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Indiana • Chronic Illness
People in Indiana with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Indiana, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes. Most adults need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require proof that your Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) is severe and expected to last at least a year or result in death [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
Indiana does not have a statewide short-term or long-term disability program for all residents, but state employees may qualify for income replacement if they cannot work due to illness or injury. The Indiana State Disability Program provides Short-Term Disability (STD) and Long-Term Disability (LTD) benefits for state workers, acting as a bridge to Social Security benefits if needed [in.gov, 2025-11-05].
For non-state employees, Indiana residents rely on federal SSDI and SSI programs. Indiana also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities who need long-term care services at home or in the community. These waivers can help cover costs for personal care, therapy, and other supports [in.gov, 2025-11-05].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Indiana residents can open an ABLE account to pay for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation. Learn more about Indiana ABLE accounts and how to apply [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to pay back. Learn how to avoid overpayments and report changes to keep your benefits [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
Contact your local Social Security office or the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration for help with your application.
Yes, if your ME is severe and prevents you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. State employees may also qualify for Indiana’s disability programs.
SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. You may qualify for both.
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. State employees should contact their employer for state disability forms.
You need a diagnosis from a doctor, test results, treatment history, and details on how ME affects your daily life and ability to work.
Yes, but you cannot earn more than the SGA limit. For 2025, this is expected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals.
Medicaid waivers help people with disabilities get long-term care services at home or in the community, such as personal care or therapy.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
The process can take several months. Social Security may ask for more information or schedule a medical exam.
Yes, SSI and Medicaid can help with basic needs. Indiana may also have other programs for people with disabilities.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money for qualified expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
Yes, you must report changes in income or living situation to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits.
