People with Multiple Sclerosis in Kansas can access federal and state disability benefits, including Social Security (SSI/SSDI), Medicaid waivers, ABLE accounts, and employment support. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key resources for Kansans living with MS.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months and meet work credit requirements. For SSDI, you generally need 20 work credits in the last 10 years, but younger people may qualify with fewer credits. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require that your disability meets SSA’s definition, which includes Multiple Sclerosis if it severely limits your ability to work or perform daily activities [^1].
Each year, the amount of earnings needed for credits increases slightly. For 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is expected to rise, allowing beneficiaries to earn more before benefits are affected [^2].
In Kansas, people with Multiple Sclerosis may qualify for Medicaid waivers (HCBS) if they meet functional and financial eligibility. The state is modernizing its waiver programs, including the new Community Supports Waiver and updated assessment tools, to better serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, but these changes may also impact those with physical disabilities like MS. Kansas also offers ABLE accounts for saving disability-related expenses, and employment support through programs like Ticket to Work. Eligibility for state programs often depends on income, assets, and functional need, and may require an application through KanCare or local agencies [^3][^4][^5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for qualified expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Kansas, you can open an ABLE account online. The account can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other disability-related costs. Contributions are limited each year, and there are state tax benefits for Kansas residents [^17].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Kansas may have additional limits for Medicaid and other state programs. The SGA limit for SSDI is expected to increase in 2025, allowing beneficiaries to earn more before benefits are affected [^18].
If your income, work, or health changes, you must report it to SSA and KanCare to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in benefit reductions or repayment. Keep records of all changes and report them promptly to avoid issues [^19].
In 2025, expect a 2.5% COLA increase in SSDI/SSI benefits and a higher SGA limit. Kansas is modernizing its Medicaid waiver programs for better access and flexibility.
Yes, if your MS meets SSA’s definition of disability and you meet work or income requirements for SSDI or SSI. Kansas also offers Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts for additional support.
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local SSA office. You’ll need medical and financial records for your application.
The federal SSI income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. Kansas may have additional limits for Medicaid and other state programs.
Yes, through programs like Ticket to Work. You can earn up to the SGA limit without losing benefits, and work incentives help you keep health coverage while you work.
Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for eligible people with disabilities. Kansas is modernizing these programs to improve access and flexibility.
You can open a Kansas ABLE account online. The account lets you save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
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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The SGA limit for non-blind individuals is expected to increase in 2025, allowing beneficiaries to earn more before benefits are affected. The 2024 limit was $1,470 per month.
Yes, you must report changes to SSA and KanCare to avoid overpayments. Keep records of all changes and report them promptly.
Kansas offers free employment services through Ticket to Work, including career counseling, job placement, and training for SSDI/SSI recipients ages 18-64.
The process can take several months. SSA reviews your application, may request more information, and notifies you of their decision. Appeals can take longer.
