Indiana • Chronic Illness

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Benefits in Indiana

If you have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Indiana, you may qualify for federal SSDI or SSI benefits, as well as state disability programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available in Indiana.

COPD is a qualifying disability for SSDI and SSI if it meets SSA criteria.
Indiana offers state disability benefits for public employees.
SSDI/SSI benefits may increase in 2025 due to COLA and higher SGA limits.
Indiana residents can also access Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts.
Reporting changes and understanding work incentives is important for ongoing eligibility.

Last reviewed: 2025-11-05

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Eligibility

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked enough years and paid Social Security taxes. Your COPD must prevent you from working for at least 12 months and meet the SSA's definition of disability.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. COPD must be severe enough to meet SSA medical criteria.
The SSA uses a Blue Book listing for respiratory disorders, including COPD (Listing 3.02). If your condition matches or is equivalent in severity, you may qualify.
In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is expected to rise to about $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals, allowing more income while receiving benefits[^1][^2].
The 2025 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is 2.5%, which will increase monthly benefit amounts[^2].

Indiana does not have a statewide short-term or long-term disability insurance program for private-sector workers. However, state employees may be eligible for Short-Term Disability (STD) and Long-Term Disability (LTD) benefits if they are unable to work due to COPD or another illness[^3].
To qualify for state disability, you must be a state employee and submit required forms, including a doctor's statement and medical information release[^3].
Indiana residents with COPD may also qualify for Medicaid, especially if they receive SSI or have low income. Medicaid can help cover medical costs related to COPD.
Indiana offers Medicaid waivers (HCBS) for people with disabilities, which may provide home and community-based services for those with COPD who need support[^4].
If you are a state employee, contact your HR department for details on applying for state disability benefits. For Medicaid, apply through the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA)[^5].

How to apply in Indiana

Gather medical records showing your COPD diagnosis and how it limits your ability to work.
Check if you qualify for SSDI (work history) or SSI (low income).
Apply online at SSA.gov or visit a local Social Security office.
If you are a state employee, submit disability forms to your HR department.
For Medicaid, apply through FSSA's online portal or local office.

Step 1: Collect Documentation
- Get medical records from your doctor that detail your COPD diagnosis, test results (like spirometry), treatments, and how your condition affects your daily life and ability to work.
- Gather work history and pay stubs if applying for SSDI.
Step 2: Determine Eligibility
- Review the SSA's Blue Book listing for respiratory disorders (Listing 3.02) to see if your COPD meets the criteria.
- If you have limited income and resources, you may qualify for SSI.
- If you are a state employee, check with HR about state disability benefits.
Step 3: Apply
- For SSDI/SSI: Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. The application will ask for personal, medical, and work information.
- For state disability (state employees): Complete and submit the required forms to your HR department, including the Employee's Statement of Claim and Authorization for Release of Medical Information[^3].
- For Medicaid: Apply online at FSSA's Benefits Portal or visit a local FSSA office[^5].
Step 4: Follow Up
- Respond promptly to any requests for more information from SSA or FSSA.
- Attend any required medical exams.
- If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision.

Programs & Services

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Pays benefits to people with a qualifying disability who have a work history. Monthly payments are based on your earnings record.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Provides monthly payments to people with disabilities who have limited income and resources.
Medicare: After receiving SSDI for 24 months, you may qualify for Medicare, which covers medical costs.
Medicaid: If you receive SSI or have low income, you may qualify for Medicaid, which covers medical costs and may include home and community-based services.
Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Indiana offers waivers for people with disabilities, which may provide services like home care, personal care, and respite care for those with COPD who need support[^4].

State Disability (STD/LTD): Indiana provides Short-Term and Long-Term Disability benefits for state employees who are unable to work due to COPD or another illness. Benefits are paid as a percentage of salary and may include insurance premium continuation[^3].
Medicaid: Indiana's Medicaid program covers medical costs for people with disabilities, including those with COPD. Eligibility is based on income and resources.
Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Indiana offers waivers for people with disabilities, which may provide home and community-based services for those with COPD who need support[^4].
ABLE Accounts: Indiana residents with disabilities can open ABLE accounts to save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility[^6].
Work Incentives: Indiana offers programs to help people with disabilities return to work, including vocational rehabilitation and supported employment services[^7].

Money & Banking

Indiana residents with disabilities can open ABLE accounts to save for disability-related expenses. These accounts do not affect SSI or Medicaid eligibility as long as the balance is under $100,000.
Funds in an ABLE account can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as medical care, education, housing, and transportation.
To open an ABLE account, visit the Indiana ABLE program website or contact a financial institution that offers ABLE accounts[^6].

For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you cannot earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. In 2025, the SGA limit is expected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals[^1][^2].
For SSI, the federal income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual, but some income is not counted. Indiana may have a higher state supplement.
For Medicaid, income limits vary based on household size and program. In 2025, the limit for most adults is 138% of the federal poverty level[^5].

It is important to report any changes in your income, work status, or living situation to the Social Security Administration and FSSA.
Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay.
If you receive an overpayment notice, contact the agency to discuss repayment options or appeal the decision[^8].

Tips & Gotchas

Need Help Applying?

Contact your local Social Security office or Indiana FSSA office for help with your application. You can also consult a disability advocate or attorney for guidance.

Contacts

Social Security Administration
Phone: 1-800-772-1213
TTY: 1-800-325-0778
Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Website
For SSDI/SSI questions and applications.
Indiana Family and Social Services Administration
Phone: 1-800-403-0864
Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Website
For Medicaid and state disability questions.

FAQs

Can I get SSDI for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Indiana?
Yes, if your COPD is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months and you have a qualifying work history. You must meet the SSA's medical criteria for disability.
What is the SGA limit for SSDI in Indiana in 2025?
The SGA limit for non-blind individuals is expected to be $1,530 per month in 2025. This is the maximum you can earn and still receive SSDI benefits.
Can I get SSI for COPD in Indiana?
Yes, if your COPD is severe and you have limited income and resources. SSI is for people with disabilities who do not have a qualifying work history.
Does Indiana have a state disability program for private-sector workers?
No, Indiana does not have a state disability insurance program for private-sector workers. State employees may be eligible for Short-Term and Long-Term Disability benefits.
How do I apply for Medicaid in Indiana?
You can apply for Medicaid online at FSSA's Benefits Portal or visit a local FSSA office. You will need to provide information about your income, resources, and household.
What are Medicaid waivers in Indiana?
Medicaid waivers in Indiana provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities, including those with COPD. These services may include home care, personal care, and respite care.

Official resources

SSDI and SSI Benefits Overview(federal)
Indiana State Disability Program(state_agency)
Indiana Medicaid Waivers (HCBS)(state_agency)

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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

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