If you have Multiple Sclerosis in Connecticut, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state programs for cash, health, and work support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To get federal disability benefits for Multiple Sclerosis, you must have a medical condition that stops you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or lead to death. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough Social Security taxes paid. For SSI, you must have low income and few assets. If you are not blind, you must earn less than $1,620 per month in 2025. If you are blind, the limit is $2,700 per month. Children with disabilities may also qualify for benefits on a parent's record if the disability started before age 22[^1][^4].
Connecticut uses federal rules for SSI and SSDI, but also offers extra help through the Aid to Aged, Blind, and Disabled (AABD) program. If you get SSI, you may also get AABD cash aid. The state does not count the 2025 Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) as income for AABD, so your benefits won't be reduced. You must meet Connecticut's income and asset limits for state programs. Some programs may have extra rules for people with Multiple Sclerosis or other physical disabilities[^2][^3][^5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can use the funds for housing, education, and other needs. Connecticut offers ABLE accounts for residents with disabilities that started before age 26[^3].
You must report changes in income, work, or health to Social Security and DSS. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Use the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide to avoid overpayments[^5].
Connecticut does not count the 2025 Social Security COLA as income for AABD cash aid, so your benefits stay the same.
Yes, if your Multiple Sclerosis stops you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must meet federal and state rules for income, assets, and medical proof[^1][^3][^4].
For SSI and SSDI, the 2025 limit is $1,620/month if not blind, $2,700/month if blind. State programs may have different rules. The 2025 COLA is not counted as income for AABD cash aid[^1][^2][^4].
For SSDI, yes, you need a work history and enough Social Security taxes paid. For SSI, no work history is needed, but you must have low income and few assets[^3][^4].
Yes, children with Multiple Sclerosis may get benefits if the disability started before age 22 and a parent is retired, disabled, or deceased. The child must be unmarried and meet adult disability rules[^4].
AABD is a Connecticut cash aid program for people with disabilities who get SSI. The state does not count the 2025 Social Security COLA as income for AABD, so your benefits stay the same[^2][^3].
You can apply for Medicaid at Access Health CT or your local DSS office. If you get SSI, you may be automatically enrolled in Medicaid[^3][^5].
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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Yes, but you must not earn more than the SGA limit. There are work incentives to help you keep benefits while you try to work. See the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide for details[^1][^4][^5].
If your claim is denied, you can appeal. Ask for help from a Connecticut disability attorney or legal aid group. They can help you with the appeal process[^1][^5].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. Connecticut offers ABLE accounts for residents with disabilities that started before age 26[^3].
Yes, you must report changes in income, work, or health to Social Security and DSS. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Use the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide to avoid overpayments[^5].
