People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Indiana may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSDI, SSI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources for Indiana residents.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with ALS, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. ALS is considered a Compassionate Allowances condition, meaning applications are fast-tracked for approval. For SSDI, you must have worked enough years to earn work credits. For SSI, your income and resources must be below set limits. Both programs require that your disability prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The SGA limit for 2025 is projected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,550 for blind individuals. [^1][^2][^6]
In Indiana, people with ALS may also qualify for state-specific programs and services. The Indiana Disability Determination Bureau (DDB) works with the Social Security Administration to make medical determinations for disability benefits. Indiana offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can provide support for people with ALS who need help with daily living. The state also participates in the Ticket to Work program, which helps adults with disabilities find employment and vocational rehabilitation services. To qualify for state programs, you may need to meet additional income and resource requirements. [^3][^4][^9]
For more detailed information, see the official SSA disability benefits page and the Indiana DDB website. [^3][^6][^7]
ABLE accounts allow people with ALS in Indiana to save for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSDI, SSI, or Medicaid. Contributions to an ABLE account are not counted as income or resources for federal benefits. Indiana residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. For more information, see the ABLE Accounts guide. [^8]
For 2025, the SGA limit for non-blind individuals is projected to be $1,530 per month, and for blind individuals, $2,550 per month. SSI has additional income and resource limits. For the most current limits, see the SSA website. [^1][^2][^6]
It is important to report any changes in your condition or income to avoid overpayments. If you receive an overpayment, you may be required to repay the amount. For more information on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes, see the Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide. [^6]
ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition, so applications for SSDI and SSI are fast-tracked for approval. This means you may receive benefits more quickly than with other disabilities.
The SGA limit for non-blind individuals with ALS in Indiana is projected to be $1,530 per month in 2025. For blind individuals, it is $2,550 per month. These limits may change slightly based on inflation. [^1][^2]
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need to provide medical records and proof of income. [^6][^7]
Indiana offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, the State Disability Program for state employees, and Vocational Rehabilitation Services. The Indiana Disability Determination Bureau helps with medical determinations for disability benefits. [^3][^4][^9]
Yes, you can work while receiving SSDI or SSI, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. Work incentives allow some income without losing benefits. For more information, see the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide. [^1][^2][^6]
The Ticket to Work program helps adults with disabilities, including ALS, find employment and vocational rehabilitation services. It is available through the Social Security Administration and Indiana’s Vocational Rehabilitation Services. [^3]
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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You can contact the Indiana Disability Determination Bureau at 800-622-4968 for help with your application. Nonprofit organizations like Hanley Disability also provide support and advocacy. [^3][^9]
An ABLE account allows people with ALS to save for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSDI, SSI, or Medicaid. Indiana residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. [^8]
SSI has income and resource limits that may change each year. For the most current limits, see the SSA website. Indiana residents should also check with the Family and Social Services Administration for state-specific requirements. [^6]
ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition, so applications are fast-tracked for approval. The process may take a few weeks to a few months, depending on the completeness of your application and any additional information needed. [^5]
If you receive an overpayment, you may be required to repay the amount. Contact the Social Security Administration or the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration for information on repayment options. [^6]
