Tourette Syndrome Benefits in Arkansas: 2025 Guide

To qualify for federal disability benefits in Arkansas, you must have a medical condition that stops you from doing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for at least 12 months. In 2025, SGA means earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind). Tourette Syndrome can qualify if it severely limits your ability to work, even if it’s not on the official SSA list of impairments. You must also meet work credit requirements for SSDI or income/resource limits for SSI. Family members may also be eligible for dependent benefits. [^1][^2][^3]

Arkansas does not have a separate state disability program for adults, but people with Tourette Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid or ARChoices if they meet income and disability requirements. ARChoices provides home and community-based services for adults with physical disabilities. Eligibility for Medicaid is based on income, resources, and Arkansas residency. Children with Tourette Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid or SSI if they meet the criteria. State-specific programs may offer extra help with medical bills or daily living needs. [^4][^5][^6]

• Gather medical records showing Tourette Syndrome and how it affects your ability to work.
• Collect proof of income and work history.
• Apply online at SSA.gov or visit a local Social Security office.
• For Medicaid, apply through Arkansas Department of Human Services.
• Ask for help from a disability attorney or advocate if needed.

• Step 1: Get medical documentation from your doctor that details your Tourette Syndrome diagnosis and how it limits your daily activities and work.
• Step 2: Collect recent pay stubs, tax returns, or other proof of income and work history.
• Step 3: Apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office.
• Step 4: For Medicaid or ARChoices, apply through the Arkansas Department of Human Services website or local office.
• Step 5: Respond to any requests for more information or medical exams from SSA or DHS.
• Step 6: If denied, you can appeal the decision. Consider getting help from a disability attorney or advocate.
• Step 7: Report any changes in income, work, or medical status to avoid overpayments. [^1][^2][^3][^4][^5][^6]

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. Maximum benefit in 2025 is $4,018; average is $1,580.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Needs-based payments for people with limited income and resources. Amount varies by state.
• Medicare: Available after 24 months of SSDI, except for ALS or end-stage renal disease.
• Medicaid: Can be available for children or adults with low income, even if not on SSDI.
• Dependent Benefits: Family members may get benefits if the disabled person qualifies. [^1][^2][^3]

• Medicaid: Arkansas Medicaid covers medical bills for people with disabilities who meet income and resource limits. Eligibility is based on income, resources, Arkansas residency, and disability status. Covered services include doctor visits, hospital care, and some long-term services.
• ARChoices: Provides home and community-based services for adults with physical disabilities. This program helps with daily living needs and can include personal care, therapy, and support services.
• Workers with Disabilities Medicaid: Full Medicaid coverage for individuals with disabilities who are employed.
• Children’s Medicaid: Special categories for children with disabilities, including those with Tourette Syndrome. [^4][^5][^6]

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]

In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) and can affect eligibility for SSDI or SSI. Medicaid and SSI have separate income and resource limits. [^1][^2][^3]

If your income or work status changes, you must report it to SSA or DHS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to benefit reductions or repayment. Always report changes in a timely manner. [^8]

• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Monday-Friday

  Website

  For help with SSDI or SSI applications.
• Arkansas Department of Human Services
  Phone: 1-800-482-8988

  Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday-Friday

  Website

  For help with Medicaid or ARChoices applications.

• Can Tourette Syndrome qualify for disability benefits in Arkansas?

  Yes, Tourette Syndrome can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it severely limits your ability to work. You must provide medical proof and meet income or work credit requirements. Even if not on the SSA list, you may qualify if your condition is equally severe.

• How much money can I get from disability benefits in Arkansas?

  The maximum SSDI benefit in 2025 is $4,018 per month. Most people get about $1,580. SSI amounts vary based on income and resources. Medicaid and ARChoices may also provide extra help.

• What is the income limit for disability benefits in Arkansas?

  In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered Substantial Gainful Activity and can affect eligibility. Medicaid and SSI have separate income and resource limits.

• Can children with Tourette Syndrome get disability benefits in Arkansas?

  Yes, children with Tourette Syndrome may qualify for SSI or Medicaid if they meet the medical and financial criteria. Benefits can help with medical bills and daily living needs.

• What is ARChoices and how can it help me?

  ARChoices is a Medicaid waiver program in Arkansas that provides home and community-based services for adults with physical disabilities. It can help with personal care, therapy, and support services.

• Do I need to report changes in my income or work status?

  Yes, you must report any changes in income, work, or medical status to SSA or DHS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to benefit reductions or repayment.