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Kentucky • Chronic Illness
If you have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Kentucky, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, plus state programs for healthcare, cash, and support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what help is available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes, have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months, and meet the required work credits. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and be disabled, blind, or age 65 or older. COPD is considered a disabling condition if it severely limits your ability to work or do daily activities. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a list of medical conditions, including respiratory disorders, to determine eligibility. If your COPD is severe enough, you may qualify for benefits even if it is not on the official list, as long as it meets the SSA's definition of disability [7].
In Kentucky, having COPD may make you eligible for state programs like Medicaid, Medicaid waivers, and the Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program (K-TAP). Medicaid covers healthcare for low-income individuals, including those with disabilities. Medicaid waivers can provide extra services like home care or therapy. K-TAP offers cash assistance to families with children. If you receive disability retirement benefits from the Kentucky Public Pensions Authority, your benefits may be reduced if you also get Social Security disability or Workers' Compensation. Kentucky also allows young adults with disabilities to stay on their parents' health insurance until age 26, and sometimes beyond if the disability continues [2][4][9].
If you have COPD in Kentucky, start by checking if you qualify for SSI or SSDI. You can get free help applying from Centauri Health Solutions by calling 1-866-454-0411. Apply online at ssa.gov or healthcare.gov for health insurance. For Medicaid or K-TAP, apply through your local Department for Community Based Services office or online at benefits.ky.gov [1][2][9].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. You can use the account for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and healthcare. Kentucky offers ABLE accounts through the KY ABLE program. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one [internal_links.able_accounts].
For SSI, the maximum federal payment in 2025 is $914 per month for an individual. The SGA limit for non-blind individuals is $1,470 per month in 2024, and will likely increase in 2025. For Medicaid, income limits vary based on household size and other factors. For K-TAP, eligibility is based on income and family size [1][3][9].
If your income, work, or health changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you earn too much, work too many hours, or fail to report changes. If you get an overpayment, you may have to pay it back. Always report changes as soon as possible to keep your benefits and avoid penalties [internal_links.overpayments_and_reporting].
Call Centauri Health Solutions at 1-866-454-0411 for free help applying for SSI or SSDI. Their services are free for WellCare of Kentucky members.
Yes, if your COPD is severe enough to prevent you from working or doing daily activities, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You may also qualify for state programs like Medicaid or K-TAP. COPD is considered a disabling condition by the Social Security Administration if it meets their definition of disability [7][9].
For 2025, the maximum federal SSI payment is $914 per month for an individual. SSDI payments are based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. The amount varies by person. For 2025, SSDI benefits will increase by 2.5% due to COLA [1][3].
You will need medical records that show your COPD diagnosis, how it affects your ability to work or do daily activities, and any treatments you have received. The Social Security Administration will review your medical evidence to determine if you meet their definition of disability [7].
Yes, but there are limits. For SSDI, you can work during a Trial Work Period and still get benefits. After that, your earnings must be below the SGA limit, which is $1,470 per month in 2024 and will likely increase in 2025. For SSI, your income must be below the program limits [3][8].
You can apply for Medicaid in Kentucky through your local Department for Community Based Services office or online at benefits.ky.gov. You will need to provide proof of income and disability. Medicaid covers healthcare for low-income individuals, including those with disabilities [2][9].
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 based on financial need and is for people with limited income and resources. SSDI is based on work history and Social Security taxes paid. Both programs provide monthly payments to people who are disabled and unable to work. COPD can qualify you for either program if it meets the SSA's definition of disability [6][7].
Yes, you can apply for Medicaid or the Kentucky Health Benefit Exchange at healthcare.gov. Medicaid covers healthcare for low-income individuals, including those with disabilities. The Kentucky Health Benefit Exchange can help you find affordable health insurance plans [2].
If your disability benefits are reduced or stopped, you can appeal the decision. You must report any changes in your income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. If you get an overpayment, you may have to pay it back [internal_links.overpayments_and_reporting].
Yes, you may qualify for Medicaid waivers that provide extra services like home care, therapy, or other supports. These waivers are for people with disabilities who need extra help. Contact your local Department for Community Based Services for more information [2].
You must report any changes in your income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. Always report changes as soon as possible to keep your benefits and avoid penalties [internal_links.overpayments_and_reporting].
