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Michigan • Neurological/Developmental
People with intellectual disability in Michigan may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and State Disability Assistance. Eligibility depends on age, income, assets, and disability severity. This guide explains 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, have a disability that prevents work for at least 12 months, and meet the work credit requirement (usually 20 credits in the last 10 years). For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and assets, be disabled, and meet citizenship or immigration requirements. The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines disability for adults as the inability to do substantial work due to a medical condition that has lasted or is expected to last at least one year or result in death. For children, the definition is different and focuses on marked and severe functional limitations.
SSA Disability Eligibility (accessed 2025-11-06)
In Michigan, adults with intellectual disability may qualify for State Disability Assistance (SDA) if they do not receive federal disability benefits. SDA is for adults with disabilities, those 65+, or caretakers of disabled individuals. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and disability status. You must be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal immigrant and live in Michigan. SDA is not available to those receiving cash assistance from another state.
Michigan also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS) for people with intellectual disability. These waivers help pay for services like supported living, respite care, and personal care. Eligibility for waivers depends on income, assets, and disability severity.
Michigan SDA Program (accessed 2025-11-06) Michigan Medicaid Waivers (accessed 2025-11-06)
MI Bridges Portal (accessed 2025-11-06) MDHHS Office Locator (accessed 2025-11-06)
SSA Disability Programs (accessed 2025-11-06) Medicaid (accessed 2025-11-06) Medicare (accessed 2025-11-06)
Michigan SDA Program (accessed 2025-11-06) Michigan Medicaid Waivers (accessed 2025-11-06) Michigan Rehabilitation Services (accessed 2025-11-06) Michigan Works! (accessed 2025-11-06) Michigan Veterans Affairs (accessed 2025-11-06)
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. In Michigan, you can open an ABLE account through the Michigan ABLE Program. Contributions are limited to $18,000 per year, and the account can be used for expenses like education, housing, transportation, and personal support.
Michigan ABLE Program (accessed 2025-11-06)
SSI vs SSDI in Michigan (accessed 2025-11-06) 2025 Proposed Changes for SSDI (accessed 2025-11-06)
It is important to report any changes in your income, assets, or living situation to Social Security and MDHHS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands and loss of benefits. Report changes as soon as possible to ensure you receive the correct amount of benefits.
Reporting Changes (accessed 2025-11-06) Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes (accessed 2025-11-06)
Contact a Michigan Benefit-to-Work (B2W) Coach for free help with work and benefits questions. They can help you understand how disability benefits are impacted by work and guide you through the application process.
SSI is for people with limited income and assets, while SSDI is for those with a qualifying work history. Both programs provide monthly cash benefits for people with disabilities. SSI is needs-based, while SSDI is based on work credits.
Yes, if your SSDI payment is low and you meet the financial requirements for SSI, you may receive both. This is called concurrent benefits and helps make up the difference if your SSDI is below the SSI maximum.
You can apply for SDA through the MI Bridges portal or at your local MDHHS office. You will need to provide proof of disability, income, and assets. SDA is for those who do not qualify for federal disability benefits.
Medicaid waivers provide extra support for home and community-based services for people with intellectual disability. Services include supported living, respite care, and personal care. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and disability severity.
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits, but there are income limits. For SSDI, the SGA limit in 2025 is expected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals. For SSI, your income must be very limited.
An ABLE account allows you to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. You can use the account for expenses like education, housing, transportation, and personal support.
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.
You do not need a lawyer to apply, but an attorney can help you navigate the process and increase your chances of approval. Many disability attorneys work on a contingency basis.
The approval process can take several months to over a year. It depends on the complexity of your case and the backlog at Social Security and MDHHS.
Yes, children with intellectual disability may qualify for SSI or SSDI if a parent is eligible. Children must meet the SSA's definition of disability for children, which focuses on marked and severe functional limitations.
If your disability improves, you must report the change to Social Security and MDHHS. Your benefits may be reduced or stopped if you no longer meet the eligibility requirements.
