People with Spina Bifida in Louisiana can get federal and state benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and special programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what help is available in 2025.
To get federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must have a qualifying disability that limits your ability to work. For SSDI, you need enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years) and a disability that meets Social Security’s definition [^1]. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs cover Spina Bifida if it meets the medical criteria and limits your daily activities [^1].
In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind people. If you earn less than this, you may still qualify for SSDI [^5].
Medicaid is available for people with disabilities who meet income and asset rules. Louisiana expanded Medicaid, so more people qualify [^6].
In Louisiana, people with Spina Bifida may qualify for Medicaid waivers, which help pay for home and community-based services. These waivers are for people who need long-term care but want to live at home [^6].
Louisiana also offers state-funded SNAP benefits for vulnerable groups, including the disabled, during federal government shutdowns. This means if federal SNAP stops, the state will step in to help disabled people get food [^1].
To get state disability benefits, you must meet both federal and state rules. Louisiana’s Department of Health and Office of Aging and Adult Services can help you apply and find local resources [^1].
If you are working or want to work, Louisiana’s Work Incentives Planning Assistance (WIPA) program offers free counseling to help you understand how work affects your benefits [^2].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Louisiana, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. You can save up to $18,000 per year, and the account grows tax-free. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like housing, education, and transportation [^9].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to benefit cuts or repayment demands. Report changes to Social Security, Medicaid, and SNAP as soon as possible. Keep records of all reports and communications [^9].
If the federal government shuts down, Louisiana will provide emergency SNAP benefits for vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities. This means you will still get food benefits even if federal SNAP stops [^1].
Disability Rights Louisiana offers free counseling to help you understand how work affects your benefits. Call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 for help [^2].
Yes, if your Spina Bifida limits your ability to work and you meet income and resource rules. SSI is for people with disabilities who have limited income and resources. You can apply online or at a local Social Security office [^6].
In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind people. If you earn less than this, you may still qualify for SSDI. For blind people, the limit is $2,700 [^5].
You can apply for Medicaid waivers through Louisiana’s Medicaid office. These waivers help pay for home and community-based services. There are waiting lists, so apply early. Contact your local Medicaid office for help [^6].
During a federal shutdown, Louisiana provides emergency state-funded SNAP benefits for vulnerable groups, including the disabled. This means you will still get food benefits even if federal SNAP stops [^1].
Yes, Social Security has work incentives that let you try to work while keeping your benefits. The Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility help you keep benefits if your earnings drop below the SGA limit [^5].
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. You can save up to $18,000 per year without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can open an account through Louisiana’s ABLE program [^9].
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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Report changes in income or living situation to Social Security, Medicaid, and SNAP as soon as possible. Keep records of all reports and communications to avoid overpayments [^9].
Families with children with disabilities can get help through Medicaid waivers, SNAP, FITAP, and KCSP. These programs provide cash, food, and home care services [^1].
Yes, Medicaid may cover transportation to medical appointments for people with disabilities. Contact your Medicaid provider for details [^6].
The Ticket to Work program helps people with disabilities find jobs and keep their benefits. You can get free counseling and support through this program [^2].
