People in Michigan with mobility impairment may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid waivers and State Disability Assistance. Eligibility depends on work history, income, assets, and medical documentation. This guide explains how to apply, what benefits are available, and how to manage your benefits.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, paid Social Security taxes, and have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a strict definition of disability and requires you to meet the 20/40 work credit rule. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and assets, be disabled, and meet citizenship or immigration requirements. SSI is not based on work history. Both programs require medical documentation proving your disability limits your ability to work or perform daily activities.
For 2025, the federal SSI maximum is $943 per month for an individual. SSDI payments vary based on your earnings history.
Source: DisabilityLawGroup.com, 2025
In Michigan, people with mobility impairment may also qualify for state-specific programs. The State Disability Assistance (SDA) program provides cash assistance to adults with disabilities, caretakers, or those 65+. 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 receiving cash assistance from another state.
Michigan also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can help with personal care, assistive technology, and other supports. These waivers have their own eligibility requirements, including income and asset limits, and may require a waiting list.
Michigan residents receiving SSI are automatically eligible for Medicaid, which provides health coverage. Some may also qualify for concurrent benefits (SSI and SSDI) if their SSDI payment is low.
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other means-tested benefits. In Michigan, you can open an ABLE account to save for qualified disability expenses, such as assistive technology, housing, and education. The account has annual and lifetime contribution limits, and earnings grow tax-free.
Source: GrechLawFirm.com, 2025
Source: DisabilityLawGroup.com, 2025
It is important to report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to Social Security and MDHHS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit reductions. Keep records of all changes and communications. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact Social Security or MDHHS to discuss repayment options.
Contact a Michigan Benefit-to-Work Coach or local legal services for help with your application. They can help you understand your options, fill out forms, and appeal denials.
SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for those with limited income and assets, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical proof of disability. SSI payments are generally lower than SSDI payments.
Yes, you can work while receiving SSDI or SSI, but there are income limits. For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,530/month for non-blind individuals. Earnings above this may affect your benefits. SSI has stricter income limits.
You can apply for SDA online or at your local MDHHS office. 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 receiving cash assistance from another state.
Medicaid waivers provide extra support for home and community-based services, such as personal care and assistive technology. These waivers have their own eligibility requirements and may require a waiting list. They help people with disabilities live independently.
Yes, you may qualify for both SSI and SSDI if your SSDI payment is low and you meet the financial requirements for SSI. This is called concurrent benefits and can help make up the difference in your monthly income.
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 allows you to save money for qualified disability expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other means-tested benefits. You can use the funds for things like assistive technology, housing, and education.
Report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to Social Security and MDHHS. This helps avoid overpayments and ensures you receive the correct amount of benefits. Keep records of all changes and communications.
Michigan offers employment support through Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS), Bureau of Services for Blind Persons (BSBP), and Michigan Works! One-Stop Service Centers. These programs help with job training, assistive technology, and job placement.
You can get help from a Michigan Benefit-to-Work Coach, local legal services, or a disability attorney. These professionals can help you understand your options, fill out applications, and appeal denials.
If you are denied, you can appeal the decision. The appeals process includes several steps, such as reconsideration, a hearing, and review by the Appeals Council. You may want to seek help from a disability attorney or advocate.
