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Idaho • Chronic Illness
People with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis in Idaho may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state Medicaid programs and waivers. Eligibility depends on medical severity, work history, and financial need. Idaho offers support for employment, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Idaho, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources. Both programs require that your disability meets the Social Security Administration’s definition, which includes severe limitations in daily activities and work. The SSA regularly updates rules and payment amounts, including annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) to keep pace with inflation. In 2025, the COLA is 2.5%, increasing benefit amounts for SSDI and SSI recipients [1].
The SSA also sets limits on how much you can earn while receiving benefits, called the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above this limit may affect your benefits [1].
In Idaho, eligibility for Medicaid and developmental disability services requires both financial eligibility and meeting the Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF/IID) level of care. For adults with developmental disabilities, your disability must be chronic, appear before age 22, and substantially limit your ability to function in at least three major life activities such as self-care, learning, mobility, or independent living. Myalgic Encephalomyelitis may qualify if it meets these criteria, especially if it causes functional limitations similar to intellectual disability or other qualifying conditions. You must first apply for Medicaid and be determined financially eligible before applying for developmental disability services [2].
Idaho’s Disability Determinations Service (DDS) handles the medical review of SSDI and SSI claims for Idaho residents. DDS does not accept applications directly; claims are sent from Social Security offices for review. Idaho also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can provide additional support for people with disabilities [2][3].
Idaho offers ABLE accounts, which allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free. ABLE accounts can help cover costs for education, housing, transportation, and personal support services [4].
It’s important to report changes in income, resources, or medical status to SSA and Medicaid to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit reductions. Keep records of all communications and changes. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact SSA or Medicaid for options to resolve it [5].
Contact the Idaho Disability Determinations Service for help with medical reviews or questions about SSDI/SSI claims. For Medicaid and developmental disability services, contact the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.
Yes, if your condition prevents you from working for at least 12 months and meets SSA’s definition of disability. You must also meet work history or income/resource requirements for SSDI or SSI [5].
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above this limit may affect your benefits [1].
You must complete a Medicaid application and be determined financially eligible. Then, apply for developmental disability services if you meet medical criteria [2].
Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities. These can include personal care, respite care, and other supports to help you live independently [2].
Yes, but there are limits. Earning above the SGA limit may affect your benefits. Work incentives can help you keep benefits while working [5].
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. It can help cover disability-related expenses without affecting eligibility for means-tested benefits [4].
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information and is not legal advice. Always consult official sources or a benefits expert for your specific situation.
Report changes in income, resources, or medical status to SSA and Medicaid to avoid overpayments. Keep records of all communications and changes [5].
Idaho offers vocational rehabilitation, job training, and other resources to help people with disabilities find and keep jobs [4].
The Idaho DDS handles medical reviews for SSDI and SSI claims. They do not accept applications directly; claims are sent from Social Security offices [3].
Children may qualify for SSI if they meet medical and financial criteria. Benefits for children usually stop at age 18 unless they have a qualifying disability [5].
