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Alabama • Chronic Illness
People in Alabama with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state Medicaid waivers and support programs. Eligibility depends on medical evidence, income, and work history. This guide explains how to apply and what benefits are available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months, and meet the SSA's work credit requirements (usually 20 credits in the last 10 years)[6]. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, be disabled, and meet SSA's medical criteria[6].
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is not listed as a specific disability, but you may qualify if your symptoms are severe enough to prevent you from working and meet SSA's definition of disability[6]. Medical evidence is key for approval.
In Alabama, people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid through the Elderly and Disabled (E&D) Waiver if they meet financial and medical criteria[2]. The income limit is $2,901 per month and the resource limit is $2,000 as of the first day of each month[2]. You must also meet the nursing facility level of care requirement.
Alabama also offers other Medicaid waiver programs for people with disabilities, including SAIL, ID, TA, and LAH[2]. These programs provide home and community-based services to help people live independently[2].
To qualify for these programs, you must first apply for SSI or disability benefits through the Social Security Administration to determine if you meet disability requirements[2].
ABLE Accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities. In Alabama, you can open an ABLE account to save for qualified disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits[7].
It's important to report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back[7]. Use the SSI Income Estimator to check how changes affect your benefits[7].
Contact the Alabama Department of Mental Health Call Center at 1-800-361-4491 for help with Medicaid waivers. Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) offer free information and counseling[8].
Yes, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can qualify for SSI and SSDI if it meets SSA's definition of disability. You must provide medical evidence showing your symptoms prevent you from working for at least 12 months[6].
In 2025, the SSI federal benefit rate is $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples. For the E&D Waiver, the income limit is $2,901/month and the resource limit is $2,000 as of the first day of each month[2][5].
Contact the Alabama Department of Mental Health Call Center at 1-800-361-4491 to apply for Medicaid waivers. You must first apply for SSI or disability benefits through the Social Security Administration[2].
Medicaid waivers in Alabama provide home and community-based services such as case management, homemaker services, personal care, respite care, adult day health, and more[2].
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits, but earnings above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit may affect your benefits. In 2025, the SGA limit is expected to increase slightly[1].
If your disability application is denied, you can appeal the decision. Consider working with a disability advocate or attorney for help with the appeals process[4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Children with disabilities may qualify for SSI and Medicaid. The state agency may make immediate SSI payments for certain conditions while the application is being processed[5].
The state agency may take 6 to 8 months to decide if your child’s condition meets the criteria for disability. For adults, processing times vary by office and case complexity[5].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs provide monthly payments for people with disabilities[6].
Yes, Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) provide free information, counseling, and help with applications. You can also work with a disability advocate or attorney[8].
