Minnesota offers a range of state and federal benefits for people with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), including Social Security disability income, MinnesotaCare and Medical Assistance (Medicaid) for healthcare, and Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. Quick, accurate access to benefits can help Minnesota families with ALS navigate medical, financial, and support needs.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), you must meet Social Security’s strict definition of disability. SSDI requires a work history and sufficient credits from past jobs. SSI is needs-based and requires limited income and resources. ALS is on the Social Security Compassionate Allowances List, so many applications are processed faster. Medicare coverage begins 24 months after qualifying for SSDI.
Minnesota expands on federal programs with Medical Assistance (Medicaid) for low-income people with ALS, regardless of age. If you qualify for SSI, you automatically become eligible for Medical Assistance. If your ALS was diagnosed before age 46, you may open a Minnesota ABLE account, letting you save for disability-related expenses without losing certain benefits. Some people in medical crisis or with life-threatening conditions (including ALS) can get expedited disability reviews from the State Medical Review Team (SMRT), helping you access benefits more quickly. If you’re a Minnesota public safety employee with ALS, you may have special disability retirement and health insurance benefits, depending on your employment and when you became disabled[1][2].
If you need support with ALS in Minnesota, start by visiting Disability Benefits 101 (DB101 Minnesota) and Disability Hub MN for planning and navigation help. Contact Social Security (ssa.gov) to apply for SSI or SSDI. For MinnesotaCare or Medical Assistance (Medicaid), contact MNsure or your local county office. If you need home-based care, ask about Medicaid HCBS waivers at your county or the Minnesota Department of Human Services.
To apply for disability benefits in Minnesota with ALS:
People with ALS in Minnesota can access:
Minnesota offers additional state-level programs and supports:
Minnesota ABLE accounts allow people with ALS to save up to $100,000 (federally set limit) without affecting SSI eligibility. Earnings grow tax-free and withdrawals for disability-related expenses are not taxed. Starting January 1, 2025, people whose disability began before age 46 can open an ABLE account—not just before age 26[2].
Minnesota’s Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare programs have income limits updated yearly. If you get SSI, you’re generally eligible for Medical Assistance. For MinnesotaCare, if your income is too high for MA but below program limits, you may still qualify for subsidized coverage. Limits factor in COLA increases and household size[2].
If your income, assets, or household changes, you must report it to Social Security or Minnesota’s Department of Human Services. Not reporting can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay. Always keep records, and review the preventing overpayments guide
Many applications for SSI and SSDI are approved much faster with an ALS diagnosis—often in weeks, not months.
Minnesota’s ABLE account program is expanding: if your ALS began before age 46, you can open an account starting January 1, 2025. This change lets more Minnesotans with ALS benefit from tax-advantaged savings[2].
If you or a loved one with ALS are in crisis, ask your hospital or county about expedited State Medical Review Team (SMRT) procedures for Medical Assistance. This can get your health coverage and waivers approved faster[2].
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person. ALS is a Compassionate Allowance, so your application may be reviewed faster. Approval can also make you eligible for state Medical Assistance (Medicaid).
Yes. Minnesota ABLE accounts let you save for disability expenses. Starting January 1, 2025, people whose disability began before age 46 can open an account, not just before age 26[2].
ALS is a life-threatening condition. If you meet other urgent criteria—such as being hospitalized—you may qualify for expedited Minnesota State Medical Review Team (SMRT) review[2].
Medical Assistance (MA) and MinnesotaCare cover doctor visits, hospitals, medicines, and some home care for eligible Minnesotans with ALS. You may also qualify for a Medicaid HCBS waiver for in-home support.
Minnesota and Social Security have work incentives to help you keep benefits while working (see SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide). Update your income and report changes to avoid overpayments.
Minnesota law (299A.465) requires cities to continue employer-paid health insurance for up to five years for certain employees with ALS (unless you have total and permanent disability, then up to age 65)[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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Disability Hub MN and DB101 Minnesota offer free, expert planning and navigation support. You can also get help from local nonprofits and the ALS Association.
Yes, income limits apply and are updated yearly with a COLA. If you receive SSI, you qualify for MA. MinnesotaCare has higher income limits for people who earn too much for MA.
Yes, Medicaid HCBS waivers cover personal care, respite, and adaptive equipment so you can stay at home. Contact your county or the Department of Human Services for details.
Review the notice immediately, gather your documents, and contact the agency. You may need to repay overpaid benefits, but you can request a waiver or a payment plan.
