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Delaware • Physical/Mobility
People with Multiple Sclerosis in Delaware can get help through federal programs like SSI and SSDI, and state programs for healthcare and support. You must meet income and medical rules to qualify. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, you must have a medical condition that stops you from working for at least a year or is expected to result in death. For SSDI, you need to have worked and paid Social Security taxes for at least 5 of the last 10 years (or 40 credits total, with 20 in the last 10 years). For SSI, your income and resources must be below set limits. Multiple Sclerosis is a recognized disability if it meets these rules [^1][^2].
State-specific information is limited; start here: Delaware Division of Social Services for Medicaid and other state programs, and the Delaware Division of Vocational Rehabilitation for employment support. Delaware does not have a state short-term disability program like California. Most help comes from federal programs and Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services [^3][^4].
Federal programs for Multiple Sclerosis include:
These programs help with income, healthcare, and daily living expenses [^1][^2].
State programs in Delaware for Multiple Sclerosis include:
These programs help with healthcare, housing, and daily living [^3][^4].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the account for disability-related expenses like medical care, housing, and education. To open an account, visit the Delaware ABLE program website [^5].
For SSI, the 2025 federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you must not be able to do substantial work. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size. Check with Delaware Division of Social Services for current limits [^1][^2][^3].
You must report changes in your income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and Medicaid. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. For help, see the guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes [^6].
Contact the Delaware Division of Vocational Rehabilitation at 302-739-4433 for help with applications and medical records.
You can get SSI, SSDI, Medicare, and Medicaid. SSI and SSDI provide monthly income. Medicare and Medicaid provide health coverage. You must meet medical and income rules to qualify.
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need medical records and proof of income.
Delaware offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, vocational rehabilitation for employment, and case management for daily living support.
Yes, Medicaid and Medicare can help with healthcare costs. Medicaid is for low-income people, and Medicare is for SSDI recipients after 24 months.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use it for medical care, housing, and education.
Yes, you must report changes to Social Security and Medicaid. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
It can take 3 to 6 months to get a decision on SSI/SSDI. Medicaid and other state programs may be faster.
Yes, SSI and SSDI have work incentives that let you try working without losing benefits. See the guide on SSI & SSDI Work Incentives for details.
You can appeal the decision. Ask for a reconsideration, then a hearing if needed. Get help from a disability advocate or attorney.
You can get help from Social Security, Delaware Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, or a disability advocate. They can help with forms and medical records.