Maine residents with arthritis can access federal disability programs like SSDI and SSI, as well as state-specific support for housing, independent living, and work incentives. There is no state-run disability program, but Maine offers targeted services for people with disabilities, including those with arthritis.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes. Arthritis must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your arthritis must meet SSA’s definition of disability. Children with arthritis may also qualify for benefits if they meet specific criteria. Both programs require medical evidence of your condition and its impact on your ability to work or function.
For more details, see our guide on SSI vs SSDI.
Maine does not have a state disability program for adults with arthritis. Instead, residents rely on federal SSDI and SSI programs. However, Maine offers targeted support for people with disabilities, including those with arthritis. For example, the Maine State Housing Authority provides permanent supportive housing for extremely low-income people with disabilities through the Section 811 PRA program. Maine also has independent living services, assistive technology programs, and vocational counseling for people with disabilities. These services can help with daily living, employment, and accessing benefits.
Source: Maine.gov, 2025-11-05 Source: MaineHousing.org, 2025-11-05 Source: MaineHealth.org, 2025-11-05
Source: SSA.gov, 2025-11-05 Source: Maine.gov, 2025-11-05
Source: SSA.gov, 2025-11-05 Source: Maine.gov, 2025-11-05 Source: MaineHealth.org, 2025-11-05 Source: MaineHousing.org, 2025-11-05
Source: SSA.gov, 2025-11-05 Source: SSA.gov, 2025-11-05
Source: Maine.gov, 2025-11-05 Source: MaineHousing.org, 2025-11-05 Source: MaineHealth.org, 2025-11-05
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. Maine residents with arthritis may qualify if their disability began before age 26. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like housing, education, and transportation.
Source: SSA.gov, 2025-11-05 Source: Maine.gov, 2025-11-05
SSI has strict income and asset limits. In 2025, the federal SSI payment is $943 per month for an individual. SSDI payments vary based on work history and earnings. Both programs have rules about what counts as income and assets.
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to the SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit reductions. Always report changes promptly to avoid issues.
Contact MaineHealth Vocational Services for free benefits counseling and help with work incentives. They can guide you through the application process and answer questions about how working affects your benefits.
Yes, if your arthritis is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for federal SSDI or SSI. Maine does not have a state disability program, but you can access other state services for people with disabilities.
Gather medical records and work history, then apply online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You can also contact MaineHousing for housing assistance and MaineHealth for vocational services.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources. Both require that your arthritis meets SSA’s definition of disability.
No, Maine does not have a state disability program. Residents with arthritis must apply for federal SSDI or SSI. However, Maine offers targeted support for people with disabilities, including housing and independent living services.
Yes, there are work incentives that allow you to return to work and keep some benefits. MaineHealth Vocational Services can help you understand how working affects your benefits.
MaineHousing offers the Section 811 PRA program, which provides permanent supportive housing for extremely low-income people with disabilities, including those with arthritis.
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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Maine’s Independent Living Services Program offers assistance with daily living, community integration, and advocacy for people with significant disabilities, including those with arthritis.
Yes, children with arthritis may qualify for SSI if they meet SSA’s definition of disability and their family has limited income and resources.
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. Maine residents with arthritis may qualify if their disability began before age 26.
If your income or living situation changes, report it to the SSA to avoid overpayments. Always report changes promptly to avoid issues with your benefits.
