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Illinois • Chronic Illness
People with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Illinois may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and special work programs. These programs help cover medical costs and provide financial support.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) medical and work requirements. For SSDI, you need enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years) and a severe COPD diagnosis that stops you from working. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources, and your COPD must cause marked and severe functional limitations. In 2025, the SSI income 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, and $2,700 for blind individuals. If you earn above these limits, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI unless you use work incentives. [^1][^2][^3]
In Illinois, people with COPD may qualify for Medicaid and special programs like Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD). HBWD allows workers with disabilities to keep Medicaid while earning up to $4,393 per month (single) or $5,962 per month (couple). Unlike other Medicaid programs, HBWD lets you have up to $25,000 in assets. You must be between ages 16 and 64, have a qualifying disability (including COPD), and be working. Illinois also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which may help with long-term care needs. [^4][^5]
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. In Illinois, you can save up to $100,000 in an ABLE account and still get SSI. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like medical care, housing, and education. [^9]
You must report changes in income, work, or health to Social Security and Illinois DHS. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. If you get an overpayment, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan. [^10]
If you want to work with COPD, ask about work incentives like Ticket to Work or HBWD. These programs help you keep benefits while you earn income.
Illinois offers free transit for people with disabilities through the Benefit Access Program. Check eligibility and apply for this benefit.
Yes, if your COPD is severe enough to stop you from working and meets SSA medical criteria. You may qualify for SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid. Work with your doctor to document your condition and apply through Social Security or Illinois DHS.
For SSI, you can earn up to $967/month (individual) in 2025. For SSDI, you can earn up to $1,620/month (non-blind) before benefits may be affected. HBWD lets you earn up to $4,393/month and keep Medicaid.
HBWD is an Illinois program that lets workers with disabilities keep Medicaid while earning more than regular Medicaid limits. You can earn up to $4,393/month (single) and have up to $25,000 in assets.
Yes, you must report changes to Social Security and Illinois DHS. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits. Report changes as soon as they happen.
Yes, you can work and keep benefits using work incentives like Ticket to Work or HBWD. These programs help you keep Medicaid and other benefits while you work.
You need medical records showing your COPD diagnosis, symptoms, and how it limits your daily life and ability to work. Your doctor should provide detailed reports and test results.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
The process can take several months. Social Security reviews your medical and financial records. You may need to appeal if denied. Apply as soon as possible and follow up regularly.
You can appeal the decision. Ask for a reconsideration, then a hearing if needed. Work with a disability advocate or attorney for help.
Yes, Illinois offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. These can help with long-term care needs for people with COPD.
Yes, SNAP provides food assistance, and the Benefit Access Program offers free transit for people with disabilities in Illinois.
