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Maine • Chronic Illness
Maine residents with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis can access federal disability programs like SSDI and SSI, as well as state resources for housing, independent living, and advocacy. There is no state-run disability income program, but Maine offers supportive services and work incentives for those receiving federal benefits.
If you have Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and cannot work, you may qualify for federal disability benefits. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes for at least 10 years. Your benefit amount is based on your past earnings. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for those with limited income and assets, including people who have never worked enough to qualify for SSDI. Both programs require that your condition prevents you from working for at least 12 months[1][6][7][9].
SSDI also provides Medicare after 24 months of receiving benefits. SSI recipients get Medicaid coverage in Maine[1][7].
Maine does not have a state disability income program. Instead, residents rely on federal SSDI and SSI for monthly payments. However, Maine offers several supportive services for people with disabilities, including housing assistance, independent living programs, and advocacy. For example, MaineHousing’s Section 811 PRA program provides permanent supportive housing for extremely low-income people with disabilities. The Independent Living Services Program helps people live more independently in their communities. The Disability Rights Center offers advocacy and legal support for people with disabilities[3][5].
If you are a public employee, MainePERS may offer a Disability Retirement Program if you become unable to work due to a medical condition. This is separate from federal disability programs and has its own eligibility requirements[2].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Maine residents can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE program. These accounts can be used for disability-related expenses like housing, education, and transportation[3].
SSI has strict income and asset limits. For 2025, the federal SSI income limit is $943 per month for an individual. SSDI does not have income limits, but your benefit amount is based on your past earnings. Maine does not have a state disability income program with separate limits[1][9].
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report any changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to the Social Security Administration to avoid overpayments. MaineHealth Vocational Services can help you understand how work affects your benefits[4].
Contact MaineHealth Vocational Services for free counseling on how to apply for disability benefits and how work affects your benefits[4].
The Disability Rights Center offers free advocacy and legal support for people with disabilities in Maine[3].
Yes, you can apply for federal SSDI or SSI if your Myalgic Encephalomyelitis prevents you from working for at least 12 months. Maine does not have a state disability income program, but you may qualify for supportive services like housing and independent living[1][3][5].
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for those with limited income and assets, including people who have never worked enough to qualify for SSDI. Both programs provide monthly payments and health coverage[1][7].
Start your application online at the Social Security Administration website. Gather medical records and work history. Submit your application and follow up with the Disability Determination Services in Maine[6][7].
MaineHousing’s Section 811 PRA program provides permanent supportive housing for extremely low-income people with disabilities. The Independent Living Services Program also offers housing and advocacy support[3][5].
Yes, there are work incentives that let you keep some benefits while working. MaineHealth Vocational Services offers free counseling on how work affects your SSDI or SSI benefits[4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
SSDI recipients get Medicare after 24 months. SSI recipients get Medicaid in Maine. Both programs provide health coverage for eligible individuals[1][7].
Yes, the Disability Rights Center provides advocacy, information, and legal support for people with disabilities in Maine. They can help with complaints and accessing services[3].
Yes, MainePERS offers a Disability Retirement Program for public employees who become unable to work due to a medical condition. This is separate from federal SSDI and SSI programs[2].
Report any changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to the Social Security Administration. MaineHealth Vocational Services can help you understand how changes affect your benefits[4].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Maine residents can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE program for disability-related expenses[3].
