People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Michigan may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and the State Disability Assistance Program. These programs provide monthly cash, health coverage, and other supports.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a severe medical condition that prevents substantial work. ALS is considered a Compassionate Allowances condition, meaning Social Security fast-tracks applications for people with ALS. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. For SSI, you must have limited income and assets. Both programs require U.S. citizenship or qualified non-citizen status. Children with ALS may also qualify for benefits if they meet the criteria.
In Michigan, people with ALS may qualify for the State Disability Assistance Program (SDA), which provides monthly cash assistance to adults with disabilities. SDA eligibility requires U.S. citizenship or qualified legal immigrant status, Michigan residency, and not receiving cash assistance from another state. SDA is separate from SSI and SSDI, but you may qualify for both. Michigan also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with long-term care needs. Some SSI recipients in Michigan receive a small state supplement to their federal benefit.
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. You can use the funds for disability-related expenses, such as housing, education, and transportation. Michigan residents can open an ABLE account through the Michigan ABLE program. Contributions are tax-free, and earnings grow tax-free.
Source: SSA.gov, Michigan.gov SDA
You must report changes in income, living situation, or health to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit reductions. Report changes to Social Security and MDHHS as soon as possible. Keep records of all reports and communications. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact the agency to discuss repayment options.
Contact a Benefits-to-Work Coach for free help with disability benefits and work incentives. They can answer questions and help you apply.
Yes, ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition, so Social Security fast-tracks applications for people with ALS. This means you may get a decision faster than for other disabilities.
SSI is based on financial need and does not require work history. SSDI is based on work history and Social Security tax payments. You may qualify for both if your SSDI benefit is low.
In 2025, the federal maximum SSI benefit is $943 per month for individuals. Some Michigan residents may get a small state supplement. The amount depends on your income and living situation.
Yes, there are work incentives that allow you to earn some income while keeping benefits. The SGA limit in 2025 is projected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals.
SDA is a state program that provides monthly cash assistance to adults with disabilities, including ALS. You must be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal immigrant and live in Michigan.
Yes, SSI recipients in Michigan are automatically enrolled in Medicaid, which provides health coverage for people with disabilities.
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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Yes, Michigan offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with personal care, respite care, and other long-term care needs.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. You can use the funds for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits.
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. Apply for SDA through the MI Bridges portal or your local MDHHS office.
Report the overpayment to Social Security or MDHHS as soon as possible. Keep records of all communications and discuss repayment options with the agency.
