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Louisiana • Chronic Illness
If you have diabetes in Louisiana, you may qualify for federal and state benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, SNAP, and more. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what help is available in 2025.
To get federal disability benefits for diabetes, you must show that your condition prevents you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at your medical records, work history, and how diabetes affects your daily life. You need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years, to qualify for SSDI. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require that your diabetes meets SSA’s definition of disability and that your earnings do not exceed the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,620 per month in 2025 for non-blind individuals[5].
If you are approved, you may also qualify for Medicare after 24 months of SSDI or Medicaid if you get SSI[7].
In Louisiana, people with diabetes may qualify for Medicaid waivers that cover home and community-based services, such as personal care, transportation, and medical supplies. The state also provides emergency SNAP benefits for households with elderly, disabled, or children during federal government shutdowns. If you are disabled and have diabetes, you may be eligible for these programs if you meet income and asset limits. The Louisiana Department of Health and the Governor’s Office of Disability Affairs can help you find local resources and answer questions about eligibility[1][3][6].
Louisiana does not have a separate state disability program, but you can get help from the state if you are on SSI, SSDI, or SNAP. The state may also offer job training and support services for people with disabilities[6].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Louisiana, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. The account can be used for things like medical care, housing, education, and transportation. There are annual and lifetime contribution limits, and the funds grow tax-free[9].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly payment is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a couple. The SGA limit for SSDI is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. Medicaid and SNAP have their own income and asset limits, which vary by household size and circumstances[5][8].
You must report changes in income, work, or health to SSA and Medicaid to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes as soon as possible to keep your benefits and avoid penalties[9].
During federal government shutdowns, Louisiana provides emergency SNAP benefits for vulnerable groups, including those with disabilities. Check with the Louisiana Department of Health for updates and eligibility[1].
You can work during a Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility. If your earnings are below the SGA limit, you can keep your benefits[4].
Yes, if diabetes prevents you from working and is expected to last at least one year, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must meet SSA’s disability criteria and income limits[7].
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. If you earn more than this, you may not qualify for SSDI[5].
Contact the Louisiana Department of Health or the Governor’s Office of Disability Affairs. They can help you find waiver programs and apply for home and community-based services[6].
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. It can be used for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits[9].
During a federal shutdown, Louisiana may provide emergency SNAP benefits for vulnerable groups, including those with disabilities. Check with the Louisiana Department of Health for updates[1].
Yes, you must report changes in income, work, or health to SSA and Medicaid to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits[9].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes, you can work during a Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility. If your earnings are below the SGA limit, you can keep your benefits[4].
SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those with a work history and enough work credits[7].
You may qualify for SNAP, Medicaid, and housing assistance. Contact the Louisiana Department of Health or local agencies for help[1][6].
Contact the Governor’s Office of Disability Affairs or local community organizations for information and support services[6].
