If you live in Kansas and have chronic pain that limits your ability to work, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide covers SSI, SSDI, Kansas Medicaid waivers, ABLE accounts, and work incentives—plus how to apply, eligibility rules, and where to get help.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, have a medical condition (like chronic pain) that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death, and meet the ‘recent work’ and ‘duration of work’ tests (often called the 20/40 rule)[7]. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources and meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability, regardless of your work history[7]. Both programs require that your chronic pain is severe enough to significantly limit your ability to perform basic work activities. You must also provide medical evidence that supports your disability claim.
In Kansas, you may also access state Medicaid programs and Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waivers, which can provide additional support for daily living and medical needs[5]. The Working Healthy program allows Kansans with disabilities to keep Medicaid coverage even if they are working and earning more than usual limits[5]. For Medicaid waivers, Kansas is working to expand participant choice and require rate parity across waiver programs by the end of 2026, which could improve options for people with chronic pain[2]. State-specific processes for waiver eligibility and services are detailed through the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) and KanCare, the state’s Medicaid program. Always check with these agencies for the latest criteria and application steps.
To apply for disability benefits in Kansas:
Applying for Federal Benefits (SSI/SSDI):
Applying for Kansas Medicaid and Waivers:
The main federal programs available to Kansans with chronic pain are:
Both SSI and SSDI require that your chronic pain is severe enough to prevent substantial work. You must provide medical evidence and complete the application process through the Social Security Administration.
Kansas offers several state-specific programs for people with disabilities, including chronic pain:
Kansas is also improving waiver flexibility, aiming to increase participant choice and rate parity across waiver programs by December 2026[2]. For the latest details, contact KanCare or the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services.
Kansans with chronic pain (or any qualifying disability) can open a Kansas ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses like medical care, housing, and transportation. Money in this account does not count against SSI or Medicaid resource limits. In 2025, Kansas is offering a $100 empowerment grant for new ABLE accounts[4]. Visit savewithable.com/ks for details.
For 2025, the federal Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit (the most you can earn and still receive SSDI) is expected to rise slightly due to cost-of-living adjustments. In 2024, the SGA was $1,470/month for non-blind individuals. The limit for SSI is lower and varies based on your living situation. Kansas Medicaid (including Working Healthy) also has income limits but allows higher earnings than standard SSI[1][5].
You must report changes in income, work status, living situation, or medical condition to Social Security and KanCare. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments, which you may have to repay. See our [Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes] guide for tips on managing this risk.
Always keep copies of your medical records and application materials. If your claim is denied, you’ll need this information for appeals.
Kansas offers a $100 empowerment grant for new ABLE accounts opened in 2025. This can help you start saving for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility[4].
Yes, through work incentives like Ticket to Work and Working Healthy, you may keep some benefits and health coverage while employed. However, earnings above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit can affect your SSDI. SSI has strict income and resource limits[1][5][6].
You can appeal the decision. The process includes reconsideration, a hearing, and further review if needed. It’s important to submit new medical evidence and meet deadlines.
Waivers provide services like personal care, home health, and therapy so you can live at home instead of a nursing facility. Eligibility depends on your needs and the specific waiver[2].
Chronic pain can be a disability if it is severe, long-lasting (12+ months), and significantly limits your ability to work. Medical proof is required for SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid[7].
An ABLE account lets Kansans with disabilities save money for qualified expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. There’s a $100 grant for new accounts in 2025[4].
Yes, Kansas Ticket to Work offers free job training, support, and placement for SSI/SSDI recipients. Contact KANSASWORKS or an Employment Service Provider for help[3][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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For Employment Support:
For Savings:
Working Healthy helps Kansans with disabilities keep Medicaid coverage while working, even if their income is above usual limits[5].
SSI/SSDI cases are reviewed periodically to confirm you still meet disability criteria. Medicaid waivers may also require regular reassessments.
Contact your local Social Security office, KanCare, or Kansas Commerce for in-person support with applications and employment services[3][5][6].
If your medical condition improves, you must report this. You may lose SSI/SSDI benefits but could qualify for work incentives, extended Medicaid, or other supports during the transition[6].
