People with epilepsy in Alabama can access federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state Medicaid waivers and support programs. Eligibility depends on medical severity, income, and work history. This guide covers how to apply, what benefits are available, and how to manage your case.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with epilepsy, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means your epilepsy must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The SSA reviews medical records, seizure frequency, and how seizures affect daily life. If you meet these criteria, you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), depending on your work history and financial need. For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals ($2,700 if blind) [6].
Children with epilepsy may also qualify for SSI if their condition meets SSA criteria and their family’s income is low enough [5].
In Alabama, people with epilepsy may qualify for Medicaid through the Elderly and Disabled (E&D) Waiver or other home and community-based waiver programs. To qualify, you must meet the nursing facility level of care and have income below $2,901 per month and resources below $2,000 as of the first day of each month [2]. Some people with epilepsy may also qualify for Medicaid if they receive SSI benefits, as SSI eligibility often leads to Medicaid coverage in Alabama [3].
Alabama also has local Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) that can help people with epilepsy apply for benefits and connect with support services [7]. State-specific eligibility may vary based on the type of waiver or program, so it’s important to check with the Alabama Medicaid Agency or ADRC for the most current requirements.
People with epilepsy in Alabama can open an ABLE account to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. ABLE accounts let you save up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit) and the first $100,000 is not counted as a resource for SSI. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to apply at ssa.gov/programs/able [8].
If your income, work, or health changes, you must report it to the SSA and Medicaid to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to benefit reductions or repayment. Use the SSA’s online portal or call your local office to report changes. For more details, see our guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes [8].
Alabama’s Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) offer free help with applications, counseling, and connecting to services. Call or visit your local ADRC for support.
Yes, epilepsy can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it meets the SSA’s disability criteria. You must show that your seizures are severe enough to prevent you from working and are expected to last at least 12 months. Medical records are key to proving your case.
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or at your local Social Security office. You’ll need medical records and information about your work history and income. ADRCs can help you with the process.
Alabama offers Medicaid through the Elderly and Disabled (E&D) Waiver and other home and community-based waivers. These programs help people with epilepsy get care at home and avoid nursing homes.
For 2025, the SSI SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals ($2,700 if blind). For Medicaid (E&D Waiver), income must be below $2,901/month and resources below $2,000.
Yes, children with epilepsy may qualify for SSI or Medicaid if their condition meets SSA criteria and their family’s income is low enough. The state may make immediate payments for some severe conditions.
Work incentives let people with epilepsy try working without losing benefits right away. These include the Ticket to Work program and special rules for reporting earnings.
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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Report any changes in income, work, or health to the SSA and Medicaid. Overpayments can happen if you don’t report changes, so it’s important to stay up to date.
An ABLE account lets people with epilepsy save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit).
Alabama’s Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) offer free help with applications, counseling, and connecting to services. You can also get help from disability advocates or legal aid groups.
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. ADRCs and legal aid groups can help you with the appeals process and provide support.
