People with Parkinson’s Disease in Illinois may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and special work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Parkinson’s Disease, you must meet Social Security’s definition of disability. This means your condition must prevent you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. If your earnings are above these limits, you generally cannot be considered disabled. Parkinson’s Disease is listed as a qualifying condition if it meets the medical criteria. You must also meet income and resource limits for SSI, while SSDI is based on work history and Social Security taxes paid[2][3][4][6].
In Illinois, people with Parkinson’s Disease may qualify for Medicaid through the Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD) program if they are between 16 and 64, working, and have countable income up to $4,393 per month for a single person or $5,962 for a couple. HBWD allows up to $25,000 in assets, which is higher than most Medicaid programs. You must also meet Social Security’s disability definition. Illinois also offers Medicaid waivers for adults with developmental disabilities and medically fragile technology-dependent waivers, which may be relevant for advanced Parkinson’s cases[1][9].
IL ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save up to $18,000 per year without losing benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as medical care, education, and housing. To open an IL ABLE account, visit the IL ABLE website[8].
It is critical to report any changes in income, work, or medical status to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands and loss of benefits. Report changes promptly to Social Security and the Illinois Department of Human Services[5].
Illinois offers work incentives that help you keep benefits while working. These include the Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD) program and Medicaid waivers.
IL ABLE accounts let you save up to $18,000 per year without losing benefits. Use funds for qualified disability expenses.
Yes, you can work and still get disability benefits. The SGA limit in 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. Working above this limit may affect your benefits, but work incentives can help you keep benefits while working[2][3][4].
SSI is based on financial need and is for people with limited income and resources. SSDI is based on work history and Social Security taxes paid. Both provide cash benefits and may lead to Medicaid or Medicare[2][3][7].
You can apply for Medicaid through the Illinois Department of Human Services. If you are working, you may qualify for the Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD) program. Apply online, by phone, or in person[1][5].
Yes, you may be able to get both SSI and SSDI if you meet the eligibility rules for both programs. SSI is based on financial need, and SSDI is based on work history[2][7].
The maximum SSI benefit is $967 per month for an individual and $1,450 for a couple. The minimum SSDI benefit is $967 per month, and the maximum is $4,018 per month[2][3][7].
Report changes in income or work status to Social Security and the Illinois Department of Human Services promptly. This helps avoid overpayments and loss of benefits[5].
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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An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save up to $18,000 per year without losing benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as medical care, education, and housing[8].
Yes, Illinois offers Medicaid waivers for adults with developmental disabilities and medically fragile technology-dependent waivers, which may be relevant for advanced Parkinson’s cases[9].
Yes, you may qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) if you meet income limits. SNAP provides food assistance to people with disabilities[5].
If your income goes above the SGA limit, you may lose your disability benefits. However, work incentives can help you keep benefits while working above the limit[2][3][4].
