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Michigan • Neurological/Developmental
People with epilepsy in Michigan may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and State Disability Assistance. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key changes for 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a qualifying disability, such as epilepsy, that prevents you from working. You also need a work history and enough Social Security credits (usually 40, with 20 earned in the last 10 years)[^1]. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and assets, and meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability[^2]. Both programs require medical evidence showing your epilepsy limits your ability to work or perform daily activities[^1][^2].
In Michigan, adults with epilepsy may qualify for State Disability Assistance (SDA) if they meet income and asset limits and are unable to work due to their disability[^3]. SDA is for those who do not qualify for federal disability benefits. Michigan also pays a supplement to some SSI recipients, which can increase monthly payments[^4]. To qualify for SDA, you must be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal immigrant, live in Michigan, and not receive cash assistance from another state[^3]. Medicaid is available to most SSI recipients and some SSDI recipients with low income[^5].
ABLE accounts let people with epilepsy save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Michigan residents can open an ABLE account through the Michigan ABLE Program. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed[^9].
You must report changes in income, living situation, or medical status to Social Security and MDHHS. Failure to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. Report changes online, by phone, or in person[^7].
Contact a Michigan Benefit-to-Work Coach for free help with SSI, SSDI, and work incentives. They can answer questions and guide you through the process.
Yes, epilepsy can qualify for SSI, SSDI, and State Disability Assistance if it limits your ability to work and you meet income and asset requirements. Medical evidence is required to prove your disability.
The 2025 federal SSI maximum is $943/month for individuals. Michigan may add a supplement, so some people get more. Check with MDHHS for your exact amount.
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or apply online at ssa.gov. You will need medical records and proof of work history. A Michigan Benefit-to-Work Coach can help.
State Disability Assistance (SDA) is cash help for adults with epilepsy who do not qualify for federal disability benefits. You must meet income and asset limits and live in Michigan.
Yes, most SSI recipients and some SSDI recipients with low income qualify for Medicaid in Michigan. Medicaid covers essential health services for people with epilepsy.
The 2025 SGA limit for non-blind SSDI recipients may be $1,530/month. For blind, it may be $2,550/month. This is the most you can earn and still get SSDI.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult an expert for your specific situation.
Yes, you can work and still get SSI or SSDI, but there are income limits. The SGA limit applies to SSDI. SSI has different rules. A Benefit-to-Work Coach can help.
An ABLE account lets people with epilepsy save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. Michigan residents can open one through the Michigan ABLE Program.
Report changes in income, living situation, or medical status to Social Security and MDHHS. You can do this online, by phone, or in person to avoid overpayments.
Yes, if your SSDI payment is low and you meet SSI income and asset limits, you may get both SSI and SSDI. This is called concurrent benefits.
