People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Delaware can get help from federal and state programs. These include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
To get federal disability benefits for ALS in Delaware, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) rules. ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition, so approval is fast. You need to have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain time. For SSDI, you usually need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. For SSI, your income and assets must be low. Both programs require that your disability stops you from working and will last at least a year or lead to death. [^1][^2]
State-specific information is limited; start here: Delaware’s Division of Social Services handles SSI and Medicaid. The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation may offer job support. Delaware does not have a state short-term disability program like California. For ALS, you may qualify for Medicaid waivers that help pay for home care, equipment, and other services. Check with the Division of Social Services for details on eligibility and how to apply. [^3][^4]
Federal programs for ALS in Delaware include:
These programs help cover medical bills, daily living costs, and more. [^1][^2]
State programs for ALS in Delaware include:
Check with the Division of Social Services for more details on eligibility and how to apply. [^3][^4]
Delaware offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities. These accounts let you save money for disability-related costs without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $16,000 per year (2023 limit) and the first $100,000 does not count against SSI income limits. Learn more at the official Delaware ABLE website. [^5]
For SSI in Delaware, the income limit is $914 per month for an individual and $1,371 for a couple (2023). For Medicaid, limits vary by program and household size. ABLE accounts do not count toward SSI or Medicaid asset limits if under $100,000. [^6]
If you get too much money from SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid, you may have to pay it back. Report any changes in your income, assets, or living situation right away. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits safe. Learn more about reporting changes and avoiding overpayments. [^7]
ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition. This means your SSDI or SSI application will be fast-tracked for quick approval. You still need to meet all other eligibility rules.
Yes, ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition. This means your SSDI or SSI application will be fast-tracked for quick approval. You still need to meet all other eligibility rules.
The SSI income limit in Delaware is $914 per month for an individual and $1,371 for a couple (2023). These limits may change each year.
Yes, if you meet the rules for both programs. SSDI is based on work history, and SSI is based on low income and assets. Many people with ALS get both.
You can apply for Medicaid online at Delaware ASSIST or by calling the Division of Social Services at 1-866-843-7212. You will need to provide proof of income, assets, and disability.
Medicaid waivers help pay for home and community-based services for people with disabilities. These can include personal care, respite care, and assistive technology.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related costs without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $16,000 per year (2023 limit).
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, you must report any changes in your income, assets, or living situation to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits safe.
Yes, there are work incentives for people with disabilities. You can try to work without losing your benefits right away. Learn more about SSI and SSDI work incentives.
ALS is fast-tracked, so approval is usually quick. Most claims are approved within a few weeks.
Medicaid waivers can help pay for home care, personal care, and assistive technology for people with ALS in Delaware.
