People with short stature in Michigan may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs such as State Disability Assistance (SDA). Eligibility depends on medical severity, work history, and income. This guide explains how to apply, what benefits are available, and how to manage your case.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a disability that prevents you from doing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for at least 12 months, have a work history, and meet the Social Security Administration's (SSA) work credit requirements. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must meet SSA's definition. In 2025, the SGA limit for non-blind individuals is projected to be $1,530 per month, and for blind individuals, $2,550 per month. If your earnings exceed these limits, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits [1].
Children with disabilities may also qualify for benefits if their condition began before age 22 and meets SSA's criteria. Adults with a disability that began before age 22 may be eligible for Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits if their parent is deceased or receiving retirement or disability benefits [5].
In Michigan, adults with disabilities may qualify for State Disability Assistance (SDA), which provides cash assistance. To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal immigrant, live in Michigan, and not receive cash assistance from another state. Non-citizen adults must have permanent resident status or VAWA for five years or more, or be asylees, refugees, or certified victims of human trafficking. SDA is available to those who meet these criteria and have a qualifying disability, including short stature if it severely limits daily activities and work [3].
Michigan also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, which can provide additional support services. Eligibility for these waivers depends on income, assets, and the severity of your disability. Contact your local MDHHS office for more information on SDA and Medicaid waivers [7].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. Michigan offers ABLE accounts, which can be used for qualified disability expenses such as education, housing, and transportation. Contributions to ABLE accounts are not tax-deductible, but earnings grow tax-free [8].
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for SSDI in 2025 is projected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,550 per month for blind individuals. For SSI, the income limit is lower and varies by state. In Michigan, the SGA limit for 2026 is $1,690 per month. These limits are adjusted annually for inflation [1][2].
If your income or medical condition changes, you must report it to the SSA or MDHHS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands and may affect your benefits. Always report changes promptly and keep records of all communications [6].
Contact a Michigan Benefit-to-Work (B2W) Coach for personalized support with your application and work goals.
Yes, if short stature severely limits your ability to work and meets the Social Security Administration's definition of disability, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. Medical evidence is required to prove the severity of your condition [5].
The projected SGA limit for SSDI in 2025 is $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,550 for blind individuals. Earnings above these limits may affect your eligibility [1].
You can apply for SDA online at the MDHHS website or in person at your local MDHHS office. You will need to provide proof of disability, income, and residency [3].
SSDI is based on work history and Social Security taxes paid, while SSI is based on financial need. Both programs require a qualifying disability, but eligibility criteria differ [5].
Yes, there are work incentives that allow you to test your ability to work without immediately losing benefits. The SGA limit determines how much you can earn while still qualifying [1].
A Medicaid waiver provides additional support services for people with disabilities. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and disability severity. Contact your local MDHHS office for more information [7].
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, non-citizens with permanent resident status, VAWA, asylees, refugees, or certified victims of human trafficking may be eligible for SDA and other disability benefits in Michigan [3].
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses [8].
If your application is denied, you have 60 days to appeal. An experienced attorney can help you through the appeals process [2].
Michigan Benefit-to-Work (B2W) Coaches provide support and guidance on how work affects your benefits and help you achieve employment goals [6].
