If you have a mobility impairment in Indiana, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSDI, SSI, Medicaid waivers, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that prevents you from doing any substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. You must also have worked enough years to earn 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and meet the same medical criteria. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a strict definition of disability, considering your ability to do past work and any other work in the national economy. [^1]
For 2025, the SGA limit for non-blind individuals is expected to rise to $1,530 per month, allowing more income before benefits are affected. For blind individuals, the limit may rise to $2,550 per month. [^2]
In Indiana, eligibility for SSDI and SSI follows federal rules, but the Indiana Disability Determination Bureau (DDB) makes medical decisions for the SSA. The DDB works with local SSA offices to review medical evidence and determine if your mobility impairment meets the definition of disability. Indiana also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can help with personal care, assistive technology, and transportation. To qualify for these waivers, you must meet both medical and financial criteria set by the state. [^3]
Indiana’s state disability programs, such as Short-Term and Long-Term Disability for state employees, provide income replacement for those unable to work due to illness or injury. These programs are separate from SSDI/SSI and have their own eligibility rules. [^4]
ABLE accounts let you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Indiana residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and more. [^6]
For 2025, the SGA limit for non-blind individuals is expected to be $1,530 per month, and $2,550 for blind individuals. SSI has separate income limits based on federal guidelines. [^2]
You must report any changes in income, work, or medical condition to the SSA. Failing to report can result in overpayments and penalties. Use the SSA’s online portal or call to report changes. [^6]
Contact the Indiana Disability Determination Bureau at 800-622-4968 for help with your SSDI/SSI application. Local SSA offices can also assist.
The SSA defines disability as the inability to do any substantial gainful activity due to a medically determinable impairment expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Indiana follows federal rules for SSDI/SSI eligibility. [^3]
Yes, you can work and earn up to the SGA limit without losing benefits. For 2025, this is expected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals. Work incentives help you test your ability to work. [^2]
Medicaid waivers in Indiana provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities, such as personal care and assistive technology. They help you live independently and avoid institutionalization. [^3]
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. The Indiana DDB will review your medical evidence and make a decision. [^3]
SSDI is based on work history and Social Security taxes paid. SSI is based on financial need and does not require work history. You may qualify for both. [^6]
Yes, if you qualify for SSI, you get Medicaid. After 24 months of SSDI, you get Medicare. Both provide health coverage for people with disabilities. [^6]
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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ABLE accounts let you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Indiana residents can open an account through the state’s program. [^6]
Report any changes in income, work, or medical condition to the SSA. Use the online portal or call to report changes and avoid overpayments. [^6]
Indiana offers Short-Term and Long-Term Disability for state employees, Medicaid waivers, and Vocational Rehabilitation Services for people with disabilities. [^4]
The Indiana DDB may take 6 to 8 months to decide if your condition meets the criteria for disability. Some conditions may qualify for immediate payments. [^5]
