If you have Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Alabama, you may qualify for federal disability programs (SSI/SSDI), state Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get local help for ALS-specific needs.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with ALS, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. For SSDI, you generally need 40 work credits, 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began[6]. SSI is based on financial need and disability; no work history is required. ALS is on the Compassionate Allowances list, so claims may be processed faster. You can earn up to a certain amount each month (Substantial Gainful Activity, or SGA) and still qualify—for 2025, this is expected to be slightly higher than $1,470/month for non-blind individuals[1]. Children with disabilities may qualify for SSI if family income and resources are low[5].
Alabama Medicaid has programs for people with disabilities who need nursing home level of care, including the Elderly and Disabled (E&D) Waiver. To qualify, your income must be under $2,901/month and resources under $2,000 as of the first of the month[2]. You must also need a nursing facility level of care. Some people with ALS may qualify for Medicaid automatically if they get SSI, but others may need to apply separately. Alabama does not have a state supplemental payment for SSI, but Medicaid waivers can help cover home and community services. For the most accurate, personalized eligibility assessment, contact your local Alabama Department of Senior Services Aging and Disability Resource Center[7].
Start by applying for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office[4]. If you need help with daily activities, ask about Alabama Medicaid waivers by calling the Alabama Department of Mental Health at 1-800-361-4491[2]. Gather your medical records, work history, and financial information before you apply.
The main federal programs for people with ALS are SSDI and SSI. SSDI provides monthly payments if you have a sufficient work history and paid Social Security taxes[6]. SSI provides cash assistance based on financial need for those with limited income and resources. Both programs include Medicare or Medicaid health coverage after a waiting period. The Social Security Administration’s Compassionate Allowances program speeds up decisions for ALS claims. Children with disabilities may be eligible for SSI if family income is low[5].
In Alabama, Medicaid offers several programs for people with disabilities. The Elderly and Disabled (E&D) Waiver helps those who qualify for nursing home care but want to live at home with services like personal care, homemaker, respite, and skilled nursing[2][3]. There is no state supplement to SSI, but Medicaid can cover additional services. Alabama also has ABLE accounts for saving without losing benefits. For help understanding options, contact the Alabama Department of Senior Services Aging and Disability Resource Center (One Door Alabama), which provides free information and referrals to local programs[7]. If you are in a nursing facility, you may qualify for Institutional Medicaid. Always check with Medicaid for the latest eligibility rules and covered services.
Alabama offers ABLE accounts, which let people with disabilities save money without affecting eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other means-tested benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, like housing, education, and health care. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one on the Alabama State Treasury’s website.
For SSI in 2025, income and resource limits apply (check ssa.gov for the latest figures). For Alabama’s Elderly and Disabled (E&D) Medicaid Waiver, the income limit is $2,901/month and the resource limit is $2,000 as of the first of each month[2]. Income limits for children with disabilities on SSI are based on family income[5].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security and Medicaid to avoid overpayments, which you might have to pay back. Keep records of all changes and correspondence. For more on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes, see our internal guide.
ALS is on the Social Security Administration’s Compassionate Allowances list, which means your disability claim may be processed much faster than standard applications.
Alabama’s Aging and Disability Resource Centers (One Door Alabama) provide free, local help to navigate benefits, apply for programs, and connect with services in your community[7].
Yes, if your ALS prevents work, you can apply for SSDI (if you have enough work credits) or SSI (if you have limited income and resources). ALS is on the Compassionate Allowances list, so claims are usually processed faster.
For the Elderly and Disabled Waiver, the income limit is $2,901 per month and the resource limit is $2,000 as of the first of each month. You must also need a nursing facility level of care[2].
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. Gather medical records and work history. For Medicaid waivers, call the Alabama Department of Mental Health for an application[2][4].
Yes, Alabama’s Elderly and Disabled (E&D) Waiver provides services like personal care, respite, and skilled nursing in your home if you meet nursing facility level of care[2][3].
Yes, children with disabilities and low family income may qualify for SSI and Medicaid. Some conditions, like cerebral palsy or severe intellectual disability, may qualify for immediate payments while the application is processed[5].
You can appeal the decision. Consider contacting a disability advocate or attorney for help with your appeal. Respond quickly to any requests for more information.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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Yes, ABLE accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Check with the Alabama State Treasury for details.
ALS claims may be processed faster under Compassionate Allowances, but it can still take several months. Check your application status online or by phone.
Covered services include case management, personal care, respite, skilled nursing, adult day health, home-delivered meals, and more. Services depend on your care plan[2].
Contact the Alabama Department of Senior Services Aging and Disability Resource Center (One Door Alabama) for free information and referrals to local programs[7].
