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Connecticut • Chronic Illness
If you have cancer in Connecticut, you may qualify for federal and state benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and cash assistance. Eligibility depends on your income, assets, and how your condition affects your ability to work. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with cancer, you must have a medically documented condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or lead to death. If you are not blind, your monthly earnings must be below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit of $1,620 in 2025. If you are blind, the SGA limit is $2,700. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. For SSI, your income and assets must be below certain limits. Children with cancer may also qualify for benefits if they meet the criteria.
In Connecticut, eligibility for disability benefits follows federal rules, but there are state-specific programs like the Aid to Aged, Blind, and Disabled (AABD) supplemental cash assistance. For AABD, the 2025 federal COLA increase will not count as income, which helps maintain eligibility and Medicaid funding. You must have low income and few resources to qualify for SSI and AABD. Connecticut also offers Medicaid waivers and other support for people with cancer and other chronic illnesses.
Step 1: Collect all medical records, including diagnosis, treatment plans, and doctor’s notes.
Step 2: Visit the Social Security Administration (SSA) website to apply for SSI or SSDI. You can apply online, by phone, or in person.
Step 3: If you need help, contact Connecticut Disability Determination Services. They can guide you through the process.
Step 4: Apply for Medicaid and AABD through the Connecticut Department of Social Services. You can do this online or by phone.
Step 5: If your application is denied, you can appeal. Consider working with a disability attorney for help with appeals.
Step 6: Report any changes in your income or health to avoid overpayments.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For those with a work history and enough Social Security credits. Provides monthly payments if you can’t work due to cancer.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For those with low income and few resources. Provides monthly payments regardless of work history.
Medicaid: Health coverage for low-income individuals, including those with cancer.
Medicare: Health coverage for those who have received SSDI for 24 months.
Aid to Aged, Blind, and Disabled (AABD): Supplemental cash assistance for those with low income and few resources. The 2025 COLA increase will not count as income for AABD eligibility.
Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Home and community-based services for those with chronic illnesses like cancer.
Connecticut Legal Services: Free legal help for those applying for benefits.
ABLE Accounts: Tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities.
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI and Medicaid. In Connecticut, you can open an ABLE account to save for expenses related to cancer and other chronic illnesses. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free.
For SSI in 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind). For AABD in Connecticut, the 2025 COLA increase will not count as income, which helps maintain eligibility. Asset limits for SSI are $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple.
If your income or health changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to penalties or loss of benefits. Report changes to the SSA and Connecticut Department of Social Services as soon as possible.
Connecticut offers free legal help for residents applying for disability benefits. Contact CTLawHelp or your local legal aid office for support.
Yes, if your cancer prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or lead to death, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must meet income and asset limits for SSI, and have a work history for SSDI.
The substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit for SSI in 2025 is $1,620 per month. If you are blind, the limit is $2,700. The 2025 COLA increase will not count as income for AABD eligibility in Connecticut.
No, SSI does not require a work history. It is for people with low income and few resources. SSDI requires a work history and enough Social Security credits.
Yes, children with cancer may qualify for SSI or SSDI if they meet the criteria. Children who were receiving benefits as a minor may continue to receive benefits if they have a qualifying disability.
AABD is a supplemental cash assistance program for those with low income and few resources. The 2025 COLA increase will not count as income for AABD eligibility, which helps maintain Medicaid funding.
You can apply for Medicaid through the Connecticut Department of Social Services online or by phone. You will need to provide proof of income, assets, and medical records.
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.
Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for people with chronic illnesses like cancer. These services can include home care, therapy, and support for daily living.
Yes, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit of $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind). There are work incentives and programs to help you return to work.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. You can save money for expenses related to cancer without losing eligibility for SSI and Medicaid.
If your application is denied, you can appeal. Consider working with a disability attorney for help with the appeals process.
