If you have rheumatoid arthritis in Arizona, you may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI), state health coverage (AHCCCS), and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and how to keep more money while working.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with rheumatoid arthritis, your condition must prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death. SSDI requires work credits based on your employment history. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs use the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability, which includes severe limitations in daily activities and work ability. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals (higher for blind) — earning above this may affect your benefits[1][5].
In Arizona, people with rheumatoid arthritis may qualify for AHCCCS (Arizona’s Medicaid program) if they are determined disabled by the Disability Determination Services Administration (DDSA) or receive Social Security disability benefits. The gross monthly income limit for AHCCCS in 2025 is $1,305 for a single person and $1,763 for a couple. If your income is above these limits, you may still qualify for other categories. AHCCCS covers doctor visits, prescriptions, and more, with no monthly premiums for eligible people with disabilities[2].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Arizona, you can open an ABLE account through the federal ABLE program. Contributions are tax-free, and funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like medical care, education, and housing[3].
| Program | 2025 Gross Monthly Income Limit (Single) | |---------|----------------------------------------| | AHCCCS | $1,305 | | SSI | $943 (federal, may be higher with state supplement) | | SSDI SGA | $1,620 (non-blind), $2,700 (blind) |
If your income is above these limits, you may still qualify for some benefits or work incentives[2][5].
You must report changes in income, work, or health to Social Security and AHCCCS. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. If you get an overpayment, contact the agency right away to set up a repayment plan. Use the Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide for step-by-step help[4].
Arizona’s Work Incentive Consultant and Ability360’s Benefits 2 Work program offer free counseling on work incentives and benefit planning. Call 1-866-304-WORK (9675) or 602-443-0720 for help.
Yes, if your rheumatoid arthritis prevents you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must meet Social Security’s medical and financial criteria[1][5].
Apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone, or at a local office. If approved, you may automatically qualify for AHCCCS. If not, apply for AHCCCS separately[2].
The gross monthly income limit for AHCCCS in 2025 is $1,305 for a single person and $1,763 for a couple. If your income is above these limits, you may still qualify for other categories[2].
Yes, Social Security offers work incentives that let you keep benefits while earning income. You can earn up to the SGA limit ($1,620/month in 2025) without losing SSDI. SSI recipients may earn more and still get some benefits[1][5].
People with rheumatoid arthritis may qualify for AHCCCS (Medicaid), which covers doctor visits, prescriptions, and therapy. SSDI recipients may also qualify for Medicare after 24 months[2].
Contact Arizona’s Work Incentive Consultant at 1-866-304-WORK (9675) or Ability360’s Benefits 2 Work program at 602-443-0720. They offer free counseling on work incentives and benefit planning[3].
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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An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can open an ABLE account through the federal ABLE program, which is available to Arizona residents[3].
Yes, you must report changes in income, work, or health to Social Security and AHCCCS. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties[4].
Yes, Arizona offers Medicaid waivers (HCBS) for people who need extra support to live at home. These waivers cover services like personal care, therapy, and home modifications[2].
If your benefits are stopped, you have the right to appeal. Contact Social Security or AHCCCS for information on the appeals process. You may also be able to get back on benefits if you need to without re-applying[3].
