Disability Resources in Virginia

Last updated September 25, 2026

Virginia offers a range of federal and state-administered programs to support people living with physical, intellectual, developmental, and behavioral health disabilities. Whether you need help with health coverage, daily living supports, employment, housing, or income, there are real pathways to assistance — and connecting with the right starting point makes all the difference.

The single fastest way to find disability-related services near you is to call or text 2-1-1 (Virginia's statewide helpline, available 24/7) or visit 211virginia.org. Trained specialists can match you with local programs covering everything from personal care to transportation to emergency financial aid. Many services have waitlists, so reaching out early is important.

For Virginians who are also veterans, older adults, or experiencing a mental health crisis, dedicated resources exist alongside the general disability system. The programs below are a strong starting point, but your local Department of Social Services (DSS) office and the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) can help you navigate options specific to your county or city.

Key programs in Virginia

Virginia Medicaid & Medicaid Waivers (DMAS)

Covers health care costs and, through Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waivers, funds personal care, respite, assistive technology, and supported living for people with disabilities who meet income and functional criteria. Key waivers include the Community Living waiver and the Building Independence waiver for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

How to access: Apply for Medicaid through CommonHelp at commonhelp.virginia.gov or at your local Department of Social Services office. Waiver slots are managed by the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) and the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS); ask your caseworker about the waiver waitlist and the DD Waitlist specifically if your disability is developmental.

Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) – Vocational Rehabilitation

Helps Virginians with disabilities prepare for, find, and keep employment. Services can include vocational assessment, job training, education funding, assistive technology, and job placement support.

How to access: Apply online at dars.virginia.gov or call DARS at 1-800-552-5019 (voice/TTY). Walk-in or scheduled appointments are available at regional DARS offices throughout the state. There is no cost to apply, though some services are means-tested.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) & Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Federal income programs for people with qualifying disabilities. SSDI is based on work history; SSI is needs-based and does not require prior work. Both programs are administered nationally by the Social Security Administration but processed through Virginia field offices.

How to access: Apply online at ssa.gov/disability, call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), or visit your nearest Social Security office. Applications can take months; legal aid organizations and disability advocates in Virginia can help if you are denied.

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) in Virginia

Monthly food benefits loaded onto an EBT card. People receiving SSI automatically qualify in many cases. Virginians with disabilities who cannot prepare their own meals may also qualify for restaurant meal program options in participating areas.

How to access: Apply through CommonHelp at commonhelp.virginia.gov or at your local Department of Social Services office. You can also call 2-1-1 for help with the application process.

HUD Housing Assistance & Continuum of Care (CoC) Programs

Federal rental assistance programs — including Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers with non-elderly disabled (NED) preferences, and Continuum of Care funded supportive housing — help low-income Virginians with disabilities afford stable housing. The Virginia Housing Development Authority (VHDA) also administers state-level affordable housing resources.

How to access: Contact your local Public Housing Authority (PHA) to apply for Housing Choice Vouchers — waitlists are common and often long. To find CoC-funded disability housing, call 2-1-1 or contact your regional Community Services Board (CSB), which coordinates behavioral health and developmental disability housing supports in every Virginia locality.

Disability Resources resources for Virginia

Administration for Community Living (ACL)

Nationwide

Federal programs and resources supporting people with disabilities and older adults.

Visit

Social Security Disability (SSA)

Nationwide

Apply for and manage Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and SSI benefits.

1-800-772-1213
Visit

The Arc

Nationwide

Advocacy and local chapter services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Visit
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