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Arkansas • Chronic Illness
If you have heart disease in Arkansas, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI, plus state programs for health care and support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Arkansas, your heart disease 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 that includes heart conditions like chronic heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and others. If your condition is not listed, you may still qualify if you can prove it is equally severe and limits your ability to work. For SSDI, you must have enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years). For 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 from benefits[1][2][4].
In Arkansas, eligibility for disability benefits is based on federal rules, but state agencies handle Medicaid and other support programs. Arkansas Medicaid covers people with disabilities, including heart disease, if they meet income and resource requirements. The ARChoices program provides home and community-based services for adults with physical disabilities. Workers with disabilities who are employed may qualify for full Medicaid coverage through the Workers with Disabilities program. To qualify for these programs, you must be a resident of Arkansas and meet the medical and financial criteria set by the state[5][6].
The two main federal disability programs are Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for those who have worked and paid into Social Security. SSI is for those with limited income and resources. Both programs provide monthly payments and may include Medicare or Medicaid coverage. In 2025, the maximum monthly SSDI benefit is $4,018, and the maximum SSI benefit is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a couple[1].
Arkansas offers several programs for people with disabilities, including heart disease. Medicaid provides health care coverage for eligible individuals. ARChoices offers home and community-based services for adults with physical disabilities. The Workers with Disabilities program provides full Medicaid coverage for employed individuals with disabilities. These programs help cover medical bills, home care, and other support services. Eligibility is based on income, resources, and medical need[5][6].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. Arkansas residents can open an ABLE account to pay for qualified disability expenses like medical care, education, and housing. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one in Arkansas[8].
In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning more than these amounts may affect your eligibility for SSDI or SSI. For SSI, your income and resources must be below SSA limits. Arkansas Medicaid and ARChoices have their own income and resource limits[2][4][5].
It is important to report any changes in your condition, income, or living situation to SSA and DHS. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay. Learn how to avoid overpayments and report changes to keep your benefits[4].
Contact a disability attorney or benefits counselor for personalized help. The Arkansas Department of Human Services and Social Security Administration also offer resources and support.
Chronic heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and other severe heart conditions may qualify if they prevent you from working for 12+ months. If your condition is not listed, you may still qualify if you can prove it is equally severe and limits your ability to work[2][4].
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need medical records and proof of income. If approved, you can also apply for Arkansas Medicaid and ARChoices[1][5][6].
The maximum monthly SSDI benefit in 2025 is $4,018. The actual amount you receive depends on your work history and earnings[1].
The maximum monthly SSI benefit in 2025 is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a couple. The actual amount you receive depends on your income and resources[1].
You can work, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit of $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind). Earning more may affect your eligibility for SSDI or SSI[2][4].
ARChoices is a Medicaid waiver program that provides home and community-based services for adults with physical disabilities. You can apply through your local DHS office if you meet the medical and financial criteria[5][6].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
This program provides full Medicaid coverage for employed individuals with disabilities in Arkansas. You must meet the medical and financial criteria to qualify[6].
Report any changes in your condition, income, or living situation to SSA and DHS. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay[4].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. Arkansas residents can open an ABLE account to pay for qualified disability expenses[8].
You can get help from a disability attorney, legal aid, or a benefits counselor. The Arkansas Department of Human Services and Social Security Administration also offer resources and support[1][5][6].
