West Virginia Disability Resources
If you just got hurt on the job, received a diagnosis, or need to understand what West Virginia offers for people with disabilities, this page covers the major programs and how to access them.
Workers' Compensation
West Virginia workers' compensation transitioned to a private insurance system. The West Virginia Insurance Commissioner oversees the program. Claims are handled through private insurers and BrickStreet Mutual (now Encova Insurance).
What to do if you're hurt at work:- Report the injury to your employer immediately.
- Seek medical treatment.
- File a claim with your employer's insurance carrier.
- Notify your employer as soon as possible.
- File a formal claim within 6 months (or up to 2 years with good cause).
- Phone: 304-558-3386 / 1-888-879-9842
- Web: wvinsurance.gov
State Disability Programs
West Virginia does not have a state disability insurance program. Apply through federal SSDI/SSI.
Medicaid
West Virginia Medicaid is administered by the Bureau for Medical Services.
How to apply:- Online at dhhr.wv.gov
- By phone: 1-877-716-1212
Vocational Rehabilitation
The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services helps people with disabilities find employment.
Contact:- Phone: 304-356-2060 / 1-800-642-8207
- Web: wvdrs.org
Disability Rights
West Virginia Advocates, Inc. is the state's federally designated Protection and Advocacy organization. Contact:- Phone: 304-346-0847 / 1-800-950-5250
- Web: wvadvocates.org
Veterans Services
The West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance provides state-level assistance.
Contact:- Phone: 304-558-3661
- Web: veterans.wv.gov
State Employment Protections
West Virginia has the West Virginia Human Rights Act, which prohibits disability discrimination for employers with 12 or more employees.
Where to file a complaint:- West Virginia Human Rights Commission: 304-558-2616 / 1-888-676-5546
- Web: hrc.wv.gov
Key Contacts
| Agency | Phone | Website | |--------|-------|---------| | Insurance Commissioner (Workers' Comp) | 1-888-879-9842 | wvinsurance.gov | | Medicaid | 1-877-716-1212 | dhhr.wv.gov | | Division of Rehabilitation Services | 1-800-642-8207 | wvdrs.org | | WV Advocates | 1-800-950-5250 | wvadvocates.org | | Human Rights Commission | 1-888-676-5546 | hrc.wv.gov | | Social Security Administration | 1-800-772-1213 | ssa.gov |