People with Cerebral Palsy in Indiana can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what to expect in 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with Cerebral Palsy, you must have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a strict definition of disability, considering your ability to do previous work and any other work in the national economy based on your age, education, and work experience. For children, SSI eligibility is based on functional limitations and family income.
Cerebral Palsy is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book under neurological disorders (Section 11.07). If your condition meets or equals the criteria, you may qualify for benefits. Even if not listed, you may still qualify if your symptoms are severe enough to prevent work or age-appropriate activities.
For SSDI, you must have earned enough work credits. For SSI, you must meet strict income and resource limits. Both programs require detailed medical documentation.
SSA Disability Qualification (accessed 2025-11-05)
In Indiana, the Disability Determination Bureau (DDB) works with the SSA to evaluate medical evidence for disability claims. Indiana follows federal guidelines for SSI and SSDI eligibility, but also offers state-specific programs like Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS). These waivers can provide additional support for people with Cerebral Palsy, such as personal care, therapy, and assistive technology.
Indiana’s Medicaid waivers have limited slots and may have waiting lists. Eligibility for waivers is based on functional need, not just diagnosis. You must also meet financial criteria. The state may refer adults to Vocational Rehabilitation Services through the SSA’s “Ticket to Work” program.
Indiana Disability Determination Bureau (accessed 2025-11-05)
Indiana Medicaid Waivers (accessed 2025-11-05)
Indiana DDB Contact (accessed 2025-11-05)
SSA Apply Online (accessed 2025-11-05)
Indiana DDB Contact (accessed 2025-11-05)
SSA Apply Online (accessed 2025-11-05)
Indiana Medicaid Waivers Application (accessed 2025-11-05)
SSA Benefits (accessed 2025-11-05)
Indiana Medicaid Waivers (accessed 2025-11-05)
Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation (accessed 2025-11-05)
Indiana State Disability Program (accessed 2025-11-05)
Children’s Special Health Care Services (accessed 2025-11-05)
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Indiana offers the INvestABLE program. You can save up to $16,000 per year, and the account can be used for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation.
INvestABLE (accessed 2025-11-05)
SSA SSI Limits (accessed 2025-11-05)
SSA SGA Limits (accessed 2025-11-05)
You must report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA. Failure to report can result in overpayments and penalties. If you receive an overpayment, you may be able to request a waiver or set up a repayment plan.
SSA Overpayments (accessed 2025-11-05)
Indiana Reporting Changes (accessed 2025-11-05)
Cerebral Palsy is a group of disorders that affect movement and muscle tone. It is recognized as a qualifying disability for SSI and SSDI if it prevents substantial gainful activity and is expected to last at least 12 months. Medical documentation is required.
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. You will need to provide medical records, proof of income, and other documentation. The Indiana Disability Determination Bureau will review your medical evidence.
Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities. You must meet functional and financial criteria. Apply through the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration or your local SSA office.
Yes, you can work and still receive benefits, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. In 2025, the SGA limit is expected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals. Work incentives may allow you to earn more without losing benefits.
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Indiana offers the INvestABLE program. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation.
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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If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal. You can request a reconsideration, a hearing, or review by the Appeals Council. Consider seeking help from a disability advocate.
Yes, children with Cerebral Palsy may qualify for SSI, Medicaid, and special health care services. Immediate SSI payments may be available for some conditions, including Cerebral Palsy, while the state agency decides on eligibility.
You must report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA. Failure to report can result in overpayments and penalties. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs provide monthly payments and may include Medicaid or Medicare coverage.
The Ticket to Work program helps people with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain employment. It provides support services and allows you to test your ability to work without losing benefits.
