If you have Multiple Sclerosis in Arkansas, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid and ARChoices. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
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 or is expected to result in death. 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, while SSI is for those with limited income and resources. Both programs require that your condition is severe enough to prevent you from working at the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level, which in 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Even if your condition is not listed in the SSA's Listing of Impairments, you may still qualify if you can prove it is equally severe. [1][2][4][7]
In Arkansas, eligibility for state programs like Medicaid and ARChoices is based on income, resources, residency, and disability status. Medicaid covers medical bills for people with disabilities, including those with Multiple Sclerosis. ARChoices provides home and community-based services for adults with physical disabilities aged 21–64. The Workers with Disabilities Medicaid program offers full Medicaid coverage to employed individuals with disabilities. To qualify, you must meet both federal disability criteria and state-specific income and resource limits. Arkansas also offers Medicaid waivers for long-term care services, which can be crucial for those with progressive conditions like Multiple Sclerosis. [5][6]
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI and other benefits. In Arkansas, you can open an ABLE account to pay for qualified disability expenses. Contributions are tax-free, and earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free. [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 this can affect your eligibility for SSDI and SSI. For SSI, income and resources must be below certain limits set by the SSA. [2][4]
It is important to report any changes in income, work, or medical status to the SSA and Arkansas Department of Human Services to avoid overpayments. If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you may have to repay the excess. Reporting changes promptly can help prevent overpayments and ensure you receive the correct amount of benefits. [4]
Contact your local Social Security office or a disability advocate for help with your application. Many organizations offer free assistance to people with disabilities.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes, while SSI is for those with limited income and resources. Both programs provide monthly payments to people with disabilities, but eligibility criteria differ. [1][2][4]
You can work, but your earnings must be below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. In 2025, this is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. [2][4]
The approval process can take several months. If your application is denied, you can appeal within 60 days. The process may take longer if you need to go to a hearing. [1][2][4]
Multiple Sclerosis is considered a disabling condition if it prevents substantial work for at least 12 months. Even if your condition is not listed, you may qualify if it is equally severe. [2][4]
ARChoices is a Medicaid waiver program in Arkansas that provides home and community-based services for adults with physical disabilities aged 21–64. Services include personal care, home health, and respite care. [5][6]
Yes, Medicaid covers medical bills for people with disabilities, including those with Multiple Sclerosis. Eligibility is based on income, resources, and disability status. [5][6]
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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An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. Contributions and earnings are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free. [8]
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need to submit medical records, work history, and other required documents. [1][2][4]
If your application is denied, you can appeal within 60 days. The appeals process may include a reconsideration, a hearing, and a review by the Appeals Council. [1][2][4]
Yes, you must report any changes in income, work, or medical status to the SSA and Arkansas Department of Human Services to avoid overpayments and ensure you receive the correct amount of benefits. [4]
