If you live in Minnesota and have chronic pain that limits your ability to work, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what programs are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, your chronic pain must be severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months. You must also meet income and resource limits for SSI, or have enough work credits for SSDI. Social Security looks at how your pain affects your ability to do basic work tasks, not just the diagnosis itself. Medical records and doctor statements are important to support your claim [4].
In Minnesota, you may qualify for Medical Assistance (Medicaid) if your chronic pain limits your ability to work and your income is low. Minnesota also offers Supplemental Aid and Housing Support for people with disabilities. If you are a public safety worker (peace officer or firefighter) disabled in the line of duty, health insurance coverage is available for five years for regular duty disabilities, or until age 65 for total and permanent duty disabilities. State Patrol members are exempt from the five-year limit [1]. Recent changes to Minnesota law also affect how long health insurance is provided for duty-disabled public safety workers [1].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. In Minnesota, eligibility expanded in 2025 to people whose disability began before age 46. You can use ABLE funds for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and health care [3].
Income limits for SSI and Minnesota benefits change each year. For 2025, limits include the Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). Check DB101 Minnesota for current guidelines [3].
If your income or situation changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. This includes changes in work, living situation, or resources. Report changes to Social Security and Minnesota DHS as soon as possible [3].
Disability Hub MN offers free, expert help with benefits applications and planning. Chat, call, or email for support.
Yes, chronic pain can qualify if it is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months. You must meet Social Security’s definition of disability and provide medical evidence [4].
Medical Assistance (Medicaid) covers health care for people with low income and disabilities. Public safety workers may also get health insurance if disabled in the line of duty [1].
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. Gather medical records and work history before applying [4].
Income limits change each year. For 2025, limits include the Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). Check DB101 Minnesota for current guidelines [3].
Yes, Minnesota offers Housing Support for people with disabilities and low income. You can apply through DHS or your county office [3].
Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities. Minnesota is working to improve these programs for more choice and control [2].
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Join thousands of families who trust Purple to protect their benefits
Purple is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by OMB Bank, Member FDIC.
You can open an ABLE account if your disability began before age 46. ABLE accounts let you save money without losing benefits [3].
If your condition worsens, update your medical records and notify Social Security or Minnesota DHS. This may affect your benefits [4].
Yes, there are work incentives for SSI and SSDI recipients. You can earn some income without losing benefits. See SSI & SSDI Work Incentives for details [4].
Disability Hub MN offers free help with benefits applications and planning. You can chat, call, or email for support [5].
