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Louisiana • Chronic Illness
People with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis in Louisiana may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, state-funded emergency food aid, Medicaid, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To get federal disability benefits for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, you must have a severe medical condition that stops you from working and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at your medical records, age, education, and work history. If you are still working, your earnings must be below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. In 2025, SGA is $1,620 per month for most people, or $2,700 for those who are blind. If your earnings are above SGA, your claim will be denied at the initial stage. Children with disabilities may also qualify for benefits if their parent receives Social Security benefits[3][6][7].
In Louisiana, people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis may qualify for state-funded emergency food assistance if they are in a SNAP household with elderly, disabled, or children. Households with only able-bodied adults do not get this aid. The state also offers Medicaid to SSI recipients, and the Governor's Office of Disability Affairs can help with state disability issues. Louisiana does not have a separate state disability program, so federal rules apply for SSI and SSDI. The state monitors federal government shutdowns and may provide emergency aid if federal benefits are interrupted[1][4][5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can use funds for disability-related expenses. Louisiana has its own ABLE program. Learn more at the official ABLE site[internal_links].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum is $967/month for an individual or $1,450 for a couple. Not all income counts, such as food stamps or less than half of wages. Social Security also counts in-kind income like food or shelter from others[5].
Report changes in income, living situation, or work to avoid overpayments. If you get too much, you may have to pay it back. Learn how to report changes and avoid overpayments[internal_links].
If you are in a SNAP household with elderly, disabled, or children, Louisiana provides emergency food aid during federal government shutdowns. Able-bodied adults not in these households do not get this aid[1].
Yes, if your Myalgic Encephalomyelitis prevents you from working for at least 12 months and you meet income and resource limits. SSI is for low-income people with disabilities[5][3].
The maximum SSI in 2025 is $967/month for an individual or $1,450 for a couple. Not all income counts toward these limits[5].
Yes, SSI recipients in Louisiana automatically get Medicaid, which covers health care costs[5].
Yes, work incentives let you keep some benefits while earning income. In 2025, you can earn up to $1,620/month and still qualify for benefits[3][6].
You can appeal the decision. Disability Rights Louisiana offers free benefits counseling and help with appeals[2].
No, Louisiana does not have a separate state disability program. Federal rules apply for SSI and SSDI[4].
Louisiana provides emergency food aid to SNAP households with elderly, disabled, or children. Able-bodied adults not in these households do not get this aid[1].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Apply online at SSA.gov or call SSA. You will need medical records and work history. The process is the same for all states[3].
In 2025, SGA is $1,620/month for most people, or $2,700/month for those who are blind. Earnings above SGA may stop your benefits[3][6].
Yes, children may qualify for benefits if their parent receives Social Security benefits. Benefits can continue after age 18 if the child has a qualifying disability[6].
