People with cancer in Illinois may qualify for federal and state benefits, including Medicaid, SSI, SSDI, and special programs for workers with disabilities. These benefits help cover medical care, living expenses, and support work incentives.
People with cancer may qualify for federal disability benefits if their condition prevents them from working. To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), eligibility depends on limited income and resources. In 2025, the SSI limit is $967 per month for an individual and $1,450 for a couple. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for non-blind individuals is $1,620 per month in 2025. If you earn more than this, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI unless you qualify for a work incentive program[2][3][6].
In Illinois, people with cancer may qualify for Medicaid through the Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD) program if they are working and have a disability. HBWD allows a single person to earn up to $4,393 per month and a couple up to $5,962 per month. Unlike other Medicaid programs, HBWD allows up to $25,000 in assets. You must be between 16 and 64 years old and working to qualify. Illinois also offers Medicaid waivers for people with developmental disabilities and medically fragile individuals, which may be relevant for some cancer patients[1][7].
Illinois ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save for qualified disability expenses without risking loss of benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year in an ABLE account. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other disability-related expenses[8].
Report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and Illinois DHS. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties. Use the SSI/SSDI online portal or contact your local office to report changes[4].
Contact a benefits expert or call the Illinois DHS Benefits Planning Program at 1-217-588-6326 for help with applications and appeals.
Yes, if you have cancer and are working, you may qualify for Medicaid through the Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD) program. HBWD allows higher income and asset limits than other Medicaid programs[1].
The SSI income limit in Illinois is $967 per month for an individual and $1,450 per month for a couple in 2025. These limits may change slightly each year[6].
Yes, you can work and still get disability benefits in Illinois. Work incentive programs like HBWD and SSDI work incentives help you keep benefits while working[1][2].
You can apply for SSI/SSDI online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office. For HBWD, download the application from the Illinois Department of Human Services website[1][4].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save for qualified disability expenses without losing benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year in an ABLE account for expenses like housing, education, and transportation[8].
Medicaid waivers in Illinois provide home and community-based services to people with disabilities. These waivers may be relevant for some cancer patients who need long-term care or support services[7].
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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Yes, you may qualify for food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) if you have cancer and meet income and resource limits[4].
You must report any changes in income to Social Security and Illinois DHS. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties[4].
Children with cancer may qualify for SSI if they meet the disability and income requirements. The SSI income limit for children is $1,620 per month for non-blind children and $2,700 for blind children in 2025[3].
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. Contact a benefits expert or your local Social Security office for help with the appeals process[4].
