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Michigan • Neurodegenerative
People with Huntington’s Disease in Michigan may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid waivers and cash assistance. Huntington’s Disease is considered a severe, progressive condition, which can help speed up the application process. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes, and have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. Huntington’s Disease is listed as a severe, progressive condition, which may qualify for fast-track approval. You generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and assets, and meet the SSA’s definition of disability. SSI does not require a work history. Both programs require thorough medical documentation of your condition and its impact on your ability to work [1][2][3][6].
In Michigan, adults with Huntington’s Disease may also qualify for the State Disability Assistance (SDA) program if they do not meet federal eligibility requirements. SDA provides cash assistance to disabled adults who are U.S. citizens or qualified legal immigrants and live in Michigan. Michigan also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can help cover costs for in-home care, respite, and other supports. These waivers are especially helpful for people with Huntington’s Disease who need long-term care but want to remain in their homes. Michigan residents may also receive a state supplement to their SSI payments, increasing their monthly benefit amount [2][4][5][8].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. In Michigan, you can open an ABLE account through the Michigan ABLE program. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses [3][9].
It’s important to report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits. Use the SSI Income Estimator to see how changes in income may affect your benefits. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact the Social Security Administration or MDHHS for help [2][4][8].
Contact the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services or a local legal services office for help with your application. They can provide free advice and help you avoid common mistakes.
Yes, if your SSDI payment is low and you meet the financial requirements for SSI, you may receive both benefits. This is called concurrent benefits. SSI can help make up the difference if your SSDI payment is below the SSI maximum [2][4].
Huntington’s Disease is considered a severe, progressive condition. It is listed in the Social Security Administration’s Compassionate Allowances program, which can speed up the application process. You must still meet all other eligibility requirements [3][6].
SDA provides cash assistance to disabled adults who do not qualify for federal disability benefits. You must be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal immigrant and live in Michigan. SDA is available to those who do not meet federal eligibility requirements [5][8].
Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services can be applied for through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. These waivers help pay for in-home care, respite, and other supports for people with disabilities who need long-term care [2][4].
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses without affecting eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. Michigan offers its own ABLE program [3][9].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for non-blind individuals is projected to be $1,530 per month in 2025. For blind individuals, it is projected to be $2,550 per month. Earning above these limits may affect your SSDI benefits [1][2][4].
The federal maximum for SSI in 2025 is $943 per month for individuals. Some Michigan residents may receive a slightly higher amount due to the state supplement [2][4].
Yes, it’s important to report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits. Use the SSI Income Estimator to see how changes in income may affect your benefits [2][4][8].
Yes, there are work incentives that allow you to earn income while keeping your benefits. The SGA limit determines how much you can earn. If you earn above the SGA limit, your benefits may be affected [1][2][4].
Michigan offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, State Disability Assistance (SDA) for cash help, and ABLE accounts for saving. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and local legal services can provide additional support [2][4][5][8].
