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Idaho • Chronic Illness
If you have asthma in Idaho and it prevents you from working, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI. Idaho does not have a separate state disability program, but you can also access Medicaid and special services for chronic conditions. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working and have paid Social Security taxes for at least five out of the last ten years. The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires that your asthma is severe enough to meet their definition of disability, which means it must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work activities for at least 12 months. You generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began [^1].
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with low income and limited resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older. SSI does not require a work history, but you must meet strict income and asset limits. Both SSDI and SSI require medical evidence showing your asthma is severe and long-lasting [^1].
Idaho does not have its own state disability program for adults with chronic illnesses like asthma. However, Idaho residents can apply for federal SSDI and SSI benefits. If you have asthma and qualify for SSI, you may also be eligible for Medicaid, which can help cover asthma medications, doctor visits, and other treatments. Idaho Medicaid has special provisions for people with chronic conditions, but eligibility is based on income and assets, not just your diagnosis [^3].
If your asthma is severe and you need long-term care or support services, you may qualify for Medicaid waivers or other state programs, but these are typically for people with developmental disabilities or very high care needs. For most people with asthma, federal benefits and Medicaid are the main options [^3].
Idaho does not have a separate state disability program for adults with chronic illnesses like asthma. However, Idaho residents can access federal disability benefits and Medicaid. Medicaid in Idaho can help cover asthma medications, doctor visits, and other treatments for those who qualify based on income and assets. Idaho also offers Medicaid waivers for people with developmental disabilities, but these are not typically for asthma unless it is part of a more complex condition [^3].
If you have asthma and need help with daily living or long-term care, you may qualify for Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers, but these are limited and require a high level of need. For most people with asthma, federal benefits and Medicaid are the main sources of support [^3].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Idaho, you can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses like asthma medications or equipment. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses do not affect benefits [^5].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is about $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Idaho follows these federal limits. SSDI has no income limit, but you must not earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,470 per month in 2024 and will likely increase in 2025 [^2].
If your income, work, or health changes, you must report it to the SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you work too much or your income goes up. You can avoid problems by reporting changes promptly and using work incentives like the Ticket to Work program [^5].
Contact Idaho’s Disability Determinations Service or a local benefits counselor for help with your application. They can answer questions and guide you through the process [^4].
If you qualify for Medicaid, it can cover asthma medications, doctor visits, and other treatments. Apply through Idaho Health and Welfare or when you apply for SSI [^3].
Yes, if your asthma is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. You need medical proof and must meet work or income requirements [^1].
The average SSDI payment in Idaho is about $1,334 per month, but your payment depends on your work history and earnings. Payments may increase in 2025 due to cost-of-living adjustments [^2].
The average SSI payment in Idaho is about $612 per month, but your payment depends on your income and assets. Payments may increase in 2025 due to cost-of-living adjustments [^2].
Yes, if you have low income and assets, you may qualify for Medicaid in Idaho. Medicaid can help cover asthma medications, doctor visits, and other treatments [^3].
You need medical records showing your asthma diagnosis, treatment history, and how it limits your ability to work. This can include doctor notes, test results, and treatment plans [^1].
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. You will need medical and financial documents [^4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult official sources or a qualified professional for your specific situation.
Yes, but you must not earn more than the SGA limit, which is $1,470 per month in 2024 and will likely increase in 2025. Work incentives can help you keep benefits while you try to work [^2].
If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision. You have 60 days to file an appeal. You may want to get help from a disability attorney or advocate [^4].
Yes, if you qualify for Medicaid or SSI, you may get help with asthma medications. Medicaid covers most asthma drugs and treatments for eligible people [^3].
Children with asthma may qualify for SSI or Medicaid if they meet income and medical requirements. Idaho also has programs for children with special health needs [^3].
