People in Georgia who have experienced amputation may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. These programs help cover medical costs, living expenses, and support independence.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability. For amputation, Social Security’s Blue Book lists specific criteria, such as the loss of both hands, one or both legs above the knee, or one arm and one leg. If your amputation does not meet these criteria, you may still qualify if it causes marked and severe functional limitations. SSI also considers your income and resources, while SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. Both programs require a medical review and documentation of your condition and its impact on your ability to work or perform daily activities [4].
In Georgia, eligibility for disability benefits depends on both federal criteria and state-specific programs. For Medicaid waivers, you must meet functional and financial requirements, which may include needing help with daily living activities due to your amputation. Georgia also offers ABLE accounts (STABLE accounts) to residents who developed a qualifying disability before age 26. These accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without losing needs-based benefits. State employees may be eligible for short- and long-term disability insurance through their employer, which can provide income replacement if you are unable to work due to amputation. Always check with the Georgia Department of Human Services or your employer for the most current eligibility rules [1][5].
Georgia STABLE is Georgia’s ABLE account program. It allows people with disabilities to save and invest for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for needs-based benefits. You can save up to $19,000 per year (and, if employed, up to $15,060 more) in a STABLE account. The account’s growth is tax-free, and contributions may qualify for a state income tax deduction. To open an account, visit Georgia STABLE and complete the application process [1].
For SSI in 2025, the income limit for non-blind beneficiaries is $1,620 per month, and for blind beneficiaries, it is $2,700 per month. These limits may change each year. For Medicaid, income and resource limits vary by program and household size. Always check with the Georgia Department of Human Services for the most current limits [4].
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you may have to repay the overpayment. It is important to report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to the Social Security Administration and the Georgia Department of Human Services. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties. For more information, see the guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes [6].
Contact your local Social Security office or the Georgia Department of Human Services for help with applications and eligibility questions.
People with amputation in Georgia may qualify for SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Medicare. SSI and SSDI provide monthly payments based on disability and work history. Medicaid and Medicare provide health coverage. Each program has different eligibility requirements.
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need to provide medical records and proof of income. The application process may take several months.
Medicaid waivers in Georgia provide additional services like home care and personal assistance to people with disabilities who meet functional and financial requirements. These waivers help people live independently in their communities.
Yes, if you developed a qualifying disability before age 26, you can open an ABLE account through Georgia STABLE. You can save up to $19,000 per year (and, if employed, up to $15,060 more) for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for needs-based benefits.
State employees in Georgia may be eligible for short- and long-term disability insurance, which can replace up to 60% of your pay if you are unable to work due to amputation. Benefits can last for several months or until retirement age, depending on the plan.
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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You must report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to the Social Security Administration and the Georgia Department of Human Services. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties.
You will need medical records that document your amputation and its impact on your ability to work or perform daily activities. The Social Security Administration may also require additional tests or evaluations.
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits, but there are limits on how much you can earn. For SSI, the limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind beneficiaries and $2,700 for blind beneficiaries in 2025. For SSDI, you can earn up to $1,620 per month before your benefits may be affected.
Families can access support through Medicaid waivers, ABLE accounts, and state programs. The Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities also provides resources and advocacy for families of people with disabilities.
Monitor updates from the Georgia Department of Human Services, the Social Security Administration, and the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities. These agencies provide information about changes in programs and services.
