If you have heart disease in Maryland, you may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI), state cash aid, Medicaid, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs for Maryland residents.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) with heart disease, your condition must prevent you from working for at least 12 months and meet Social Security’s definition of disability. SSI is for those with low income and few assets, while SSDI requires a work history. Both programs cover chronic illnesses like heart disease if they severely limit your ability to work. Children with heart disease may also qualify for benefits if they meet the criteria.
Sources: Social Security Administration (2025-11-06)
In Maryland, adults with heart disease may qualify for Temporary Disability Assistance (TDAP) if they are low-income, disabled, and have no dependent children. TDAP provides cash benefits for up to 12 months in a 36-month period, often while waiting for federal disability approval. You must verify your disability with a medical report from a licensed practitioner.
Maryland also offers Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (EID). If you work for pay and have heart disease, you may qualify for Medicaid even if your income is high. EID does not count a spouse’s resources, retirement accounts, or savings in Independence Accounts against eligibility.
Sources: MD DHS TDAP (2025-11-06), MD Works EID (2025-11-06)
Sources: MD DHS TDAP (2025-11-06), MD Works EID (2025-11-06), Social Security (2025-11-06)
Sources: MD DHS TDAP (2025-11-06), MD Works EID (2025-11-06)
ABLE accounts let Maryland residents with heart disease save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year, and savings in Independence Accounts for EID Medicaid do not count against resource limits. Learn more about ABLE Accounts
Report changes to avoid overpayments. Learn more about reporting changes
You must report changes in income, work status, or health to SSI, SSDI, TDAP, and EID Medicaid. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and penalties. Keep records of all changes and notify agencies promptly. Learn more about avoiding overpayments
If you work with heart disease, Maryland’s EID program lets you keep Medicaid even if your income is high. You can save money in Independence Accounts without losing benefits.
Always report changes in income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. Keep records of all changes and notify agencies promptly.
Yes, if your heart disease prevents you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. Maryland also offers TDAP for short-term needs and EID Medicaid if you work for pay.
SSI and SSDI amounts vary based on income and work history. TDAP provides up to $185 per month. EID Medicaid covers medical costs but not cash benefits.
No. You can work and still get SSI or SSDI if your earnings are below the substantial gainful activity limit. EID Medicaid is for those who work for pay.
Apply for SSI/SSDI through Social Security online, by phone, or in person. Apply for TDAP at your local Social Services or online. Apply for EID Medicaid through Social Services if you work for pay.
You need a medical report from a licensed practitioner showing your heart disease and how it limits your ability to work. Social Security may request additional records.
Yes. Maryland’s EID program lets you get Medicaid if you work for pay, even with high income. Retirement accounts and Independence Accounts savings do not count against eligibility.
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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SSI/SSDI can take several months to process. TDAP may be faster if you have all documents. Apply as soon as possible.
Yes. Children with heart disease may qualify for SSI or SSDI if they meet the criteria. Adults with heart disease that began before age 22 may qualify for benefits on a parent’s record.
SSI is for those with low income and few assets. SSDI is for those with a work history and qualifying disability. Both cover heart disease if it prevents work for 12+ months. [Learn more about SSI vs SSDI](/guides/ssi-ssdi)
Yes. ABLE accounts let you save up to $18,000 per year without losing SSI or Medicaid. EID Medicaid Independence Accounts also let you save without losing benefits.
