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Massachusetts • Chronic Illness
If you have kidney disease in Massachusetts, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what programs are available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and have a disability that stops you from working for at least 12 months. For kidney disease, the Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at your medical records, lab results, and how your condition affects your daily life. You must also meet the 20/40 work credit rule if you are under 62. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must meet SSA’s definition. Both programs require detailed medical evidence showing your kidney disease is severe enough to prevent substantial work [ssa.gov, 2025-11-06].
In Massachusetts, MassAbility Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews your application and decides if you qualify for SSDI or SSI. DDS uses medical and mental health professionals to evaluate your claim. They look at your job history, education, medical records, and any required exams. Massachusetts also pays a small state supplement to SSI recipients. If you have kidney disease, DDS will consider how your condition limits your ability to work and live independently. You may also qualify for Medicaid waivers or other state supports if you meet income and disability rules [mass.gov, 2025-11-06].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for expenses like medical care, housing, and education. In Massachusetts, the ABLEnow program lets you save up to $100,000 without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses. Opening an account is easy and can help you plan for the future [mass.gov, 2025-11-06].
You must report changes in income, living situation, or health to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes as soon as possible to avoid problems. Use the SSA website or call your local office to report changes [ssa.gov, 2025-11-06].
Contact MassAbility DDS for free help with your application. They can answer questions and guide you through the process.
If you want to try working, ask about the Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility. These let you work and keep benefits for a while.
Yes, if your kidney disease is severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months. You may qualify for SSDI or SSI based on your work history and income. MassAbility DDS will review your medical records and decide if you qualify.
In 2025, you can earn up to $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if you are blind) without losing SSDI benefits. This is called the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. If you earn more, your benefits may stop.
The maximum 2025 SSI payment is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a married couple. Massachusetts adds a small state supplement to these amounts for eligible residents.
Yes, you must report any changes in income, living situation, or health to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes as soon as possible to avoid problems.
Yes, you can try working with programs like the Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility. These let you work and keep benefits for a while, even if you earn more than the SGA limit.
You need medical records, lab results, dialysis notes, transplant records, and any other documents that show how your kidney disease affects your daily life. DDS may ask for more tests or exams.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
It can take several months to get a decision. DDS will review your case and may contact you for more information. You will get a letter with their decision.
MassAbility DDS is the state agency that reviews and decides SSDI and SSI claims in Massachusetts. They use medical and mental health professionals to evaluate your claim and decide if you qualify.
Yes, if you qualify for SSI or meet other Medicaid rules. Medicaid covers health care costs for low-income people with disabilities, including those with kidney disease.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money for expenses like medical care, housing, and education. In Massachusetts, the ABLEnow program lets you save up to $100,000 without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
