Assistance for Disabled Single Mothers in Virginia
Assistance for Disabled Single Mothers in Virginia: 2025 Hub Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, no‑fluff guide for disabled single moms in Virginia. It focuses on disability‑specific help you can use now—programs designed for people with disabilities, not general benefits for everyone.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call or text 2‑1‑1 Virginia to get a same‑day referral to rent help, utility protections, and local disability resources. Ask for agencies that prioritize households with medical needs and request a callback. If you can’t dial 2‑1‑1 from your phone, use 1‑800‑230‑6977. (vec.virginia.gov)
- Ask your utility for a medical hold today. Tell them you have a “serious medical condition” in the home and request the utility’s certification form. Dominion (1‑866‑366‑4357) and Appalachian Power (1‑800‑956‑4237) both accept a doctor’s certification; state rules require a delay once you notify them. Use the words “Serious Medical Condition Certification.” (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Apply for disability‑based health coverage right now through Cover Virginia. If you’re working, ask for “Medicaid Works” (disability buy‑in). If you have serious health needs at home, ask about “CCC Plus waiver screening.” Call 1‑833‑5CALLVA (1‑833‑522‑5582, TTY 1‑888‑221‑1590) and submit documents online to save time. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy
- Medicaid apply/renew: Cover Virginia 1‑833‑5CALLVA (TTY 1‑888‑221‑1590). (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
- Medicaid transportation (NEMT) rides: DMAS Transportation Services and Modivcare reservations 1‑866‑386‑8331 (FFS members). (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Legal disability rights: disAbility Law Center of Virginia (dLCV) 1‑800‑552‑3962. For Medicaid denials: DMAS Appeals 1‑804‑371‑8488. (dlcv.org)
- Adult Protective Services (safety/abuse): APS Hotline 1‑888‑832‑3858 (24/7). (dss.virginia.gov)
- Assistive tech & low‑interest loans: Virginia Assistive Technology System (VATS) 1‑800‑552‑5019; Assistive Technology Loan Fund Authority (ATLFA) 1‑866‑835‑5976. (vats.virginia.gov)
Who This Guide Is For
This guide is written for disabled single moms in Virginia—mothers living with physical, mental, or developmental disabilities. We focus on targeted programs that consider disability or medical need.
- If you rely on a power‑dependent device, put links like Dominion Energy’s medical form and SCC medical disconnection protections in your phone favorites. (dominionenergy.com)
- If you work or want to work, flag Medicaid Works and Social Security’s Ticket to Work/WIPA helpline for one‑on‑one planning. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
Fast Navigation Tables
Disability‑Specific Programs You Can Use
| Program | Who It Helps | What You Get | Typical Timeline | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCC Plus Waiver | Adults/children with medical or disability‑related care needs at home | Personal care, respite, nursing, AT/home mods; no waiting list | Screening to approval varies by locality; ask for urgent if risk | DMAS Waivers via your local screener; call your DSS/AAA/CSB (dmas.virginia.gov) |
| Medicaid Works (disability buy‑in) | Disabled adults (16–64) who work | Keep Medicaid while earning more | Application decision after docs received | Cover Virginia (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov) |
| VATS + ATLFA | Any age with disability | Device demos/loans; low‑interest loans for AT & vehicle mods | Days to weeks | VATS, ATLFA (vats.virginia.gov) |
| ABLEnow | Eligible Virginians with disability onset before 26 (or 46 starting 2026) | Save up to $19,000 in 2025 without losing means‑tested benefits | Same‑day online opening | ABLEnow (ablenow.com) |
| Lifespan Respite Voucher | Family caregivers of Virginians with disabilities | Up to $595 reimbursement per family through June 30, 2026 | First‑come; limited funds | DARS Respite Voucher (virginianavigator.org) |
Health Coverage and In‑Home Care You Can Start Today
Most important step: Apply for disability‑based Medicaid or the Medicaid Works buy‑in through Cover Virginia. ABD Medicaid has monthly income standards (2025: 1,064forone;1,064 for one; 1,430 for two), and Medicaid Works lets you work and keep coverage up to 138% of the federal poverty level with resource rules that are friendlier to workers with disabilities. Apply by phone at 1‑833‑5CALLVA (TTY 1‑888‑221‑1590) or online. Expect to submit ID, proof of disability income, and medical bills. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
If you need help at home: Request a “CCC Plus waiver screening” when you apply or call your local DSS/AAA to schedule one. The CCC Plus Waiver serves all ages, covers personal care and respite, and does not have a waiting list statewide. If you also have a developmental disability, talk with your Community Services Board (CSB) about the DD Waiver waitlist and the “Priority 1” process. (dmas.virginia.gov)
Consumer‑Directed personal care: Ask for the “consumer‑directed” option so you can hire and schedule your own attendants. Check your plan handbook and the DMAS Transportation & Services page for current fiscal agent contacts and service facilitator steps. (dmas.virginia.gov)
How to apply:
- Start at Cover Virginia or use CommonHelp; phone help is available Mon–Fri with Saturday hours. Upload documents or email them to verify_docs@coverva.org (receive‑only inbox). (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
- If approved for managed care under Cardinal Care, you’ll choose among plans like Aetna, Anthem, Humana Healthy Horizons, Sentara, and UnitedHealthcare; Molina members moved to Humana on July 1, 2025. You can change plans during the choice window. Keep your ID card handy for transportation and care authorizations. (dmas.virginia.gov)
Reality Check: Processing times vary. Non‑crisis cases can take a couple of weeks once all documents are in; missing paystubs or ID slows it down. Always ask the call center to note “medical need at risk” if you have oxygen, dialysis, or similar needs. Keep fax/email confirmations.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call dLCV for legal help if services are denied or cut, and file an appeal through the DMAS Appeals portal. Appeals can preserve coverage if filed on time—ask for “aid continuing.” (dlcv.org)
Rides to Medical Care (including wheelchair vans)
Most important step: Book Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) once you have Medicaid. Fee‑for‑service trips and some plan rides go through Modivcare at 1‑866‑386‑8331; have your member ID, addresses, and appointment time ready. Check DMAS Transportation Services for the latest plan numbers and a member ride guide. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Some plans add extra non‑medical trips for community needs. For example, Humana lists rides for food banks and support groups—check your plan’s “extras” page and call member services on your ID card. (humana.com)
Paratransit (ADA rides): In Northern Virginia, apply for MetroAccess via the Transit Accessibility Center (202‑962‑2700); other areas have local ADA services (GRTC CARE in Richmond, HRT Paratransit in Hampton Roads, etc.). (wmata.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your ride is late or no‑show, call the plan’s ride assist line from your ID card. Report patterns to your plan’s grievance line and to DMAS Member Services so issues get fixed. If you live outside the NEMT service area for a specialist, ask for “long‑distance mileage at the higher rate” when medically necessary. (dmas.virginia.gov)
Disability Cash Benefits: SSI/SSDI and Work Rules
Most important step: Apply for SSI or SSDI if you meet Social Security’s disability rules. For 2025, federal SSI max is 967/month(individual)and967/month (individual) and 1,450/month (couple). SSDI checks rose 2.5% with the 2025 COLA. Apply online, by phone, or at your local office. (ssa.gov)
- 2025 “Substantial Gainful Activity” (how much you can earn and still be considered disabled) is 1,620/month(non‑blind)and1,620/month (non‑blind) and 2,700/month (blind). The Trial Work Period amount is $1,160/month. Use these to plan part‑time work with safety nets. (ssa.gov)
- Get free work‑incentive counseling: call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1‑866‑968‑7842 (TTY 1‑866‑833‑2967) and ask for your local WIPA project in Virginia. They’ll explain how earnings affect SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid. (ssa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If SSA denies your claim, appeal by the deadline printed on your notice. Call legal aid (see “Legal Help” section) and your doctors for updated records. If you lose Medicaid due to an SSA change but still need care, call Cover Virginia to review Medicaid options like ABD, Medically Needy, or Medicaid Works while you appeal. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
Assistive Technology, Home Mods, and Vehicle Adaptations
Most important step: Price the device, then pair VATS (try‑before‑you‑buy) with ATLFA (low‑interest financing). The Virginia Assistive Technology System offers device demos and short‑term loans statewide, plus reuse programs that can get you equipment fast. The Assistive Technology Loan Fund Authority provides below‑market loans for wheelchairs, lifts, communication devices, and modified vehicles—even with limited credit history. Typical interest is around 5% for most items (ask ATLFA about current vehicle rates). (vats.virginia.gov)
- Save for disability needs without losing SSI/Medicaid: open ABLEnow (Virginia’s ABLE program). 2025 annual contribution limit is 19,000,andVirginiaoffersuptoa19,000, and Virginia offers up to a 2,000 state tax deduction per contributor. Working account owners may contribute extra under ABLE to Work if they meet rules. (ablenow.com)
- Need short‑term caregiver relief to attend treatment or regain stamina? Apply for the Virginia Lifespan Respite Voucher for up to $595 reimbursement per family through June 30, 2026; funding is limited and runs out. (virginianavigator.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Medicaid plan about coverage for DME/AT or environmental mods through CCC Plus; some items require prior authorization. Contact VATS for reuse networks like F.R.E.E. and CATS if money is tight. (vats.virginia.gov)
How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Virginia Today
Most important step: Tell your utility you have a serious medical condition in the household and ask for their medical certification form. Under updated SCC rules, once a utility gets your notice, it must delay disconnection—15 days on notice (while you submit the form) and at least 30 more days with a filed certification. Dominion reports two 30‑day extensions per 12 months with a valid form. This doesn’t erase your bill, but it buys time to set a plan. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Dominion customers: email the form to DEMedical@domenergy.com or call 1‑866‑366‑4357; see Dominion’s medical page. Appalachian Power customers: download the Virginia medical form and call 1‑800‑956‑4237 for disconnection/medical flag help. Washington Gas customers can ask about hardship and energy‑efficiency programs. (dominionenergy.com)
- State law also blocks shutoffs on Fridays, weekends, state holidays or the day before a state holiday. Ask about payment plans and any seasonal disconnection limits or pilot programs in your territory. If you are denied a medical delay, file a complaint with the SCC. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 Virginia and ask for “utility assistance for households with documented medical need.” Some local programs prioritize medically fragile customers. If the utility won’t honor a medical delay, note date/time/rep name and escalate with the SCC complaint process. (vec.virginia.gov)
Property Tax Relief for Disabled Homeowners (Examples by County/City)
Many Virginia localities give property‑tax relief to homeowners who are “permanently and totally disabled,” often with income and asset limits. Always verify current thresholds with your Commissioner of the Revenue.
| Locality | Max Income (example) | Asset Limit (example) | Program Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Henrico County | $75,000 | $500,000 | REAP caps/exempts up to $3,200; deadline Apr 1. Call 1‑804‑501‑4263. (henrico.gov) |
| Fairfax County | Varies by relief type | Varies | Real estate and vehicle tax relief; renters may qualify for relief. Call 1‑703‑222‑8234 (TTY 711). (fairfaxcounty.gov) |
| City of Fairfax | $90,000 | $440,000 | Sliding‑scale exemption; renters have a program. Call 1‑703‑359‑2486. (fairfaxva.gov) |
| Roanoke City | $51,200 | $160,000 | Freeze/exemption programs; veteran exemptions separate. Call 1‑540‑853‑2523. (roanokeva.gov) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Treasurer about monthly installment options for disabled taxpayers (some counties offer 12‑pay). If denied, request a written decision and appeal with recent medical documentation.
Housing and Rent Help That Recognizes Disability
- Search units with accessibility filters at VirginiaHousingSearch.com. For accessible subsidized units, ask local housing authorities about “non‑elderly disabled” (Mainstream) vouchers and set a calendar reminder to check open waitlists. (virginiahousingsearch.com)
- If you or your child has a developmental disability, the DBHDS “My Life, My Community” site lists waiver info and supported housing resources. Virginia funded thousands of new Priority‑1 DD waiver slots through 2026, but many still wait—stay in touch with your CSB and keep your priority paperwork current. (dbhds.virginia.gov)
- For homelessness prevention or rapid rehousing, use 2‑1‑1 Virginia to reach your local Continuum of Care’s Coordinated Entry, and tell the screener you have a medical/disability need for “reasonable accommodations” in the process. (vec.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local legal aid for a “reasonable accommodation letter” under the Fair Housing Act. If a landlord refuses an accommodation for your disability, call dLCV for advocacy. (dlcv.org)
Food and Nutrition — Disability‑Specific Notes
- Disabled households can get SNAP using special rules like the medical expense deduction and an uncapped shelter deduction. See VDSS SNAP 2025 standards and ask a worker to apply disability deductions during your interview; bring receipts for out‑of‑pocket medical costs over $35/month. (dss.virginia.gov)
- If you use paratransit or NEMT, ask whether your Medicaid plan offers rides to food banks or WIC/SNAP offices as a value‑added benefit, or if local paratransit allows grocery trips. Some plans (e.g., Humana) list limited non‑medical trips. (humana.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If the SNAP amount is too low, request a case review and ask about the medical deduction and shelter rules for disabled households; take a representative to your recertification if needed. See a benefits advocate through 2‑1‑1. (vec.virginia.gov)
Child Support When Disability Changes Your Income
- If disability reduces your ability to work or pay, ask the Division of Child Support Enforcement (DCSE) to review and adjust your order. Call DCSE at 1‑800‑468‑8894 or use the MyChildSupport portal. Have proof of disability income, medical bills, and current work status. (dss.virginia.gov)
- If your benefits were cut or you lost Medicaid due to case errors, a DCSE worker can help coordinate with other agencies; note your disability and ask for reasonable accommodations for appointments.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Central Virginia Legal Aid Society or Legal Aid Works for advice on modification filings, and save all notices. (cvlas.org)
Legal Help and Advocacy (Free or Low‑Cost)
- For disability rights, denial of services, abuse/neglect, or access barriers, call the disAbility Law Center of Virginia at 1‑800‑552‑3962. They offer language line access and self‑advocacy materials. For mental health advocacy and community supports, call NAMI Virginia. (dlcv.org)
- For Medicaid denials or cuts, file through the DMAS Appeals portal and request “aid continuing” if applicable. Keep fax or upload receipts and medical letters. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- To find your local CIL for peer support and independence skills, use No Wrong Door (Easy Access) or contact VACIL/VAIL for a directory of Centers for Independent Living across Virginia. (easyaccess.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If one office can’t take your case, ask for another referral. Save deadlines—we see avoidable denials when appeals are filed late.
Transportation & Mobility — Disability Doc Toolkit
- Apply for a permanent or temporary disabled parking placard with DMV form MED‑10; placards are free, and permanent placards let you park up to four hours at metered spaces (local rules may vary). See DMV disability placards and rights/privileges. (dmv.virginia.gov)
- If you’re in Metro’s service area, apply for MetroAccess paratransit and ask for large print or alternate language application if needed; the Transit Accessibility Center can help (202‑962‑2700). (wmata.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your doctor to include functional limits (not just diagnosis) on forms. Appeal denials with updated therapy notes and mobility assessments.
Money & Work When You Have a Disability
- Keep Medicaid while working by enrolling in Medicaid Works. Entry income for 2025 is up to 138% FPL (about $1,820/month for one), with resource rules that allow you to save in specific accounts. Watch for policy updates from the General Assembly that may further raise limits. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
- For planning help, call Ticket to Work/WIPA at 1‑866‑968‑7842 and ask for a Community Work Incentives Coordinator in Virginia; WIPA is free if you get SSI/SSDI. Use ABLEnow to save part of your wages with tax advantages. (ssa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask DARS Vocational Rehabilitation about training, accommodations, and assistive tech for school or work, including referrals to the Wilson Workforce & Rehabilitation Center. (dars.virginia.gov)
Diverse Communities: Tailored Pointers
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Request a “chosen name” on plan records and clinic portals; ask for an LGBTQ+ friendly provider list via No Wrong Door and support from NAMI Virginia if mental health care was delayed due to bias. Ask your Medicaid plan for privacy accommodations if safety is a concern. (easyaccess.virginia.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Contact the Women Veterans Program at Virginia DVS and the VA Caregiver program for respite and equipment; apply for state disabled‑veteran property tax exemptions if you have a 100% P&T rating. Pair VA medical care with DMAS Cardinal Care if eligible. (dvs.virginia.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Ask Cover Virginia about full Medicaid for qualified non‑citizens or “Emergency Services Medicaid” for life‑threatening events. Get case management through refugee resettlement agencies (e.g., IRC or Commonwealth Catholic Charities) and request interpreters at all state offices. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
- Tribal citizens: Contact your tribe and the state Indian relations office for assistance letters; look into IHS/638 clinics and ask your Medicaid plan to coordinate. Keep a copy of your tribal enrollment card with your disability paperwork for identity proof and cultural accommodations.
- Rural single moms: Use VATS for device loans shipped to you and No Wrong Door for local transportation programs and home modifications. If rides fail, ask your plan for mileage reimbursement to specialists. (vats.virginia.gov)
- Single fathers: You can use every program here. Note your disability when working with DCSE so review/adjustment is set correctly and appointments are accessible. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Language access and accessibility: Request large‑print forms, TTY, captioned calls, or ASL interpreters. Call VDDHH for Virginia Relay, equipment distribution, and interpreting assistance; state hotlines accept 7‑1‑1. (vddhh.virginia.gov)
Resources by Region (Quick Pointers)
- Northern Virginia (NOVA): Paratransit via WMATA MetroAccess 202‑962‑2700; independence services at ECNV; property‑tax relief through Fairfax Tax Administration 1‑703‑222‑8234. (wmata.com)
- Richmond/Central: Apply or renew benefits with Cover Virginia; legal help at Central Virginia Legal Aid Society; property‑tax relief via your locality’s Commissioner of the Revenue. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
- Hampton Roads/Tidewater: If you’re a Dominion customer, request the medical form today; veterans can connect through Virginia Beach’s Vets services; Virginia Beach also has senior/disabled tax relief (call 1‑757‑385‑4385). (dominionenergy.com)
- Roanoke/Blue Ridge & Southwest: ADA rides via local CILs like BRILC; tax relief through Roanoke City. Use 2‑1‑1 for church funds that prioritize medical need. (roanokeva.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the “disability” box on applications. Always check it and attach proof (SSA award, doctor letter). On Cover Virginia, choosing ABD/Medicaid Works routes your case to the right rules. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
- Not asking for a medical hold before a utility disconnection date. Calling early triggers an immediate delay while your doctor signs the form, per SCC rules. Use the term “Serious Medical Condition Certification.” (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Waiting to appeal. File the appeal first with DMAS Appeals, then send more proof. Appeals often protect your coverage during review. (dmas.virginia.gov)
Reality Check
- Medicaid changes in 2025: Plan lineups shifted on July 1, 2025 (Humana replaced Molina). Benefits didn’t change, but plan networks did—confirm your doctors and pharmacy in your new plan and request continuity of care if needed. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- DD waiver demand remains high: CCC Plus waiver has no waitlist, but DD waivers still do; keep your Priority‑1 paperwork current. Virginia funded more slots through 2026, but allocation takes time. (dmas.virginia.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | Who to Contact | Link/Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Apply for Medicaid/Medicaid Works | Cover Virginia | 1‑833‑5CALLVA (TTY 1‑888‑221‑1590) (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov) |
| Request NEMT ride | DMAS Transportation Services | Modivcare 1‑866‑386‑8331 (FFS) (dmas.virginia.gov) |
| Stop a shutoff (medical) | Dominion medical form; SCC rules | Dominion 1‑866‑366‑4357; ApCo 1‑800‑956‑4237 (dominionenergy.com) |
| Disability legal help | dLCV | 1‑800‑552‑3962 (dlcv.org) |
| Lifespan Respite Voucher | DARS Voucher | Email/phone on site (virginianavigator.org) |
| ABLE savings | ABLEnow | 1‑844‑669‑2253 (ablenow.com) |
Application Checklist (print or screenshot)
- Photo ID (license or other), Social Security card, and your child’s IDs
- Proof of disability (SSA award, physician letter, or waiver paperwork)
- Income proof (paystubs, SSDI/SSI letter, child support, alimony)
- Medical bills/receipts (for SNAP medical deduction and ABD/Medically Needy)
- Utility shutoff notice and medical device letter (for utility medical hold)
- Rent/lease and eviction papers (if asking for emergency housing funds)
- Doctor contact info (for NEMT and medical certification forms)
- Preferred pharmacy and providers (for Medicaid plan continuity)
- Paratransit/NEMT trip details (dates/times/addresses)
If Your Application Gets Denied (Troubleshooting)
- Medicaid/waivers: File an appeal online at DMAS Appeals within the deadline, ask for “aid continuing,” and upload missing documents. Call your local CIL or dLCV for support. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- SSI/SSDI: Appeal to the next level immediately in your my Social Security account, then request your file and add updated records. Ask Ticket to Work/WIPA how to work safely while appeals are pending. (ssa.gov)
- Utility protections: Re‑submit the medical form, then call your doctor’s nurse to confirm the fax/email went through. If the utility still refuses, file an SCC complaint and ask a legal aid to send a demand letter citing “Serious Medical Condition Certification.” Link your case to 20VAC5‑330‑40. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups
- Contact No Wrong Door (Virginia Easy Access) for person‑centered options counseling, and use 2‑1‑1 Virginia to locate churches and nonprofits that can document medical hardship for you. (easyaccess.virginia.gov)
- For mental health peer groups and family support, reach out to NAMI Virginia and ask for local meetings. For brain injury supports, ask your CSB to connect you with regional brain injury programs and lists maintained by DBHDS. (namivirginia.org)
- Deaf/Hard‑of‑Hearing moms can get relay, captioned phones, and interpreter referrals from VDDHH. For independent living skills and equipment, contact your nearest CIL via VACIL/VAIL directory. (vddhh.virginia.gov)
County‑Specific Variations That Matter
- Property tax relief varies a lot. Henrico’s REAP offers up to 3,200inreliefwithincome≤3,200 in relief with income ≤75,000 and net worth ≤$500,000 (excludes home and up to 10 acres). Fairfax offers real estate, vehicle, and renter relief programs with separate limits. Mark your county’s deadline on your phone. (henrico.gov)
- Paratransit coverage differs. NOVA uses MetroAccess, while other regions have local systems through transit agencies or CILs—ask your CIL for the right application. (wmata.com)
Tables You Can Use
2025 Medicaid and Related Disability Numbers (Virginia)
| Program | 2025 Income Guide (1 person) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ABD Medicaid (full‑benefit) | $1,064/mo (single) | Resource limits apply; ask about Medically Needy if over. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov) |
| Medicaid Works (entry) | Up to 138% FPL (~$1,820/mo) | Worker‑friendly resource rules; watch for updates. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov) |
| Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI) | Up to 135% FPL varies | Helps pay Medicare costs; resource limits apply. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov) |
2025 Social Security Disability Key Amounts
| Item | 2025 Amount | Where It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| SSI federal benefit rate | 967/mo(individual);967/mo (individual); 1,450/mo (couple) | Base SSI before state/other adjustments. (ssa.gov) |
| SGA (non‑blind / blind) | 1,620/1,620 / 2,700 | Earnings threshold for disability decisions. (ssa.gov) |
| Trial Work Period | $1,160/mo | Counts months you “test” work on SSDI. (ssa.gov) |
Utility Shutoff Protections Snapshot
| Protection | What It Does | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Medical certification hold | 15‑day delay after notice; 30‑day (or more) with filed form | SCC rule 20VAC5‑330‑40 (law.lis.virginia.gov) |
| Dominion medical extensions | Up to two 30‑day extensions in 12 months with form | Dominion Energy (dominionenergy.com) |
| No shutoffs Fri/weekends/holidays | Added time to arrange help | Va. Code §56‑245.1:3 (law.lis.virginia.gov) |
AT, Respite, and Savings Programs
| Program | 2025 Highlight | How to Start |
|---|---|---|
| ABLEnow | 19,000annualcontribution;VA19,000 annual contribution; VA 2,000 state tax deduction per contributor | Open online; request debit card |
| VATS | Device demos/loans; reuse networks | Call for consult; device tryout |
| Lifespan Respite | Up to $595 per family through 6/30/2026 | Apply early; limited funds |
Transportation Reference
| Service | Region | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| NEMT (Modivcare/Plans) | Statewide | Call plan/Modivcare; check DMAS ride guides |
| MetroAccess (ADA) | NOVA/DC/MD | Apply via Transit Accessibility Center |
| DMV Disabled Placard | Statewide | Submit MED‑10; free placard |
FAQs (Virginia, Disability‑Focused)
- How fast can I get in‑home help under Medicaid? If you qualify medically and financially, the CCC Plus Waiver has no waitlist, but screenings, plan enrollment, and staffing can take weeks. Ask for consumer‑directed services to hire someone you trust and request an expedited start if your health is at risk. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- I’m working part‑time. Will I lose Medicaid? Not if you qualify for Medicaid Works. Entry limit is up to 138% FPL in 2025, and resources saved in certain accounts don’t count. Ask your worker to evaluate you under Medicaid Works specifically. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
- Can I ride to the pharmacy or physical therapy? Yes—Medicaid covers medically necessary transportation to covered services. Call your plan or Modivcare and have your appointment info ready; see the DMAS transportation page. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- What if my power company refuses a medical delay? Re‑notify the utility that a serious medical condition exists, file or resend the certification, and cite 20VAC5‑330‑40. Then escalate with the SCC and contact legal aid. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- How much is SSI in 2025? The federal rate is 967/monthforasingleperson,967/month for a single person, 1,450/month for a couple. States may add supplements in limited settings; Virginia’s general supplement is limited. Check your award letter for exact amounts. See SSA’s 2025 SSI table. (ssa.gov)
- Can I save money without losing SSI/Medicaid? Yes—use ABLEnow for disability expenses; Virginia gives up to a $2,000 state tax deduction per contributor. Ask a benefits planner if you also have a special needs trust. (ablenow.com)
- Who can help me appeal a Medicaid denial fast? File on the DMAS Appeals portal, then contact dLCV or local legal aid for representation. Keep your deadlines. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Is there respite I can use if I’m the caregiver to a disabled child or parent? Yes, the Virginia Lifespan Respite Voucher reimburses up to $595/family through June 30, 2026, while funds last. (virginianavigator.org)
- Where can I search accessible rentals? Try VirginiaHousingSearch.com; ask properties about ADA features and request reasonable accommodations in writing. (virginiahousingsearch.com)
- What number do I keep by the phone for quick statewide help? Dial 2‑1‑1 Virginia anytime, or text CONNECT to 247211 for referrals in your county. (vec.virginia.gov)
Spanish Summary (resumen en español)
Este resumen fue traducido con herramientas de IA. Verifique siempre con las oficinas oficiales.
- Atención médica por discapacidad: Solicite Medicaid por discapacidad o “Medicaid Works” en Cover Virginia 1‑833‑5CALLVA (TTY 1‑888‑221‑1590). Si necesita ayuda en casa, pida una evaluación para el waiver CCC Plus (no tiene lista de espera). (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
- Transporte: Reserve NEMT (No‑Emergencia) por DMAS/Modivcare 1‑866‑386‑8331. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Protección de servicios públicos: Entregue el formulario de condición médica seria a su compañía (por ejemplo, Dominion). La ley estatal exige demoras en el corte cuando se certifica la condición. (dominionenergy.com)
- Dinero y tecnología de apoyo: Ahorre con ABLEnow (límite anual 2025: $19,000; deducción estatal de VA). Pruebe y obtenga equipos por VATS y préstamos con ATLFA. (ablenow.com)
- Ayuda inmediata: Llame a 2‑1‑1 Virginia para referencias locales de renta, alimentos y servicios de discapacidad; para apelaciones de Medicaid use DMAS Appeals. (vec.virginia.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
We used official sources, including:
- Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) and Cover Virginia. (dmas.virginia.gov)
- Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS), VATS, and ATLFA. (dars.virginia.gov)
- Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) regulations and Dominion Energy customer medical protections. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Social Security Administration (2025 SSI/SGA amounts) and Ticket to Work/WIPA. (ssa.gov)
- Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) SNAP standards and DCSE. (dss.virginia.gov)
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
This guide follows our Editorial Standards, relies only on official sources, and is regularly updated and monitored. It’s not legal advice, not affiliated with any government agency, and individual outcomes vary. Please email info@asinglemother.org with corrections; we respond within 72 hours.
What to Do Next (Quick Steps)
- Save these: Cover Virginia, DMAS Transportation, dLCV, 2‑1‑1 Virginia. Set calendar reminders for renewals. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
- Call your doctors: Ask for letters that describe your functional limits (not just diagnoses) for Medicaid, paratransit, and utility protections.
- Track everything: Keep a one‑page log with dates, names, and confirmation numbers. Upload documents the same day. It saves weeks.
🏛️More Virginia Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Virginia
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
