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West Virginia • Rare/Genetic
People with Williams Syndrome in West Virginia can access federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, state programs for assistive technology and employment, and ABLE accounts for saving without losing benefits. The process starts with Social Security, but local agencies offer extra help.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and be disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older. Williams Syndrome may qualify if it causes severe functional limitations that prevent work for at least 12 months. Children with Williams Syndrome may also qualify for SSI if their condition meets Social Security’s childhood disability criteria [^1].
West Virginia does not have a state disability program for adults or children. However, people with Williams Syndrome can access Medicaid, which covers health care and some disability-related services. Children may qualify for Medicaid waivers if they have complex needs. West Virginia also offers ABLE accounts, which let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. The state’s Division of Rehabilitation Services helps people with disabilities find jobs and get assistive technology. Local agencies like the West Virginia Assistive Technology System and the Center for Excellence in Disabilities provide extra support and resources [^2][^3][^4].
WVABLE is West Virginia’s ABLE account program. People with disabilities can save and invest up to $17,000 per year without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. ABLE accounts can be used for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, transportation, and health care. To open an account, visit the WVABLE website or call 304-340-5050 [^3][^4].
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. The resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size. ABLE accounts do not count toward SSI or Medicaid resource limits, but withdrawals for non-qualified expenses may affect benefits [^1][^2][^3].
If your income or resources change, you must report it to Social Security to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you get too much money or don’t report changes. If you get an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan. Always keep records of your income and report changes as soon as possible [^1][^2][^4].
Most initial disability claims are denied in West Virginia. Local agencies like the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services and the Center for Excellence in Disabilities can help with appeals and extra support.
Yes, Williams Syndrome can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it causes severe functional limitations that prevent work for at least 12 months. Children may also qualify for SSI if their condition meets Social Security’s childhood disability criteria [^1][^2].
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. Most initial claims are denied, so be ready to appeal if needed. Local agencies can help with the process [^1][^2][^4].
The average SSDI payment in West Virginia is about $1,345 per month. The average SSI payment is about $620 per month. Payments depend on your income and work history [^2].
Yes, you can open a WVABLE ABLE account. ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save and invest without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the money for qualified disability expenses [^3][^4].
West Virginia offers Medicaid, ABLE accounts, assistive technology, employment services, and advocacy through agencies like WVDRS, WVATS, and the Center for Excellence in Disabilities [^2][^3][^4][^5].
It takes an average of 6.1 months to get an initial disability decision in West Virginia. Most people are denied at first and need to appeal, which can take up to two years [^2][^4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
You don’t need a lawyer, but legal help can improve your chances of success, especially if your claim is denied. Lawyers only get paid if you win, and their fees are limited [^4].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, including children. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid into Social Security. Both programs can help people with Williams Syndrome [^1][^2].
Yes, children with Williams Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid if their family meets income and resource limits. Children with complex needs may also qualify for Medicaid waivers [^2][^5].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save and invest without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. West Virginia’s program is called WVABLE. You can use the money for qualified disability expenses [^3][^4].
