People with Multiple Sclerosis in Minnesota can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. New 2025 laws affect health insurance for public safety workers and expand ABLE eligibility. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), you must meet Social Security’s definition of disability. This means your MS must be severe enough to stop you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need enough work credits (usually 20 in the last 10 years). For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have low income and resources. Children with MS may qualify for benefits if they are under 18 and meet the criteria. Adults with MS that began before age 22 may qualify for Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits if a parent is retired, disabled, or deceased. You cannot have substantial earnings (in 2025, more than $1,620 per month, or $2,700 if blind) [4].
In Minnesota, people with MS may qualify for state programs like Medical Assistance (Medicaid), Minnesota Supplemental Aid, and Housing Support. Eligibility is based on income and resources, and guidelines are updated yearly with the Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). People with MS who are in facilities or have urgent medical needs may qualify for expedited disability determinations for Medical Assistance. Minnesota also offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities that began before age 46, allowing tax-advantaged savings without losing means-tested benefits. Public safety workers with MS may have different health insurance rules: those with total and permanent duty disability get coverage until age 65, but regular duty disability coverage is now limited to five years for new cases after May 23, 2025 [1][2][3].
Minnesota offers ABLE accounts for people with MS whose disability began before age 46. You can save up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit) without losing SSI or Medicaid. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and transportation. Open an account at mn.ableforamerica.com [2].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple. Minnesota Supplemental Aid and Medical Assistance have higher limits, updated yearly with the Social Security COLA. Income from work, SSDI, and other sources counts toward these limits. ABLE account balances up to $100,000 do not count against SSI limits [2][4].
If your income or health changes, you must report it to Social Security and Minnesota agencies to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can be repaid in installments. Use the SSI Income Estimator tool to plan for changes. Report changes online, by phone, or in person [5].
Contact Disability Hub MN for free, expert help with benefits applications, planning, and problem-solving. They can guide you through every step.
Yes, people with MS in Minnesota can qualify for federal SSI/SSDI and state Medical Assistance, Supplemental Aid, and Housing Support if they meet income and disability criteria. ABLE accounts are also available for those whose disability began before age 46 [2][4].
Apply for SSI/SSDI at ssa.gov or your local Social Security office. Apply for Medical Assistance and Supplemental Aid at mnbenefits.mn.gov or your county office. Contact Disability Hub MN for help with applications and planning [5].
In 2025, the federal SSI income limit is $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple. Minnesota Supplemental Aid and Medical Assistance have higher limits, updated yearly with the Social Security COLA [2][4].
Yes, Social Security has work incentives that let people with MS keep benefits while working. You can earn up to $1,620/month (2025) without losing SSDI/SSI. ABLE accounts let you save without losing benefits [4].
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with MS whose disability began before age 46. You can save up to $18,000/year for qualified expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid [2].
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, Minnesota offers Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers for people with MS who need long-term care. These waivers help pay for services like home care, respite, and assistive technology [5].
Public safety workers with total and permanent duty disability get health insurance until age 65. Regular duty disability coverage is now limited to five years for new cases after May 23, 2025 [1].
Yes, if you are in a facility or have a life-threatening condition, you may qualify for expedited Medical Assistance disability determination. Hospitals can submit referrals for fast processing [2].
SSI is for people with MS who have low income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for people with MS who have enough work credits. Both provide cash and health benefits [4][5].
Report any changes in income or health to Social Security and Minnesota agencies. Use the SSI Income Estimator tool to plan for changes. Overpayments can be repaid in installments [5].
