If you have chronic pain in Michigan, you may qualify for federal disability programs like SSDI and SSI, as well as state cash assistance and Medicaid waivers. 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 and paid Social Security taxes, and have a medical condition that prevents you from doing substantial work. For SSDI, you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines disability as the inability to do any substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to a medical condition that has lasted or is expected to last at least one year or result in death. In 2025, the SGA limit for non-blind individuals is expected to be $1,530 per month, and $2,550 for blind individuals. If your chronic pain meets these criteria, you may be eligible for SSDI. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. SSI eligibility is based on financial need and disability status. Both programs require medical documentation showing how your chronic pain limits your daily activities and ability to work. [^1][^2][^3]
In Michigan, adults with chronic pain may qualify for State Disability Assistance (SDA) if they meet the state’s definition of disability and financial requirements. SDA provides monthly cash assistance to eligible disabled adults who are not receiving other state cash aid. To qualify, you must be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal immigrant, live in Michigan, and meet income and asset limits. SDA is not available to those who are eligible for SSDI or SSI. Michigan also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help people with chronic pain live independently. These waivers may cover personal care, home modifications, and other supports. [^4][^5][^6]
The Michigan ABLE Program (MiABLE) lets people with disabilities save money for qualified expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can contribute up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit), and earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed. Michigan residents can deduct up to $5,000 (single) or $10,000 (joint) from state income taxes for MiABLE contributions. Friends and family can contribute using the Ugift® service. [^11]
For SSDI in 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is expected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,550 for blind individuals. Earning above these limits may affect your SSDI benefits. For SSI, the federal income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple, but Michigan may have different rules for SDA. [^1][^2][^3]
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report changes in income, living situation, or medical status to SSA or MDHHS promptly. Failure to report changes can result in penalties or loss of benefits. Use the SSA’s online portal or contact your caseworker to report changes. [^12]
Contact your local MDHHS office or a legal aid organization for help with your application. They can answer questions and help you gather the right documents.
Yes, chronic pain can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it severely limits your ability to work and is supported by medical evidence. You must meet SSA’s definition of disability and work or financial requirements.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both require a qualifying disability.
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. For SDA, apply online at Michigan.gov/MiAccount or at a local MDHHS office. Gather medical records and proof of income before applying.
SDA is a state program that provides monthly cash assistance to eligible disabled adults who do not qualify for SSDI or SSI. You must meet Michigan’s income and asset limits and be a resident of the state.
Yes, SSDI and SSI have work incentives that let you test employment without losing benefits. The SGA limit in 2025 is expected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals.
Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities, including personal care, home modifications, and respite care. These services help people with chronic pain live independently.
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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An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Michigan residents can deduct up to $5,000 (single) or $10,000 (joint) from state income taxes for contributions.
You need medical records from doctors, hospitals, and therapists that detail your chronic pain, treatments, and how it affects your daily life and ability to work. The SSA will review this evidence to determine eligibility.
Yes, some immigrants can get SDA if they are U.S. citizens or qualified legal immigrants and meet Michigan’s eligibility requirements. Asylees, refugees, and certain other categories may also qualify.
If your claim is denied, you can appeal within 60 days. You may need to provide more medical evidence or attend a hearing. Contact a legal aid organization for help with the appeals process.
