People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Connecticut can access federal and state benefits for income, healthcare, and support. Key programs include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and important resources.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a qualifying condition for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The Social Security Administration (SSA) automatically approves most ALS applications because ALS is considered a Compassionate Allowances condition. To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical proof of ALS diagnosis. In 2025, the maximum monthly SSDI benefit is $4,018, and the minimum is $967. SSI payments depend on income and resources, with a federal base rate of $943 per month in 2025. Connecticut may add a small state supplement to SSI payments.
Connecticut does not have a state disability insurance program like California. Instead, residents rely on federal programs (SSDI, SSI) and state Medicaid waivers for support. Connecticut Medicaid offers Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers for people with ALS, which can cover home care, assistive technology, and other supports. To qualify for Medicaid, you must meet income and asset limits. Connecticut also offers ABLE accounts, which allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits. People with ALS may qualify for expedited processing for Medicaid and other state programs.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments based on work history. ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition, so approval is fast.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly payments for people with limited income and resources. Connecticut may add a small state supplement.
Medicare: Automatic enrollment after 24 months of SSDI. Covers medical care, hospital stays, and some home health services.
Medicaid: For people with low income and resources. Covers long-term care, home health, and other supports.
ABLE Accounts: Tax-advantaged savings accounts for disability-related expenses.
SSA: Disability Benefits (2025)
Connecticut Medicaid Waivers: Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers for people with ALS. Covers home care, assistive technology, and other supports. Contact the Department of Social Services for eligibility and application.
Connecticut ABLE Accounts: Tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities. Open an account at ctable.ct.gov.
Department of Rehabilitation Services: Helps people with disabilities find employment and access support services.
Connecticut Department of Social Services: Administers Medicaid, SSI, and other assistance programs.
Connecticut Department of Social Services: Medicaid Waivers (2025)
Connecticut ABLE Accounts (2025)
Connecticut offers ABLE accounts, which allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. You can save up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit) and use the funds for disability-related expenses. ABLE accounts are easy to open online at ctable.ct.gov.
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual. Connecticut may add a small state supplement. For Medicaid, income and asset limits vary by program. ABLE accounts do not count toward SSI or Medicaid asset limits, but withdrawals for non-qualified expenses may affect eligibility.
Report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and the Department of Social Services to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits. Keep records of all changes and correspondence.
Contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or the Connecticut Department of Social Services at 1-855-805-4357 for assistance with applications and questions.
Yes, ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition, so Social Security processes applications quickly. Most people with ALS are approved within days or weeks.
Connecticut offers Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers for people with ALS. These waivers cover home care, assistive technology, and other supports. Contact the Department of Social Services for details.
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office. Provide medical records and proof of diagnosis.
Yes, Connecticut Medicaid HCBS waivers can cover home care for people with ALS. Contact the Department of Social Services to apply.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. You can save up to $18,000 per year (2025) and use the funds for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid.
No, Connecticut does not have a state disability insurance program. Residents rely on federal programs (SSDI, SSI) and state Medicaid waivers for support.
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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The maximum monthly SSDI benefit in 2025 is $4,018. The minimum is $967. SSI payments depend on income and resources, with a federal base rate of $943 per month. Connecticut may add a small state supplement.
Yes, you can work while receiving SSDI or SSI, but there are limits. SSDI allows a trial work period and ongoing work incentives. SSI has strict income limits. Report all work to Social Security.
Report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and the Department of Social Services to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits.
Contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, the Connecticut Department of Social Services at 1-855-805-4357, or Disability Rights Connecticut for assistance.
