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Iowa • Chronic Illness
If you have cancer in Iowa, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, Medicaid, and other support programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources for Iowans with cancer.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with cancer, you must have a condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a medical listing for cancer, which covers many types and stages. You must also meet work history requirements for SSDI or income limits for SSI. Most cancers qualify if they are advanced or cause severe symptoms that prevent work. You must provide medical records showing your diagnosis, treatment, and how cancer affects your ability to work [8].
State-specific information is limited; start here: Iowa does not have a state-run short-term disability program like California. Most people with cancer in Iowa rely on federal SSDI/SSI, Iowa Medicaid, and Medicaid waivers. To qualify for Iowa Medicaid, you must meet income and asset limits. Medicaid waivers may cover home care, transportation, and other supports for people with cancer. You must be a resident of Iowa and meet the program's medical and financial criteria. Contact the Iowa Department of Human Services for details on Medicaid and waiver programs [8].
Federal programs for people with cancer include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for people who have worked and paid into Social Security. SSI is for people with low income and assets. Both programs provide monthly cash benefits and may include Medicare or Medicaid. The SSA has a Compassionate Allowances program that speeds up approval for certain cancers. You can also get help with work incentives and return-to-work programs [8].
State-specific information is limited; start here: Iowa offers Medicaid and Medicaid waivers for people with cancer. Medicaid covers medical care, and waivers may cover home care, transportation, and other supports. Iowa also has Vocational Rehabilitation services to help people with cancer return to work. Contact the Iowa Department of Human Services for details on Medicaid and waiver programs. Iowa does not have a state-run short-term disability program like California [8].
ABLE accounts let people with cancer save money for disability-related costs without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for housing, education, transportation, and other expenses. To open an ABLE account, you must have a qualifying disability before age 26. Iowa residents can open an ABLE account through the federal ABLE program. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to apply [ABLE Accounts].
For SSI, the income limit is $914 per month for an individual in 2023. For Iowa Medicaid, the income limit is 138% of the federal poverty level. These limits may change each year. You must report all income and assets to avoid overpayments. Contact the SSA or Iowa Department of Human Services for the latest limits.
You must report changes in your condition, income, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to the SSA or Iowa Department of Human Services as soon as possible. Keep records of all reports and communications. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes [Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Contact the Iowa Department of Human Services or a disability advocate for help with your application. They can answer questions and guide you through the process.
Yes, if your cancer prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death, you may qualify for federal SSDI or SSI. You must meet work history or income limits and provide medical records.
You need records showing your diagnosis, treatment, and how cancer affects your ability to work. This includes doctor's notes, test results, and treatment plans. The SSA may request more records during the review.
It can take several months to get an initial decision. Some cancers qualify for Compassionate Allowances, which speeds up the process. Most people are initially denied and must appeal.
Yes, SSDI and SSI have work incentives that let you try working without losing benefits. You must report your earnings and follow program rules. Contact the SSA for details on work incentives.
A Medicaid waiver is a program that covers extra supports for people with cancer, like home care or transportation. You must meet medical and financial criteria to qualify. Contact the Iowa Department of Human Services for details.
You can apply online at DHS.Iowa.Gov, by phone at 1-855-333-4694, or in person at a local DHS office. You must provide proof of income, assets, and medical records.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related costs without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for housing, education, transportation, and other expenses. Iowa residents can open an account through the federal ABLE program.
Yes, you must report changes in your condition, income, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Report changes to the SSA or Iowa Department of Human Services as soon as possible.
Yes, Medicaid waivers may cover transportation for cancer treatment. Contact the Iowa Department of Human Services for details on available programs and eligibility.
If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision. Most people are initially denied and must appeal. Contact the SSA or a disability advocate for help with the appeals process.
