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Arkansas • Chronic Illness
People with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Arkansas may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI, plus state Medicaid programs. Eligibility depends on medical severity, work history, and income. This guide explains how to apply, what benefits are available, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Arkansas, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a list of impairments, but even if your condition is not listed, you may qualify if it is equally severe. For SSDI, you need enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years). For SSI, your income and resources must be below set limits. In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) and may disqualify you from benefits[1].
In Arkansas, eligibility for disability benefits is based on federal rules, but state agencies help with Medicaid and other support programs. You must be a resident of Arkansas and meet federal medical and financial criteria. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome must be documented by a doctor and shown to severely limit your ability to work. Arkansas also offers Medicaid for people with disabilities who meet income and resource limits. Some state programs, like ARChoices, provide home and community-based services for adults with physical disabilities[2]. Workers with disabilities may qualify for full Medicaid coverage even if employed[3].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Arkansas residents can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to apply[7].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly benefit is $967 for individuals and $1,450 for couples. Income and resources must be below set limits. For SSDI, there are no income limits, but earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) may affect eligibility[8].
If your income or health changes, you must report it to the SSA and Arkansas Department of Human Services. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits. Learn how to avoid overpayments and report changes[9].
Contact your local Social Security office or Arkansas Department of Human Services for help with your application. Disability advocates and attorneys can also assist with appeals.
Yes, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it severely limits your ability to work and is expected to last at least 12 months. You must provide medical documentation and meet federal eligibility rules[1].
The maximum SSDI benefit in Arkansas in 2025 is $4,018 per month. Most people receive less, with an average of $1,580 per month[2].
The maximum SSI benefit in Arkansas in 2025 is $967 per month for individuals and $1,450 for couples[2].
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need medical records and work history[4].
Arkansas offers Medicaid, ARChoices for home and community-based services, and Medicaid for workers with disabilities. These programs help with health care and support services[6].
Yes, but there are limits. Earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) may affect your benefits. Arkansas also offers work incentives and Medicaid for employed individuals with disabilities[3].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and requirements.
ARChoices is a Medicaid waiver program that provides home and community-based services for adults with physical disabilities, including those with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. It helps people live independently instead of in institutions[6].
Report any changes in income, work, or health to the SSA and Arkansas Department of Human Services. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits[9].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Arkansas residents can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses[7].
If your application is denied, you can appeal within 60 days of the decision. You may want to seek help from a disability attorney or advocate[4].
