If you have HIV/AIDS in Michigan, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid and State Disability Assistance (SDA). This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available in 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with HIV/AIDS, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means your condition must prevent you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. HIV/AIDS is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book under Section 14.11, so if your medical records show advanced symptoms, you may automatically qualify. You need to have worked and paid Social Security taxes to get SSDI. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require U.S. citizenship or qualifying immigration status.
In Michigan, people with HIV/AIDS may qualify for additional state programs. The State Disability Assistance (SDA) program provides cash help to adults with disabilities who do not qualify for federal benefits. To get SDA, you must be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal immigrant, live in Michigan, and meet income and asset limits. SDA is not available if you already receive cash assistance from another state. Michigan also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with care at home. If you are approved for SSI, you automatically qualify for Medicaid in Michigan. [^2][^4]
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) in a Michigan ABLE account. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like housing, education, and health care. Opening an account does not affect SSI or Medicaid as long as the balance is under $100,000. [^2]
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to SSA or MDHHS. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and penalties. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you get an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan. [^2][^4]
Contact a Michigan Benefit-to-Work (B2W) Coach for free help with work and benefits questions. Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842.
Yes, if your SSDI payment is low and you meet SSI’s income and asset limits, you may get both. This is called concurrent benefits. SSI can make up the difference if your SSDI is below the SSI maximum. [^2]
HIV/AIDS is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book. If your medical records show advanced symptoms, you may automatically qualify. You must prove your condition prevents you from working and will last at least 12 months. [^1]
SDA is Michigan’s cash assistance program for adults with disabilities who don’t qualify for federal benefits. You must meet income and asset limits and live in Michigan. [^4]
Yes, if you are approved for SSI in Michigan, you automatically qualify for Medicaid. Others may qualify based on income and disability. [^2]
Yes, there are work incentives. In 2025, you can earn up to $1,530/month (non-blind) without losing SSDI. SSI has different rules, but you can still work and get benefits. [^1][^2]
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can save up to $17,000/year in 2025. [^2]
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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If you get SSI, you automatically get Medicaid. Otherwise, apply online at Michigan.gov/MIBridges or through your county office. [^2]
You can appeal the decision. Keep copies of all documents and respond to any requests for more information. You may want to get help from a disability attorney. [^1][^2]
Michigan offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with care at home. There are also job training and support services through Michigan Rehabilitation Services. [^7]
Benefit amounts change each year based on the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). The SSI maximum for 2025 is $943/month for individuals. [^2]
