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Massachusetts • Chronic Illness
If you have HIV/AIDS in Massachusetts, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and work supports. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available in 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with HIV/AIDS, you must meet federal medical and financial criteria. The Social Security Administration (SSA) considers HIV/AIDS a disabling condition if it causes severe symptoms or complications that prevent you from working for at least 12 months. You must provide medical records showing your diagnosis, symptoms, and how HIV/AIDS limits your daily activities and ability to work. For SSI, your income and resources must also be below federal limits. For SSDI, you must have enough work credits based on your job history. Both programs require ongoing review to ensure continued eligibility.
SSA Disability Qualification (accessed 2025-11-06)
In Massachusetts, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by MassAbility Disability Determination Services (DDS). DDS reviews your medical records, job history, education, and other information to decide if you qualify for SSDI or SSI. For HIV/AIDS, DDS looks for evidence that your condition severely limits your ability to work. Massachusetts also offers a small state supplement to SSI payments, which can increase your monthly benefit. To qualify for state programs like Medicaid waivers, you must meet both federal and state criteria, including income and asset limits. DDS may request additional medical exams or information from your providers to make a decision.
MassAbility DDS (accessed 2025-11-06)
Start here: Apply for SSDI or SSI (accessed 2025-11-06)
MassAbility DDS Application (accessed 2025-11-06)
SSA Disability Application (accessed 2025-11-06)
SSA Disability Programs (accessed 2025-11-06)
Massachusetts Medicaid Waivers (accessed 2025-11-06)
Work Without Limits (accessed 2025-11-06)
ABLE Accounts (accessed 2025-11-06)
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. In Massachusetts, you can open an ABLE account to pay for qualified disability expenses, such as medical care, education, and housing. Contributions are tax-free, and earnings grow tax-free. The account does not count toward SSI or Medicaid asset limits, up to $100,000.
ABLE Accounts in Massachusetts (accessed 2025-11-06)
SSI Payment Amounts 2025 (accessed 2025-11-06)
SSDI SGA Limits 2025 (accessed 2025-11-06)
You must report changes in income, resources, living situation, or health to avoid overpayments. Failure to report changes can result in benefit suspension or repayment. Report changes to MassAbility DDS or SSA as soon as possible. Overpayments can be waived if you were not at fault and cannot afford to repay.
Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes (accessed 2025-11-06)
Contact MassAbility DDS for help with your application. They have medical and mental health professionals who can guide you through the process.
MassAbility DDS Contact (accessed 2025-11-06)
Yes, if HIV/AIDS limits your ability to work for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must provide medical evidence and meet financial criteria. Massachusetts also offers state supplements and Medicaid waivers for eligible residents.
The maximum 2025 SSI payment is $967 for an individual. Income is counted in the month it is received and includes earned, unearned, and in-kind income. The exact amount you can earn depends on your living situation and other factors.
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for 2025 is expected to increase slightly from 2024's $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals. Exceeding this limit may affect your SSDI benefits.
Yes, Massachusetts provides a small state supplement to SSI payments for eligible residents. This can increase your monthly benefit amount.
Contact MassAbility DDS or SSA to start your application. You can apply online, by phone, or in person. You will need to provide medical records, proof of income, and other documents.
You need lab results, treatment records, and doctor statements showing your HIV/AIDS diagnosis, symptoms, and how it limits your ability to work. DDS may request additional exams or information.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information and is not legal advice. Eligibility and benefits may change. Always check with official sources for the most current information.
Yes, work incentives allow you to keep benefits while working. The SGA limit determines how much you can earn before benefits are affected. Report all income changes to avoid overpayments.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both provide monthly payments for people with disabilities.
The decision time varies, but it can take several months. DDS may request additional information or exams, which can extend the process. Follow up if you have not heard back after several weeks.
If denied, you can appeal the decision. You have 60 days to file an appeal. You may need to provide additional evidence or attend a hearing.
