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Kentucky • Chronic Illness
People with HIV/AIDS in Kentucky may qualify for federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months, and meet the work credit requirements. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and be blind, disabled, or age 65 or older. HIV/AIDS is a Compassionate Allowances (CAL) condition, which means the Social Security Administration (SSA) can approve claims faster if you have a confirmed diagnosis. In 2025, the SSI federal payment limit is $914/month for an individual. SSDI payments depend on your work history and earnings record. Both programs require medical documentation of your disability[1][3][5][7].
In Kentucky, people with HIV/AIDS may qualify for SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid. SSI is for those with low income and resources, while SSDI is for those with a work history. Kentucky Medicaid covers medical care for people with HIV/AIDS, including treatment and medications. If you receive disability retirement benefits from Kentucky Public Pensions Authority, your benefits may be reduced if you also receive Social Security disability or Workers’ Compensation. Kentucky also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which may be available to people with HIV/AIDS who need long-term care[1][4][9].
ABLE Accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities. In Kentucky, you can open an ABLE account to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. The account can be used for things like medical care, education, housing, and transportation. For more information, visit the ABLE National Resource Center or contact a benefits counselor[9].
For SSI in 2025, the federal payment limit is $914/month for an individual. To qualify for SSI, you must have limited income and resources. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you must have a work history and enough Social Security credits. Kentucky Medicaid has its own income and resource limits, which vary based on your household size and circumstances[1][5][7][9].
If your income, resources, or living situation changes, you must report it to the Social Security Administration and Kentucky Medicaid. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay. For more information, see the guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes[9].
If you have HIV/AIDS, your SSI/SSDI application may be processed faster. Make sure to mention your diagnosis when you apply.
Yes, people with HIV/AIDS in Kentucky can qualify for SSI or SSDI if they meet the eligibility requirements. HIV/AIDS is a Compassionate Allowances (CAL) condition, which can speed up the approval process. SSI is for those with low income and resources, while SSDI is for those with a work history[1][5][7].
In 2025, the federal SSI payment limit is $914/month for an individual. The actual amount you receive may be less if you have other income or resources. Kentucky does not add a state supplement to SSI payments[1][5].
Yes, Kentucky Medicaid covers medical care, medications, and other services for people with HIV/AIDS. You can apply online at healthcare.gov or in person at your local Department for Community Based Services office[2][9].
Yes, you can work while getting SSI or SSDI, but there are limits on how much you can earn. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for 2025 is expected to be around $1,470/month for non-blind individuals. Work incentives can help you keep your benefits while you try to work[3][9].
A Compassionate Allowances (CAL) condition is a serious illness, like HIV/AIDS, that the Social Security Administration can approve for disability benefits faster. If you have a CAL condition, your application may be processed more quickly[1][5].
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.
Yes, you can get Medicaid if you have HIV/AIDS in Kentucky. Medicaid covers medical care, medications, and other services for people with low income, including those with disabilities. You can apply online at healthcare.gov or in person at your local Department for Community Based Services office[2][9].
SSI is for people with low income and resources who are blind, disabled, or age 65 or older. SSDI is for people with a work history who are unable to work due to disability. Both programs can provide cash assistance and health coverage[1][7][9].
Yes, you may be able to get back pay for SSDI if there is a delay between your application date and your benefits approval. The amount of back pay depends on your work history and when you became disabled[6].
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. In Kentucky, you can open an ABLE account to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility[9].
Yes, you must report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to the Social Security Administration and Kentucky Medicaid. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay[9].
