People with spinal cord injuries in Illinois can access federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and special programs like Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD). These programs help cover medical care, income, and work incentives.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years). For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources. Both programs require proof of disability from the Social Security Administration (SSA). In 2025, the SGA (Substantial Gainful Activity) limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals. If you earn above this, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI unless you use work incentives.
[Source: SSA.gov, 2025](https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/qualify.html; https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10026.pdf; https://il.db101.org/il/programs/income_support/ssdi2/program2e.htm; https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/disabilities-guidebook-social-security-disability-benefits)
In Illinois, people with spinal cord injuries can get extra help through state programs. The Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD) program lets you keep Medicaid while working, with income limits up to $4,393/month (single) or $5,962/month (couple). You can have up to $25,000 in assets. To qualify, you must be 16–64, working, and have a disability proven by SSA, VA, or a doctor's statement. Eligibility lasts for two years, and you can reapply 90 days before it expires.
[Source: HFS.illinois.gov, 2025; ILAging.illinois.gov, 2025](https://hfs.illinois.gov/medicalprograms/hbwd.html; https://ilaging.illinois.gov/benefitsaccess/eligibility-20and-20frequently-asked-questions.html)
[Source: SSA.gov, HFS.illinois.gov, ILAging.illinois.gov, 2025](https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/apply.html; https://hfs.illinois.gov/medicalprograms/hbwd.html; https://ilaging.illinois.gov/benefitsaccess/eligibility-20and-20frequently-asked-questions.html)
[Source: SSA.gov, CMS.gov, 2025](https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/qualify.html; https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10026.pdf; https://il.db101.org/nav/p.htm)
[Source: HFS.illinois.gov, ILAging.illinois.gov, 2025](https://hfs.illinois.gov/medicalprograms/hbwd.html; https://ilaging.illinois.gov/benefitsaccess/eligibility-20and-20frequently-asked-questions.html; https://il.db101.org/nav/p.htm)
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. 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, education, and housing. Illinois offers the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) program.
[Source: SSA.gov, HFS.illinois.gov, 2025](https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/disabilities-guidebook-social-security-disability-benefits; https://hfs.illinois.gov/medicalprograms/hbwd.html)
You must report changes in income, living situation, or work status to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes as soon as possible to SSA and Illinois agencies. Keep records of all reports and payments.
[Source: SSA.gov, HFS.illinois.gov, 2025](https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/reporting.html; https://hfs.illinois.gov/medicalprograms/hbwd.html)
Contact your local Social Security office or Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services for help with applications and questions.
The maximum SSI benefit in Illinois is $967 per month for an individual and $1,450 for a couple in 2025. Your actual payment may be lower based on other income.
Yes, you can work and keep disability benefits in Illinois. Programs like HBWD and SSDI work incentives let you earn income while keeping Medicaid and cash benefits.
You can prove disability with a letter from SSA, VA, or a completed Attachment A Physician's Statement. You must be 16–64 and totally and permanently disabled.
HBWD is an Illinois program that lets workers with disabilities keep Medicaid while earning up to $4,393/month (single). You can have up to $25,000 in assets.
HBWD eligibility lasts for two years from the date of approval. You can reapply 90 days before it expires.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can save up to $100,000 and use funds for disability-related expenses.
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 must report changes to SSA and Illinois agencies to avoid overpayments. Report changes as soon as possible and keep records.
The SGA (Substantial Gainful Activity) limit for SSDI in 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals.
Yes, you can get Medicaid and SSDI at the same time in Illinois. Medicaid covers medical needs, and SSDI provides monthly income.
You can get help from local SSA offices, Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, or disability advocacy groups. Many agencies offer application assistance.
