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Michigan • Physical/Mobility
People with Multiple Sclerosis in Michigan may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid and the State Disability Assistance (SDA) program. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available in 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months, and meet the required work credits (usually 20 credits in the last 10 years) [5]. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must be disabled, have very limited income and assets, and meet citizenship or immigration requirements [2]. Both programs use the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability, which includes Multiple Sclerosis if it meets the criteria in their Blue Book listing for neurological disorders [5].
In Michigan, adults with Multiple Sclerosis may also qualify for the State Disability Assistance (SDA) program if they meet income and asset limits and are not receiving other state cash assistance [4]. SDA is for those with disabilities, those 65+, or caretakers of disabled individuals. Michigan residents receiving SSI are automatically eligible for Medicaid, which covers medical care for those with chronic conditions like Multiple Sclerosis [2]. Some Michigan residents may receive a small state supplement to their federal SSI payment [3].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. Michigan residents can open an ABLE account through the Michigan ABLE program. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and more [internal_links].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security or MDHHS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit reductions. Always report changes promptly and keep records of all communications [internal_links].
Contact a Michigan Benefit-to-Work (B2W) Coach for free help with work and benefits questions. They can guide you through the application process and explain how work affects your benefits [7].
Some Michigan residents may get a small extra payment on top of their federal SSI benefit. Ask your local MDHHS office about the state supplement [3].
Yes, if your SSDI payment is low and you meet SSI’s income and asset limits, you may receive both benefits. This is called concurrent benefits and can help cover more of your needs [2].
Multiple Sclerosis qualifies if it meets the Social Security Administration’s criteria for neurological disorders. You must provide medical evidence showing how your condition limits your ability to work [5].
SDA is a cash assistance program for disabled adults, those 65+, or caretakers of disabled individuals. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and not receiving other state cash aid [4].
Yes, SSI recipients in Michigan are automatically eligible for Medicaid, which covers medical care for those with chronic conditions like Multiple Sclerosis [2].
In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is projected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals. Earning more than this may affect your SSDI eligibility [1].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. Michigan residents can open an account through the state’s ABLE program [internal_links].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.
Gather medical records and proof of income, then apply for SSDI or SSI online, by phone, or in person. For SDA, apply through MDHHS. Consider contacting a Benefit-to-Work Coach for help [7].
You must report any changes in income or living situation to Social Security or MDHHS. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and benefit reductions [internal_links].
Yes, there are work incentives that let you test your ability to work without immediately losing benefits. The SGA limit sets how much you can earn [1].
Children with Multiple Sclerosis may qualify for benefits as a dependent. If the disability began before age 22, they may be eligible for Disabled Adult Child benefits on a parent’s record [5].
