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Louisiana • Chronic Illness
People with fibromyalgia in Louisiana may qualify for Social Security disability (SSDI/SSI), Medicaid, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs for 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition that prevents you from doing substantial work and have earned enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years)[^1]. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must meet Social Security’s definition[^2]. Fibromyalgia is considered a chronic illness and may qualify if it severely limits your ability to work for at least 12 months[^3].
SSDI and SSI both use the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold to decide if your earnings are too high. In 2025, SGA is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals[^4]. If your gross earnings are above this, you may not qualify for benefits[^4].
Louisiana does not have a separate state disability program, but residents can access Medicaid and Medicaid waivers for long-term care and support services. The Louisiana Department of Health runs the Medicaid program, which covers people with disabilities who meet income and asset limits[^5]. Louisiana also offers Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers for people with disabilities who need help living independently[^6].
If you have fibromyalgia and are working or want to work, Disability Rights Louisiana provides free benefits counseling and work incentives planning. This includes help understanding how work affects your benefits and connecting you to local resources[^7].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Louisiana residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and transportation[^13].
You must report changes in income, health, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report changes online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office[^8].
Disability Rights Louisiana offers free benefits counseling and work incentives planning for Social Security beneficiaries who want to work. Call or visit their website for help.
Yes, fibromyalgia can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it severely limits your ability to work for at least 12 months. You must provide medical evidence and meet federal eligibility rules[^1][^2].
In 2025, the federal SSI payment is $943 per month for an individual. Income limits are strict and include wages, Social Security, and other sources. Louisiana does not have a separate state supplement[^2].
You can apply online at SSA.gov or in person at a Social Security office. You will need medical records and work history. The online application is fastest and most efficient[^4].
Work incentives like the Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility let you test employment without losing benefits. Disability Rights Louisiana offers free counseling on work incentives[^7][4].
Yes, if you meet income and asset limits. Louisiana’s Medicaid program covers people with disabilities and provides health care and support services[^5].
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. If your gross earnings are above this, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI[^4].
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.
You must report changes in income, health, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Report changes online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office[^8].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Louisiana residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program[^13].
The Trial Work Period lets you test employment for up to nine months without losing SSDI benefits. You can earn any amount during this period as long as you report your work activity[^4].
After the Trial Work Period, you enter the Extended Period of Eligibility. During this 36-month period, you can receive SSDI benefits for any month your earnings fall below the SGA level[^4].
