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Louisiana • Neurodegenerative
People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Louisiana can access federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, plus state-specific support such as Medicaid waivers and emergency food assistance. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a Compassionate Allowance condition, meaning the Social Security Administration (SSA) fast-tracks applications for SSDI and SSI. Adults with ALS are eligible for SSDI if they have enough work credits. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Children with ALS may qualify for SSI if they meet medical and financial criteria. Benefits start after approval, and most people with ALS are considered disabled immediately upon diagnosis [^1].
In Louisiana, people with ALS can access Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which help with daily living and medical needs. The state also provides emergency SNAP benefits for households with elderly, disabled, or children members during federal shutdowns. ALS is considered a qualifying disability for these programs. To qualify for state Medicaid waivers, applicants must meet medical and financial criteria set by the Louisiana Department of Health. Emergency assistance is available for those who are part of vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities [^2][^3].
ABLE accounts allow people with ALS to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Louisiana offers ABLE accounts through the state’s ABLE program. Contributions are tax-free, and funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and more [^6].
SSI has strict income and asset limits. In 2025, the federal SSI limit is $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size. Work incentives may allow higher income without losing benefits [^1][^5].
Report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to benefit reductions or repayment. Use the SSI Income Estimator to check eligibility and avoid overpayments [^5].
During federal shutdowns, Louisiana provides emergency SNAP benefits to households with elderly, disabled, or children members. This includes people with ALS. Check with the Louisiana Department of Health for updates [^3].
Disability Rights Louisiana offers free benefits counseling and work incentives planning for people with ALS. Call the Ticket to Work Help Line for a referral to local services [^4].
Yes, ALS is a Compassionate Allowance condition, so Social Security fast-tracks applications for SSDI and SSI. Most people with ALS are considered disabled immediately upon diagnosis [^1].
Apply through the Louisiana Department of Health. You must meet medical and financial criteria. Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for people with ALS [^2].
Yes, Social Security offers work incentives that let you keep benefits while working. Disability Rights Louisiana provides free counseling to help you understand how work affects your benefits [^4].
During federal shutdowns, Louisiana provides emergency SNAP benefits to households with elderly, disabled, or children members. This includes people with ALS [^3].
ABLE accounts let you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Louisiana offers ABLE accounts, and contributions are tax-free [^6].
SSDI is for those with enough work credits, SSI is for those with limited income and resources. Both provide monthly cash benefits for people with ALS [^1].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current information.
Yes, children with ALS may qualify for SSI if they meet medical and financial criteria. Benefits usually stop at age 18 unless the child has a qualifying disability [^1].
Report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to Social Security. Use the SSI Income Estimator to check eligibility and avoid overpayments [^5].
Louisiana Medicaid waivers offer respite care and other support services for caregivers of people with ALS. Contact the Louisiana Department of Health for more information [^2].
Disability Rights Louisiana offers free benefits counseling and work incentives planning. Call the Ticket to Work Help Line for a referral to local services [^4].
