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Kentucky • Chronic Illness
If you have cancer in Kentucky, you may qualify for federal and state benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and more. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources and meet medical criteria. Cancer is often considered a qualifying disability if it is severe and expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a list called Compassionate Allowances for certain cancers, which can speed up approval. In 2025, the SSI payment is up to $914 per month for an individual, and SSDI payments vary based on your work history. Both programs require medical proof of your condition.
Source: SSA.gov, 2025-11-05 Source: SSA.gov, 2025-11-05
In Kentucky, people with cancer may also qualify for Medicaid, which covers medical care, including cancer treatment. Medicaid eligibility is based on income and resources, and having cancer can help you qualify. Kentucky also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can help with long-term care needs. If you are a young adult with cancer, you may stay on your parents' health insurance until age 26, and coverage can be extended if you have a disability. Kentucky does not have a separate state disability program, but you can get help applying for federal benefits through state-approved organizations. If you receive disability retirement from Kentucky Public Pensions Authority, your benefits may be reduced if you also get Social Security disability or Workers' Compensation.
Source: HDIUKY.org, 2025-01-01 Source: KYRET.KY.GOV, 2025-11-05
Check Eligibility: Review the federal and state eligibility rules for SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid. Cancer is often considered a qualifying disability, especially if it is severe or on the Compassionate Allowances list.
Gather Documents: Collect medical records, proof of income, and any other required documents. For SSI/SSDI, you will need proof of your disability and work history.
Apply for SSI/SSDI: You can apply online at SSA.gov or get free help from Centauri Health Solutions (1-866-454-0411). They can guide you through the process and help you submit your application.
Apply for Medicaid: Go to healthcare.gov and create an account. Answer the questions about your income and household. If you need help, call the customer service number on the site. You can also apply through your local Department for Community Based Services.
Ask About Medicaid Waivers: If you need long-term care, ask about Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. These can help with things like home health care, therapy, and support services.
Report Changes: If your income, work status, or medical condition changes, report it to the SSA and Medicaid. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits active.
Get Help: If you need help at any step, contact Centauri Health Solutions, your local Department for Community Based Services, or a disability advocate.
Source: WellCareKY.com, 2025-11-05 Source: HDIUKY.org, 2025-01-01
Source: SSA.gov, 2025-11-05 Source: SSA.gov, 2025-11-05
Source: HDIUKY.org, 2025-01-01 Source: KYRET.KY.GOV, 2025-11-05 Source: KY.DB101.ORG, 2025-11-05
An ABLE account lets people with cancer save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses, like medical care, housing, and education. In Kentucky, you can open an ABLE account through the state program. Contributions are limited, and there are tax benefits. ABLE accounts can help you save for the future while keeping your benefits.
Source: KY.DB101.ORG, 2025-11-05
For SSI in 2025, the income limit is $914 per month for an individual. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but your earnings must be below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. For Medicaid in Kentucky, the income limit is based on the Federal Poverty Level and varies by household size. You can use the SSI Income Estimator to see how your income affects your benefits.
Source: SSA.gov, 2025-11-05 Source: KY.DB101.ORG, 2025-11-05
If your income, work status, or medical condition changes, you must report it to the SSA and Medicaid. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments, which you may have to repay. Overpayments can happen if you get benefits you are not eligible for. To avoid overpayments, report changes as soon as possible. If you get an overpayment notice, contact the agency to discuss repayment options.
Centauri Health Solutions offers free help to WellCare of Kentucky members applying for SSI or SSDI. Call 1-866-454-0411 for support.
Yes, if your cancer is severe and expected to last at least 12 months or result in death, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. The Social Security Administration has a Compassionate Allowances list for certain cancers, which can speed up approval.
You can apply for Medicaid online at healthcare.gov or through your local Department for Community Based Services. Medicaid covers cancer treatment and related costs for people with low income.
In 2025, the SSI income limit is $914 per month for an individual. For SSDI, your earnings must be below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals.
Yes, you can work, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. Social Security has work incentives and a Trial Work Period to help you keep benefits while you work.
A Medicaid waiver helps people with cancer get home and community-based services, like home health care, therapy, and support services. These waivers can help with long-term care needs.
Yes, young adults with cancer can stay on their parents' health insurance until age 26. Coverage can be extended if you have a disability.
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.
An ABLE account lets people with cancer save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses, like medical care, housing, and education.
Yes, if your income, work status, or medical condition changes, you must report it to the SSA and Medicaid. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments, which you may have to repay.
Yes, you can get free help from Centauri Health Solutions (1-866-454-0411) or your local Department for Community Based Services. They can guide you through the application process.
If you get both, your disability retirement benefits from Kentucky Public Pensions Authority may be reduced if the combined income exceeds 100% of your final pay.
