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Kentucky • Chronic Illness
If you have asthma in Kentucky, you may qualify for federal and state benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, 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 worked and paid Social Security taxes, and be unable to do any substantial work due to your disability. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must be severe enough to limit your ability to work or live independently. Both programs require medical proof of your disability, such as asthma that is severe and long-lasting. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a list of medical conditions, and asthma may be considered if it meets certain criteria for severity and duration [8].
If you are under age 65 and unable to work because of your asthma, you may qualify for these benefits. The amount of money paid through SSDI is based on your past earnings, while SSI is based on financial need [6].
In Kentucky, people with asthma may qualify for Medicaid, Medicaid waivers, and other state programs if their condition is severe enough to limit their ability to work or live independently. Kentucky also offers cash assistance programs like the Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program (K-TAP) for families with children, which can help parents find work while receiving support [9].
If you have asthma and are unable to work, you may also qualify for disability retirement benefits from the Kentucky Public Pensions Authority, but this is typically for public employees. The state does not have a separate disability benefit program for private sector workers, so most people rely on federal programs like SSI and SSDI [4].
Kentucky extends health insurance coverage for young adults with disabilities on their parents’ plan until age 26, and sometimes beyond if the disability continues [2].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. In Kentucky, you can open an ABLE account to save for qualified disability expenses, such as medical care, education, and housing. The account grows tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one in Kentucky [internal_links].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $914 per month for an individual. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you cannot earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals in 2024 and expected to increase slightly in 2025 [3]. For Medicaid, income limits vary by program and family size, but generally, you must have low income and limited resources.
If your income, employment, or medical condition changes, you must report it to the Social Security Administration and other benefit programs to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment or loss of benefits. Keep records of all changes and report them promptly to avoid problems [4].
Centauri Health Solutions offers free help with SSI/SSDI applications in Kentucky. Call or visit their website for support.
Yes, if your asthma is severe enough to limit your ability to work or live independently, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must provide medical proof of your disability and meet the SSA’s criteria for severity and duration [8].
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office. You can also get help from Centauri Health Solutions or a local disability benefits counselor [1].
You need medical records that show your asthma diagnosis, treatment, and how it limits your ability to work. This includes doctor’s notes, test results, and a detailed description of your symptoms and limitations [8].
Yes, children with severe asthma that limits their activities may qualify for SSI or Medicaid. Parents can apply for K-TAP or other family assistance programs for additional support [9].
The federal income limit for SSI in 2025 is $914 per month for an individual. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you cannot earn more than the SGA limit, which is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals in 2024 and expected to increase slightly in 2025 [3].
You can get help from Centauri Health Solutions, local disability benefits counselors, or a disability lawyer. These organizations can help you complete your application and gather the necessary medical records [1].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or over 65. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes, and are unable to work due to disability. Both programs provide monthly payments, but the eligibility criteria and payment amounts are different [6].
Yes, there are work incentives that allow you to work and keep your benefits. The Trial Work Period lets you test your ability to work without losing benefits, and the SGA limit determines how much you can earn before your benefits are affected [7].
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. You can save money for qualified disability expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one in Kentucky [internal_links].
If your income, employment, or medical condition changes, you must report it to the Social Security Administration and other benefit programs to avoid overpayments. Keep records of all changes and report them promptly to avoid problems [4].
