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Georgia • Chronic Illness
People with cancer in Georgia may qualify for federal and state benefits, including SSI, Medicaid, ABLE accounts, and disability insurance. These programs help cover medical costs, living expenses, and support independence. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources for Georgians with cancer.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration's definition of disability. For cancer, this means the condition must be severe enough to prevent you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid into Social Security. Children with cancer may also qualify if they meet the medical and financial criteria. Income and asset limits apply, and rules change each year. For 2025, the SSI income limit for non-blind adults is $1,620 per month, and for blind adults it is $2,700 per month. For children, the same limits apply, and family income may also be considered if the child lives at home[3].
In Georgia, people with cancer may qualify for SSI, Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. To be eligible for a Georgia STABLE (ABLE) account, you must have developed a qualifying disability before age 26. Cancer is considered a qualifying disability if it meets the Social Security Administration's criteria. State employees may also have access to disability insurance through their employer, which can provide short-term and long-term disability benefits. There are no additional state-specific disability programs for cancer, but Medicaid waivers and other state health programs may be available. Income and asset limits apply for most programs, and eligibility can change based on your situation[1][2][4].
ABLE accounts, like Georgia STABLE, let people with disabilities save and invest for qualified expenses without losing benefits. You can save up to $19,000 per year (and up to $15,060 more if employed) in a Georgia STABLE account. The account's growth is tax-free, and contributions may qualify for a state income tax deduction. To be eligible, you must have developed a qualifying disability before age 26. Cancer is considered a qualifying disability if it meets the Social Security Administration's criteria[1].
For SSI in 2025, the income limit for non-blind adults is $1,620 per month, and for blind adults it is $2,700 per month. For children, the same limits apply, and family income may also be considered if the child lives at home. For Medicaid, income limits vary based on household size and other factors. For ABLE accounts, there are no income limits, but you must have a qualifying disability before age 26[3].
It is important to report any changes in your situation to avoid overpayments. This includes changes in income, resources, living situation, or medical condition. If you receive an overpayment, you may be required to repay the amount. To avoid overpayments, report changes as soon as possible and keep records of all communications with benefit agencies[3].
Contact your local Social Security office or the Georgia Gateway helpline for help with applications. Nonprofits like Parent to Parent of Georgia also offer support and guidance.
Yes, if your cancer is severe enough to prevent you from working and you meet the income and resource limits. SSI is for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older. You must also meet the Social Security Administration's definition of disability[3].
An ABLE account, like Georgia STABLE, lets you save and invest for qualified expenses without losing benefits. You can save up to $19,000 per year (and up to $15,060 more if employed) for expenses related to your disability. Cancer is considered a qualifying disability if it meets the Social Security Administration's criteria[1].
Yes, if you meet the income and resource limits. Medicaid provides health coverage to people with low income and limited resources, including those with cancer. You can apply online at gateway.ga.gov or by phone at 1-877-423-4746[5].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older. SSDI is for people who are disabled and have worked and paid into Social Security. Both programs can provide monthly payments to people with cancer who meet the eligibility criteria[3].
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. For Medicaid, apply online at gateway.ga.gov or by phone at 1-877-423-4746. For ABLE accounts, apply online at georgiastable.com[1][3][5].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
For 2025, the SSI income limit for non-blind adults is $1,620 per month, and for blind adults it is $2,700 per month. For children, the same limits apply, and family income may also be considered if the child lives at home[3].
Yes, but there are limits on how much you can earn. For SSI, the income limit for non-blind adults is $1,620 per month, and for blind adults it is $2,700 per month. For SSDI, you can work as long as your earnings do not exceed the substantial gainful activity limit[3].
A Medicaid waiver, like HCBS, provides home and community-based services to people with disabilities, including those with cancer. These waivers can help with long-term care, personal care, and other support services. You can apply through your local Medicaid office[5].
Report any changes in your situation as soon as possible, including changes in income, resources, living situation, or medical condition. Keep records of all communications with benefit agencies and follow their instructions for reporting changes[3].
Yes, if you are a state employee. State employees may have access to short-term and long-term disability insurance, which can provide benefits if you are unable to work due to cancer. Contact your HR department for more information[2][4].
