attorney can help with appeals[3].
Yes, West Virginia offers programs like WVDRS, WVATS, SILC, and WVABLE. These help with employment, assistive technology, independent living, and financial security[4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
You can call 211 for direct health and human services. State legal aid programs offer free or low-cost legal help. Local agencies can guide you through the process[5].
You need a diagnosis from a mental health professional, therapy notes, and treatment history. The SSA will review your medical records to decide if you qualify[7].
Yes, there are work incentives for people with disabilities. You can try to work without losing your benefits. Check the SSA’s rules for SSI and SSDI work incentives[7].
It can take several months to get a decision. The SSA may request more information. If denied, you can appeal within 60 days[3].
