If you have rheumatoid arthritis in Michigan, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid and the State Disability Assistance (SDA) program. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key changes for 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 work credit requirement (usually 20 credits in the last 10 years)[^1]. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and assets, be disabled, and meet citizenship requirements[^2]. Both programs consider rheumatoid arthritis a qualifying disability if it meets SSA’s medical criteria[^3].
In Michigan, you may also qualify for the State Disability Assistance (SDA) program if you are an adult with a disability, 65+, or a caretaker of a disabled person, and meet income and asset limits[^4]. SDA is for those who do not qualify for federal disability benefits. Michigan also offers Medicaid to SSI recipients and others who meet financial and medical criteria[^5]. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, you may be eligible for Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS)[^6].
Michigan offers ABLE accounts, which let people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. You can use the funds for disability-related expenses like medical care, education, and housing[^7].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to SSA or MDHHS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to repayment demands or loss of benefits[^10].
Michigan Legal Help offers free legal advice for disability benefits applications. You can also contact your local Social Security office for help with SSDI or SSI.
Yes, if your rheumatoid arthritis prevents you from working for at least 12 months and you meet the work credit requirement, you may qualify for SSDI in Michigan[^1].
The federal SSI income limit for 2025 is $943 per month for individuals. Some Michigan residents may get a small state supplement[^2].
Yes, if your SSDI payment is low and you meet the financial requirements for SSI, you may receive both benefits at the same time[^2].
SDA is a state program that provides cash assistance to adults with disabilities who do not qualify for federal disability benefits. You must meet income and asset limits[^4].
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. For SDA, apply through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services[^4].
You need medical records that show your rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis, treatment, and how it limits your ability to work. SSA may also require a consultative exam[^1].
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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Yes, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. In 2025, this is expected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals[^9].
A Medicaid waiver lets people with disabilities get services in the community instead of in institutions. You may qualify if you have rheumatoid arthritis and meet financial and medical criteria[^6].
Report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to SSA or MDHHS. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits[^10].
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Michigan offers these accounts to residents with disabilities[^7].
