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Massachusetts • Chronic Illness
People with cancer in Massachusetts may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSDI, SSI, Medicaid waivers, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available in 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months, and meet the 20/40 work credit rule (generally, 20 credits in the last 10 years) [6].
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources who have a disability, including cancer. SSI eligibility is based on financial need, not work history [6].
Both programs require a medical determination that your cancer is severe enough to prevent substantial work activity for at least 12 months [6].
In Massachusetts, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by MassAbility Disability Determination Services (DDS). DDS uses medical and mental health professionals to review your job history, education, medical records, and other information to decide if you qualify for SSDI or SSI [3].
Massachusetts also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including cancer, who need home and community-based services. These waivers help pay for services not covered by regular Medicaid, such as personal care and respite care [5].
To qualify for state-specific programs, you may need to meet additional criteria, such as income limits and residency requirements [3].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for benefits like SSI and Medicaid. In Massachusetts, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free [5].
It is important to report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to the Social Security Administration and MassAbility DDS. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments, which must be repaid. Reporting changes helps ensure you receive the correct amount of benefits and avoid penalties [3].
Report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status as soon as possible to avoid overpayments and ensure you receive the correct amount of benefits.
You may be able to work and earn income while keeping SSDI or SSI benefits. The SGA limit for 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals.
To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months, and meet the 20/40 work credit rule. Medical records and job history are required for the application [6].
You can apply for SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need to provide medical records, proof of income, and other personal information. MassAbility DDS will review your application [3].
The SGA (Substantial Gainful Activity) limit for 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above this limit may affect your SSDI benefits [2].
The maximum federal SSI payment in 2025 is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a married couple. Massachusetts also pays a small state supplement to SSI recipients [4].
Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities, including cancer. These services can include personal care, respite care, and home modifications, helping individuals live independently [5].
Yes, there are work incentives that allow some to earn income while keeping benefits. The SGA limit determines how much you can earn before benefits are affected. Accurate reporting of income is required [2].
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.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. It allows you to save for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for benefits like SSI and Medicaid [5].
Report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to the Social Security Administration and MassAbility DDS. This helps ensure you receive the correct amount of benefits and avoid overpayments [3].
Contact the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services or MassHealth to apply for a Medicaid waiver. You will need to provide medical records and other documentation to show your need for home and community-based services [5].
Support services include Medicaid waivers, MassHealth, ABLE accounts, employment support, and vocational rehabilitation. These services help with healthcare, financial support, and employment [5].
