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Alabama • Rare/Genetic
People with cystic fibrosis in Alabama may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state Medicaid waivers and support programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key changes for 2025.
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, blind, or age 65+, and meet the SSA's medical criteria [6].
Cystic fibrosis is listed in the SSA's Blue Book under Section 3.04, which covers chronic respiratory disorders. If your condition meets the criteria, you may qualify for benefits without further review. If not, the SSA will review your medical records to see if your condition is equally severe [6].
In 2025, the SSI federal payment is $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple. The SSDI average payment is higher and depends on your work history [1].
In Alabama, people with cystic fibrosis may qualify for Medicaid through the Elderly and Disabled (E&D) Waiver Program if they meet financial and medical criteria. The income limit is $2,901 per month, and the resource limit is $2,000 as of the first day of each month. You must also meet the nursing facility level of care requirement [2].
Alabama also offers other Medicaid waiver programs for people with disabilities, such as SAIL, ID, TA, and LAH. These programs provide home and community-based services to help you live independently [2].
If you qualify for SSI, you may automatically qualify for Medicaid in Alabama. If you do not qualify for SSI, you may still qualify for Medicaid based on your disability and income [3].
Children with cystic fibrosis may qualify for SSI and Medicaid if they meet the SSA's medical criteria and Alabama's financial requirements [5].
ABLE accounts allow people with a disability to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Alabama, you can open an ABLE account through the state's ABLE program. The account can be used for disability-related expenses, such as medical care, education, housing, and transportation [7].
It is important to report any changes in your condition, income, or living situation to the SSA and Alabama Medicaid Agency. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person [7].
Yes, cystic fibrosis is considered a disability by the SSA. If your condition meets the SSA's criteria, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI in Alabama. You must also meet the SSA's work credit and income requirements [6].
Alabama offers Medicaid waiver programs for people with cystic fibrosis, including the Elderly and Disabled (E&D) Waiver, SAIL, ID, TA, and LAH programs. These programs provide home and community-based services to help you live independently [2].
In 2025, the SSI federal payment is $943/month for an individual. The SSDI SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind beneficiaries. Medicaid income limits vary by program [1][2].
Yes, children with cystic fibrosis may qualify for SSI and Medicaid if they meet the SSA's medical criteria and Alabama's financial requirements. The state agency may make immediate SSI payments for certain conditions [5].
Gather your medical records and proof of income, apply for SSI or SSDI through the SSA, and if approved, you may be referred to Alabama Medicaid for additional benefits. For Medicaid waivers, contact the Alabama Medicaid Agency or your local Area Agency on Aging and Disability [7].
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.
Report any changes in your condition, income, or living situation to the SSA and Alabama Medicaid Agency. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person to avoid overpayments [7].
Alabama Medicaid waiver programs provide services such as case management, homemaker services, personal care, respite care, adult day health, adult companion services, home delivered meals, medical supplies, and skilled nursing [2].
Yes, you can work while receiving SSI or SSDI, but you must not earn more than the SGA limit. The SSA offers work incentives to help you keep your benefits while you work [1].
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with a disability. In Alabama, you can use an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits [7].
The state agency may take 6 to 8 months to decide if your condition meets the SSA's criteria for disability. For some conditions, immediate SSI payments may be made for up to 6 months while the decision is pending [5].
