If you have arthritis in Minnesota, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These include Social Security programs, Medicaid waivers, and support for work and daily living. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key changes in 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with arthritis, you must meet Social Security’s definition of disability. This means your arthritis must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. You need to have earned enough work credits, usually 20 in the last 10 years. Children with arthritis may qualify for benefits if their condition meets Social Security’s criteria. Adults with a disability that began before age 22 may also be eligible if their parent is retired, disabled, or deceased[4].
In Minnesota, people with arthritis may qualify for state disability programs if they meet income and asset limits. Medical Assistance (Medicaid) is available for those with low income and resources. Minnesota’s Medicaid waiver programs help people with disabilities live at home or in the community. These waivers cover services like personal care, home modifications, and therapy. Eligibility for waivers depends on your disability, income, and need for support. The Waiver Reimagine project is making it easier to access these services and giving people more control over their support plans[3].
Starting July 2025, income guidelines for Minnesota benefits like Medical Assistance and Housing Support will be updated to reflect the Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA)[2].
Public safety workers with duty disability due to arthritis may receive continued health insurance for five years, unless they have a total and permanent disability, in which case coverage continues until age 65[1].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for qualified expenses without losing benefits. In Minnesota, you can open an ABLE account if your disability began before age 46. The account can be used for things like medical care, housing, and education. Contributions are limited, but earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed[2].
Income limits for Minnesota benefits like Medical Assistance and Housing Support are updated each year. Starting July 2025, these limits will reflect the Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). Check the latest guidelines on the Minnesota Department of Human Services website for current limits[2].
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you may have to pay back the overpayment. Report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to the agency that pays your benefits. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate[5].
Disability Hub MN offers free help with benefits applications, appeals, and planning. Chat, call, or email for support Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Yes, if your arthritis is severe enough to prevent you from working and meets Social Security’s disability criteria. You may also qualify for Minnesota Medicaid or waiver programs if you meet income and disability requirements.
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local Social Security office. You will need medical records and information about your work history.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with disabilities and low income, regardless of work history. Both programs can help with arthritis if you meet the eligibility criteria.
Yes, Social Security offers work incentives that let you try working without losing benefits. You can earn a certain amount before benefits are reduced. Check the latest work incentive rules for details.
Medicaid waivers help people with arthritis live at home or in the community. They cover services like personal care, home modifications, and therapy. The Waiver Reimagine project is making it easier to access these services.
You can open an ABLE account if your disability began before age 46. Visit the Minnesota ABLE program website to apply. The account can be used for qualified disability expenses.
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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Starting 2025, health insurance for public safety workers with duty disability is limited to five years, except for total and permanent cases. Income guidelines for Minnesota benefits are updated to reflect the Social Security COLA.
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to the agency that pays your benefits. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate.
Yes, children with arthritis may qualify for SSI or SSDI if their condition meets Social Security’s criteria. They may also qualify for Minnesota Medicaid or waiver programs.
Minnesota offers Housing Support for people with disabilities who have low income. This program helps with rent and utilities. You can apply through the Department of Human Services.
