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Maine • Chronic Illness
Maine does not have a state-run disability program, but people with kidney disease can qualify for federal benefits like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Maine also offers supportive housing, vocational counseling, and advocacy services for residents with disabilities.
People with kidney disease in Maine can qualify for federal disability benefits if their condition prevents them from working. The main programs are Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes but can no longer work due to their health. SSI is for people with limited income and assets, including those who have never worked or haven’t worked enough for SSDI. Both programs require a medical review to confirm that the disability meets federal standards. Approval is not automatic and may require appeals.
For more details, see the Social Security Administration’s official site1.
Maine does not have a state disability program for people with kidney disease. Instead, residents must apply for federal benefits like SSDI and SSI. Maine does offer other programs that support people with disabilities, such as the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS) Disability Retirement for public employees, supportive housing through the Section 811 PRA program, and vocational counseling services. Maine also provides advocacy and independent living services for people with disabilities. These programs can help with housing, employment, and daily living, but they do not replace federal disability payments.
For more information on Maine’s programs, see Maine.gov and MaineHousing24.
Start your application here: https://www.ssa.gov/disability[1].
For more information, see SSA.gov and Medicaid.gov1.
For more information, see Maine.gov, MaineHousing, and MainePERS247.
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI and other benefits. Maine residents with kidney disease can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. For more information, see the ABLE National Resource Center9.
SSI has strict income and asset limits. For 2023, the federal SSI limit is $914 per month for an individual and $1,371 for a couple. SSDI has no income limit, but your benefit amount is based on your work history. For more details, see SSA.gov1.
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands and loss of benefits. For more information, see the SSA’s guide on reporting changes10.
Contact MaineHealth Vocational Services or Disability Rights Maine for free help with your disability application and appeals.
Yes, you can get federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI if your kidney disease prevents you from working. Maine does not have a state disability program, so federal programs are your main option.
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. You’ll need medical records and proof of income or work history.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and assets. Both provide monthly payments and health coverage.
Yes, there are work incentives that let you keep benefits while working. MaineHealth Vocational Services can help you understand these rules.
Maine offers supportive housing through the Section 811 PRA program for extremely low-income people with disabilities, including those with kidney disease.
You can get help from MaineHealth Vocational Services, Disability Rights Maine, or a local Social Security office. These organizations offer counseling and advocacy.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.
MainePERS Disability Retirement is a benefit for public employees who become unable to work due to kidney disease. It requires a medically diagnosable condition and expected permanence.
Yes, ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI and other benefits. Maine residents can open an ABLE account.
Disability Rights Maine offers advocacy and protection for people with disabilities. They can help with applications, appeals, and understanding your rights.
You must report changes in income or living situation to the Social Security Administration to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands and loss of benefits.
