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Alabama • Chronic Illness
If you have asthma in Alabama, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, plus Medicaid and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and state-specific resources.
To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes, and have a medical condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you need limited income and resources, and a qualifying disability. Both programs use the same medical rules to decide if your asthma is disabling. In 2025, you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) and still qualify for benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) sets these rules for everyone in the U.S. [^1][^2][^3]
In Alabama, the state’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) makes the first medical decision about your disability. If you get SSI, you automatically qualify for Medicaid in Alabama. Alabama does not add extra money to SSI payments. The state works closely with federal programs and offers strong support through vocational rehabilitation and work incentives. If your asthma is severe enough to stop you from working, you may qualify for these programs. [^1][^2][^4]
The main federal programs for people with asthma are Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources. Both programs can help with monthly payments and may lead to Medicare or Medicaid. [^1][^2]
Alabama does not add extra payments to SSI, but SSI recipients automatically get Medicaid. The state works with federal programs to offer work incentives and vocational rehabilitation. Local ADRCs provide free help with applications, counseling, and referrals to other services. Alabama also has the Work Incentives Planning & Assistance (WIPA) program, which offers free benefits counseling for SSDI/SSI recipients. [^1][^6][^7]
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Alabama residents can open an ABLE account to pay for qualified disability expenses. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how they work with SSI/SSDI. [^8]
For SSI in 2025, the income limit is $943 per month for individuals. The resource limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. SSDI has no income or resource limits once approved. [^1]
You must report changes in your health, income, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Learn how to report changes and avoid overpayments. [^1]
Contact your local Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) for free help with applications, counseling, and referrals. Call 1-800-AGE-LINE (1-800-243-5463) or visit your county’s ADRC website.
Alabama’s Work Incentives Planning & Assistance (WIPA) program offers free benefits counseling for SSDI/SSI recipients who want to work. Ask about WIPA when you apply.
Yes, if your asthma is severe and stops you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. The Social Security Administration uses medical records to decide if your asthma is disabling. [^1][^2]
No, Alabama does not add extra payments to SSI. However, SSI recipients automatically get Medicaid in Alabama. [^1]
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office. Local ADRCs can help you with the process. [^1][^6]
The income limit for SSI in 2025 is $943 per month for individuals. The resource limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. [^1]
Yes, if you get SSI in Alabama, you automatically qualify for Medicaid. This helps with medical costs. [^1]
Yes, children with severe asthma may qualify for SSI or family benefits if their condition meets Social Security’s rules. [^4][^5]
Alabama offers the Work Incentives Planning & Assistance (WIPA) program, which provides free counseling and support for SSDI/SSI recipients who want to work. [^7]
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
It can take several months for Alabama’s Disability Determination Services to review your medical records and make a decision. [^1]
Yes, there are work incentives that let you keep benefits while trying to work. In 2025, you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) and still qualify for benefits. [^2][^5]
You can get free help from your local Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) or the Work Incentives Planning & Assistance (WIPA) program. [^6][^7]
