Arkansas offers federal and state benefits for people with Intellectual Disability, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, HCBS waivers, and ABLE accounts. Eligibility and application steps vary by program. This guide explains what’s available, how to qualify, and where to get help in Arkansas.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) with an Intellectual Disability, you must have a medically documented condition that severely limits your ability to work for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death[2]. SSDI requires enough work credits; SSI is based on financial need[1][2]. Children with significant disabilities may qualify for SSI based on family income and resources, while adults must meet the adult disability rules. If you can earn more than $1,620/month ($2,700 if blind), you may be disqualified from benefits[2]. The Social Security Administration uses a "Listing of Impairments"—Intellectual Disability is specifically listed for both children and adults[2].
Arkansas follows federal rules for SSI and SSDI, but also has state Medicaid programs for people with disabilities. The ARChoices waiver offers home and community-based services (HCBS) to adults 21–64 with physical or intellectual disabilities, or those over 65 who meet nursing facility level of care[4]. Eligibility depends on income, resources, Arkansas residency, and level of need. Medicaid also has a Workers with Disabilities program if you’re employed but still have low income and a disability[6]. State programs may have different asset and income limits than federal programs, so check both. Arkansas does not have a separate state disability payment, but its Medicaid programs fill gaps for those who qualify.
Start online at ssa.gov for SSI/SSDI—you can apply, check status, and appeal online. For Arkansas Medicaid, apply at access.arkansas.gov or contact your local DHS office. Gather medical records, proof of income, and identification before you start. If you need help, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or Arkansas DHS at 1-855-372-1084. Appeals are possible if you’re denied—don’t give up after the first "no."
For SSI/SSDI:
For Arkansas Medicaid and Waivers:
For both: Keep copies of all forms and correspondence. Consider getting help from a benefits counselor or legal aid if the process becomes overwhelming.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Pays benefits to adults who have worked and paid Social Security taxes long enough, and who are now unable to work due to a severe disability expected to last at least one year or result in death[1][2]. In 2025, the maximum SSDI benefit is $4,018/month[1].
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Provides monthly payments to adults and children with disabilities who have limited income and resources. SSI does not require a work history. In 2025, the maximum federal SSI benefit is $967/month for an individual and $1,450 for a couple[1].
Disabled Adult Child (DAC) Benefits: Adults who became disabled before age 22 may be eligible for benefits based on a parent’s Social Security record, even if they have never worked[5].
Arkansas Medicaid: Offers health coverage to eligible individuals with disabilities, including those with Intellectual Disability[4]. Covered services include doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and more.
ARChoices in Homecare: A Medicaid waiver program providing home and community-based services (HCBS) to adults 21–64 with physical or intellectual disabilities, or those 65+ who meet nursing facility level of care[4]. Services may include personal care, respite, and supported employment.
Workers with Disabilities Medicaid: Provides full Medicaid to employed individuals with disabilities who meet income and asset limits[6]. This program encourages work while maintaining health coverage.
ABLE Accounts: Arkansas residents can open ABLE accounts to save for disability-related expenses without affecting eligibility for SSI and Medicaid. See more at Arkansas ABLE.
Arkansas does not offer a separate state disability payment; Medicaid and waivers are the main state supports.
Arkansas ABLE Accounts let you save up to $17,000/year (2025) without losing SSI or Medicaid. Funds can pay for education, housing, transportation, health, and more. Only the first $100,000 in an ABLE account is exempt from the SSI asset limit. Learn more at Arkansas ABLE.
SSI: Strict income and resource limits apply. In 2025, countable resources must be under $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple. Earned income over $1,620/month (or $2,700 if blind) may disqualify you—check the SSA’s rules each year as limits change[2].
Medicaid: Arkansas has its own income and asset rules, which may be higher than SSI’s. Some programs, like Workers with Disabilities Medicaid, allow higher income if you’re working[6].
You must report changes in income, living situation, or health to both Social Security and Arkansas DHS. Failing to report can lead to overpayments, which you may have to pay back. If you receive too much, contact the agency immediately to arrange repayment. See our guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes.
Denials are common—don’t get discouraged. Many Arkansas residents are approved on appeal. Get help from a benefits counselor or legal aid if you’re denied.
Arkansas Medicaid requires yearly renewal. Watch for notices in the mail and respond promptly to avoid a gap in coverage.
You can work and keep some benefits. Programs like Workers with Disabilities Medicaid and SSI work incentives help you stay employed without losing all your support.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes; SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both require a severe disability, but the application and eligibility rules are different.
Yes, children may qualify for SSI if the family’s income and resources are low enough and the child’s disability is severe. There are also Medicaid programs for children with disabilities.
In 2025, earning over $1,620/month ($2,700 if blind) may disqualify you from SSDI or SSI. Always check current SGA limits, as they change yearly[2].
ARChoices provides home and community-based services to adults 21–64 with physical or intellectual disabilities, or those 65+ who meet nursing facility level of care. You must also meet Medicaid income and resource rules[4].
Yes, the Workers with Disabilities Medicaid program covers employed individuals with disabilities who meet income and asset limits, allowing you to keep health coverage while working[6].
An ABLE account lets you save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Only the first $100,000 is exempt from SSI’s asset limit.
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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Appeal the decision. Many denials are overturned on appeal. You have the right to a hearing, and free legal help is often available.
Medicaid and waiver eligibility is reviewed annually. You’ll get a notice when it’s time to renew—respond promptly to avoid losing coverage.
Report changes to both Social Security and Arkansas DHS as soon as possible to avoid overpayments or loss of benefits. See [Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes](/guides/overpayments-and-reporting).
Yes, look into housing assistance, vocational rehabilitation, and local nonprofit programs. Always check with Arkansas DHS and SSA for the latest options.
