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Louisiana • Chronic Illness
If you have HIV/AIDS in Louisiana, you may qualify for federal and state benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and emergency food aid. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked enough years and paid Social Security taxes. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, regardless of work history. The Social Security Administration (SSA) considers HIV/AIDS a disability if it severely limits your ability to work and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. If your earnings are above this, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI. You can apply for both programs together if you meet the rules for each 6, 7, 4.
In Louisiana, people with HIV/AIDS may qualify for state-funded emergency food assistance if they are elderly, disabled, or have children in their household. This aid is available due to the federal government shutdown and is meant to help vulnerable populations. Households with only able-bodied adults do not qualify for this state aid. Medicaid and Medicaid waivers are also available to help cover medical costs for people with HIV/AIDS. The Governor's Office of Disability Affairs can help you find resources and support. You must report any changes in your situation to avoid losing benefits or getting overpayments 1, 5, 8.
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and medical care. Louisiana offers ABLE accounts to residents with disabilities that started before age 26. You can open an account online or through a financial institution 3.
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit of $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size. You must report any changes in income to avoid overpayments 4, 3.
You must report changes in income, health, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes as soon as possible to avoid penalties. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person 8.
Due to the federal government shutdown, Louisiana is providing emergency food aid to SNAP recipients who are elderly, disabled, or have children in their household. This aid is temporary and meant to help vulnerable populations.
Yes, if you meet the eligibility rules for both programs. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked enough years. You can apply for both together if you qualify.
The SGA limit in 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. If your earnings are above this, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI. For blind individuals, the limit is $2,700 per month.
You can apply for Medicaid online through Louisiana's portal or by calling the Medicaid office. You may also qualify for Medicaid waivers that cover extra services for people with disabilities.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and medical care.
Yes, you must report changes in income, health, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Report changes as soon as possible to avoid penalties.
Louisiana offers Medicaid, Medicaid waivers, state-funded emergency food aid, and support from the Governor's Office of Disability Affairs for people with HIV/AIDS.
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 still get full benefits. After that, you can earn up to the SGA limit and still get benefits in months your earnings are below the limit.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those who have worked enough years and paid Social Security taxes. You can get both if you qualify.
You can get help from the Governor's Office of Disability Affairs, Social Security offices, or legal aid organizations. They can help you fill out forms and find resources.
If you lose your benefits, you can appeal the decision. You can also request Expedited Reinstatement if you can no longer work due to your disability.
