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Delaware • Chronic Illness
People in Delaware with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) may qualify for disability benefits, including Medicaid, SSI, SSDI, and state programs. Eligibility depends on income, resources, and work history. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) can qualify for federal disability programs if it severely limits your ability to work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a medical guide called the Blue Book to decide if a condition is disabling. COPD is listed under respiratory disorders (Section 3.02). To qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must meet SSA's definition of disability and income/resource rules. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who paid into Social Security through work. Both programs may provide cash and health coverage (Medicaid or Medicare) [1].
In Delaware, people with COPD may qualify for Medicaid (Delaware Healthy Plan) if they meet income and disability requirements. Medicaid covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and more. Delaware also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help people with COPD live independently. To qualify for these waivers, you must meet both medical and financial criteria. Some programs may have waiting lists. Delaware does not have a state-specific disability cash benefit, but residents may qualify for federal SSI and SSDI if they meet the rules. Immigrants must meet certain status requirements to get Medicaid in Delaware [2].
Delaware offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities. These accounts let you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use funds for housing, education, transportation, and more. To open an account, visit the Delaware ABLE website or call 1-800-332-2272.
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. For Medicaid in Delaware, income limits vary by program and household size. For example, the Healthy Plan may cover adults with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. Medicaid waivers may have different income and asset rules.
If you get SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid, you must report changes in income, resources, or living situation. Failure to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. Keep records of all reports and communications with agencies.
Contact the Delaware Division of Vocational Rehabilitation or a local disability advocacy group for help with applications and paperwork.
Yes, COPD can qualify for disability benefits if it meets SSA's definition of disability. You must show that your condition severely limits your ability to work and meets the medical criteria in the SSA Blue Book.
You can apply for Medicaid online at delawarebenefits.gov, by mail, or in person at a Delaware Health and Social Services office. You will need to provide proof of income, disability, and residency.
For the Delaware Healthy Plan, adults may qualify with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. For SSI, the federal limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025.
Yes, you can work and still get disability benefits. SSI and SSDI have work incentives that let you keep benefits while you try to work. Medicaid waivers may also allow you to work and keep support services.
A Medicaid waiver is a program that helps people with disabilities live in the community instead of institutions. For COPD, it may cover home care, personal care, and other support services to help you live independently.
You can open a Delaware ABLE account online or by phone. You must have a disability that started before age 26. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes, you must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid. Failure to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. Keep records of all reports.
Some immigrants can get disability benefits in Delaware. SSI and Medicaid have rules about immigration status. Legal permanent residents and certain other groups may qualify, but undocumented immigrants generally do not.
You will need medical records that show your COPD diagnosis, treatment history, pulmonary function tests, and how your condition affects your ability to work. Doctor notes and hospital records are also helpful.
The process can take several months. SSI and SSDI applications are reviewed by SSA, and Medicaid applications are reviewed by Delaware Health and Social Services. Waiver applications may have waiting lists.
