People with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in Illinois can access federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and special programs for workers with disabilities. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), you must meet Social Security’s definition of disability. This means your TBI causes marked and severe functional limitations that have lasted or are expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. You must not be doing substantial work—earning more than $1,620 per month in 2025 if not blind, or $2,700 if blind. Social Security reviews your medical records and work history to decide eligibility. Children with TBI may also qualify for SSI if their condition meets the same medical standards and their family’s income and resources are within limits[3][6].
In Illinois, adults with TBI who work may qualify for Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD). This program provides Medicaid coverage for people aged 16–64 with disabilities who earn up to $4,393 per month (single) or $5,962 (couple). HBWD allows up to $25,000 in assets, higher than most Medicaid programs. You must have a qualifying disability, such as TBI, and be working. Children with TBI may also qualify for Medicaid waivers if they meet medical and financial criteria[1][9].
IL ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities, including TBI, to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year and up to $100,000 without affecting SSI. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation[8].
If your income or resources change, you must report it to Social Security or the Illinois Department of Human Services. Failing to report can result in overpayments and penalties. Use the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide to understand how work affects your benefits[5].
Contact the Illinois Department of Human Services Help Line at 1-800-843-6154 for help with applications and questions about benefits.
Yes, you can work and keep disability benefits if your earnings are below the Substantial Gainful Activity limit ($1,620/month in 2025 for non-blind, $2,700 for blind). Work incentives help you keep benefits while working[3][6].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those with a work history. Both require a qualifying disability, like TBI, that causes marked and severe limitations[7][6].
If you have TBI and meet income and asset limits, you can apply for Medicaid through the Illinois Department of Human Services. If you work, check if you qualify for HBWD, which has higher limits[1][9].
Yes, children with TBI may qualify for SSI or Medicaid waivers if their condition causes marked and severe limitations and their family’s income and resources are within limits[3][9].
Work incentives help people with TBI keep benefits while working. Examples include trial work periods, continued Medicaid coverage, and help with work expenses[5].
ABLE accounts let people with TBI save money without losing SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses[8].
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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The SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals in 2025. Earning above this may affect your benefits[3][6].
Yes, Medicaid and Medicare can help cover medical bills. Medicaid waivers may provide extra services for people with TBI who need more support[1][9].
Report changes in income or resources to Social Security or the Illinois Department of Human Services. Use the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide to understand reporting rules[5].
Contact the Illinois Department of Human Services Help Line at 1-800-843-6154, or a Work Incentives Planning and Assistance Program for help with applications[5].
