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Arkansas • Chronic Illness
If you have fibromyalgia in Arkansas, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid. Eligibility depends on your medical condition, income, and work history. 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 doing substantial work for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two main programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. You generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history.
Both programs require that your condition is severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA). In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered SGA and may disqualify you. Even if your condition is not on the SSA's official list, you may still qualify if you can prove it severely limits your ability to work. Fibromyalgia is not specifically listed, but many people with fibromyalgia have been approved if they can show their symptoms prevent them from working.
In Arkansas, people with fibromyalgia may qualify for additional state programs if they meet federal eligibility. The Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) offers Medicaid to people with disabilities who meet income and asset limits. Medicaid can help cover healthcare costs, including doctor visits, medications, and therapy. Arkansas also has a Workers with Disabilities Medicaid program for people who are employed but still need healthcare coverage.
Other state services include vocational rehabilitation, which can help you find work or training, and support for independent living. To qualify for state programs, you usually need to be approved for federal disability benefits first. Some programs may have additional requirements, such as proof of residency or participation in work activities. State-specific eligibility can change, so it's important to check with DHS or your local county office for the most current information.
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. In Arkansas, you can open an ABLE account to pay for qualified disability expenses. Contributions are limited, and there are tax benefits. For more information, visit the ABLE National Resource Center or your state’s ABLE program.
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly benefit is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a couple. To qualify, your income and resources must be below certain limits. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered substantial gainful activity and may affect your benefits. State programs may have different income limits, so check with the Arkansas Department of Human Services for details.
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you may have to pay back the overpayment. It's important to report any changes in your income, work status, or living situation to the SSA and DHS. Failure to report changes can result in penalties or loss of benefits. For more information, see the SSA’s guide on reporting changes and avoiding overpayments.
If you need help with your application, contact your local Social Security office or the Arkansas Department of Human Services. Disability advocates and attorneys can also assist you with the process.
Yes, fibromyalgia can qualify for disability benefits in Arkansas if it severely limits your ability to work for at least 12 months. You must provide medical evidence showing your symptoms prevent you from doing substantial work. Even if fibromyalgia is not on the SSA's official list, you may still qualify if you can prove your condition is equally severe.
In 2025, the maximum monthly SSI benefit is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a couple. To qualify, your income and resources must be below certain limits set by the SSA. State programs may have different limits, so check with the Arkansas Department of Human Services for details.
You can apply for disability benefits online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need to provide medical records, work history, and other documents. State programs like Medicaid can be applied for through the Arkansas Department of Human Services.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require that your condition prevents you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. For more details, see our guide on SSI vs SSDI.
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits, but there are limits. In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered substantial gainful activity and may affect your benefits. Work incentives programs can help you keep benefits while you try to work.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.
People with fibromyalgia in Arkansas may qualify for Medicaid, which covers doctor visits, medications, and therapy. There is also a Workers with Disabilities Medicaid program for people who are employed. Medicare is available to some SSDI recipients after a 24-month waiting period.
The approval process can take several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of your case and the backlog at the SSA. You may be asked to provide additional medical evidence or attend a hearing. It's important to follow up on your application and respond to requests promptly.
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. The appeals process includes several levels, such as reconsideration, a hearing, and review by the Appeals Council. You may want to get help from a disability advocate or attorney to improve your chances of success.
There are some grants and assistance programs for people with disabilities in Arkansas, but they are limited. Check with local nonprofits, state agencies, and national organizations for available resources. Some programs may help with medical expenses, home modifications, or assistive devices.
Family members of a disabled individual may be eligible for dependent benefits under SSDI. This includes spouses and children. For more information, contact the SSA or a disability advocate.
