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Arkansas • Chronic Illness
If you have severe asthma that prevents you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for federal disability benefits in Arkansas. State programs can also help with healthcare and daily needs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Arkansas, your asthma must be severe enough to prevent you from doing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for at least 12 months or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a "Listing of Impairments" to decide if a condition is severe. Even if asthma isn't listed, you may still qualify if it limits your ability to work.
For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years). For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your income and resources must be below SSA limits. In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered SGA and may disqualify you[2][3][4].
In Arkansas, people with severe asthma may qualify for Medicaid, especially if they are approved for SSI or SSDI. The Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) runs programs for disabled individuals, including Medicaid for those who work but have disabilities. The Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD) also offers support for people with chronic illnesses like asthma, helping with independence and community integration[5][6].
State-specific eligibility for Medicaid and other programs depends on income, resources, and disability status. You may need to show proof of your asthma diagnosis and how it limits your daily activities. Arkansas does not have a separate state disability program, so federal rules apply for SSDI and SSI[5][6].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. Arkansas residents can open an ABLE account to pay for qualified expenses like medical care, education, and housing. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how they work[internal_link: ABLE Accounts].
In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) and may disqualify you from SSDI or SSI. SSI also has strict income and resource limits. Use the SSI Income Estimator to see if you qualify[internal_link: SSI Income Estimator].
If your condition or income changes, report it to SSA and Arkansas DHS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to repayment demands or loss of benefits. Learn how to report changes and avoid overpayments[internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Contact the Arkansas Department of Human Services or a disability advocate for help with your application. They can guide you through the process and connect you with resources.
Yes, if your asthma is severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months. You must meet SSA’s medical and financial criteria for SSDI or SSI. State programs like Medicaid may also help[2][3][4].
You need medical records showing your asthma diagnosis, treatment history, and how it limits your ability to work. Doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment plans are important[2][3].
In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered Substantial Gainful Activity and may disqualify you from SSDI or SSI. SSI has additional income limits[2][3][4].
Arkansas offers Medicaid for people with disabilities, including those with asthma. The Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities and DHS provide support services and advocacy[5][6].
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. Gather medical records and work history. If approved, apply for Arkansas Medicaid and other state programs[5][6].
You can work, but your monthly earnings must be below $1,620 ($2,700 if blind) in 2025. Some work incentives let you test your ability to work without losing benefits[3][4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
You can appeal the decision. Gather more medical evidence and consider getting help from a disability attorney or advocate. Arkansas has resources to help with appeals[2][3].
The process can take several months to over a year. It depends on how quickly SSA gets your medical records and reviews your case. You may get benefits faster if your condition is severe[2][3].
No, but your monthly earnings must be below $1,620 ($2,700 if blind) in 2025. You can work part-time or in a job that doesn’t count as Substantial Gainful Activity[2][3][4].
Arkansas offers Medicaid, support services, and advocacy through DHS and GCDD. You may also qualify for grants or assistance programs for people with disabilities[5][6][7].
