If you have a spinal cord injury in Arizona, you may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSDI/SSI), Arizona Medicaid (AHCCCS), work incentives, and other supports. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what to expect in 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 20/40 work credit rule (usually, you need 20 credits in the last 10 years)[^1]. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with low income and resources, regardless of work history[^1]. Both programs require that your disability meets Social Security’s definition, which includes spinal cord injuries that severely limit your ability to work[^1].
In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above this limit may affect your SSDI eligibility[^2].
In Arizona, you may qualify for AHCCCS (Medicaid) if you are a 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[^3]. You must also be determined disabled by the Disability Determination Services Administration (DDSA) or receive Social Security disability benefits[^3].
Arizona also offers work incentives, such as the Ticket to Work program and Section 301, which lets you keep SSDI benefits while in approved vocational rehab programs[^4]. These programs help you work without losing health coverage or payments[^4].
ABLE accounts let you save up to $18,000 per year (2025) for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Arizona offers its own ABLE program, which may have state tax benefits[^6].
| Program | 2025 Income Limit (Single) | |---------|---------------------------| | SSI | $943/month | | AHCCCS (Medicaid) | $1,305/month | | SSDI SGA Limit | $1,620/month |
Note: SSI limits are federal; AHCCCS limits are state-specific. SSDI SGA is the amount you can earn before benefits may be affected[^2][3].
You must report changes in income, work, or health to Social Security and AHCCCS. Failing to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. Report changes online, by phone, or in person[^5].
Contact a Work Incentive Consultant for free, expert help with benefits and work planning. Call 1-866-304-WORK (9675) or visit your local Social Security office[^3].
Arizona offers work incentives like the Ticket to Work program and Section 301. These let you keep SSDI benefits while you try to work or go to school[^4].
Yes, if you meet both programs’ rules. SSDI is based on work history, SSI on low income and resources. Many people with spinal cord injuries qualify for both if their income is low enough[^1].
In 2025, you can earn up to $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind) without losing SSDI. Earning more may affect your benefits, but work incentives can help you keep payments while you try to work[^2].
Yes, AHCCCS covers most medical care for people with disabilities, including spinal cord injury. You must meet income and disability rules to qualify[^3].
Ticket to Work is a free Social Security program that helps people with disabilities find jobs and keep benefits. It offers job training, counseling, and support services[^4].
Yes, ABLE accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. Arizona has its own ABLE program with possible state tax benefits[^6].
Yes, you must report changes to Social Security and AHCCCS. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and penalties. Report changes online, by phone, or in person[^5].
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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You can appeal the decision. Ask for help from a Work Incentive Consultant or legal aid. You may also qualify for SSI or AHCCCS even if SSDI is denied[^4].
Yes, you can work and keep SSDI for a trial period. After that, work incentives like Section 301 let you keep benefits while in approved rehab programs[^4].
Apply online at HealthCare.gov or at your local DES office. You will need proof of income, disability, and residency[^3].
SSDI is based on work history and Social Security taxes paid. SSI is for people with low income and resources, regardless of work history. Both can help with spinal cord injury in Arizona[^1].
