If you have arthritis in Arizona, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI, plus state health coverage and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available in 2025.
To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for arthritis, you must have a medical condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months. SSDI requires work credits based on your job history and Social Security taxes paid. SSI is for people with low income and few resources, regardless of work history. Both programs use strict rules to decide if your arthritis is severe enough to qualify. The Social Security Administration reviews your medical records, work history, and how your condition affects daily life. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for most people with disabilities (or $2,700 if you are blind). If you earn more than this, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI cash benefits. [^1][^5]
In Arizona, you may qualify for AHCCCS (Medicaid) if you have arthritis and meet income and disability requirements. To qualify, you must be an Arizona resident, a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant, have a Social Security number, and meet the income limit. For 2025, the gross monthly income limit is $1,305 for a single person and $1,763 for a couple. You must also be determined disabled by the Disability Determination Services Administration (DDSA) or receive Social Security disability benefits. If your income is above the limit, you may still qualify for other AHCCCS categories. AHCCCS covers doctor visits, prescriptions, therapy, and more for people with arthritis. [^2]
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for disability-related expenses like medical care, education, and housing. Arizona offers ABLE accounts through the state program. Learn more at the ABLE National Resource Center. [^3]
If your income or work status changes, you must report it to Social Security and AHCCCS. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits. Use the SSA online portal or call your local office to report changes. [^3]
Arizona Work Incentive Consultants offer free help to plan work and benefits. Call 1-866-304-WORK (9675) for expert advice.
Yes, arthritis can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it severely limits your ability to work for at least 12 months. You must meet federal and state rules for disability and income. [^5]
In 2025, you can earn up to $1,620 per month and still get SSDI or SSI. If you are blind, the limit is $2,700. AHCCCS has its own income limits. [^5][^2]
Arizona offers AHCCCS (Medicaid) for people with disabilities who meet income and residency rules. AHCCCS covers doctor visits, prescriptions, therapy, and more. [^2]
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. For AHCCCS, apply online at HealthCare.gov or through AHCCCS. [^5][^2]
Yes, work incentives let you keep benefits while working. Programs like Ticket to Work help you earn income without losing health coverage or cash benefits. [^3]
In 2025, SSDI benefits increase by 2.5% due to cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). This helps keep up with rising living costs. [^1]
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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Contact Arizona Work Incentive Consultants at 1-866-304-WORK (9675) for free help. They can help you plan work and benefits. [^3]
Yes, ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Arizona offers ABLE accounts for eligible residents. [^3]
You must report income changes to Social Security and AHCCCS. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits. [^3]
Children with arthritis may qualify for SSI or SSDI if they meet disability and income rules. Benefits may continue into adulthood if the disability started before age 22. [^5]
