If you have rheumatoid arthritis in Minnesota, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These programs can help with income, health care, and daily living costs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSDI or SSI) with rheumatoid arthritis, your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work. For SSDI, you need enough work credits (usually 20 in the last 10 years). For SSI, your income and resources must be low. Children with rheumatoid arthritis may also qualify for benefits if their condition meets Social Security’s definition of disability. Adults whose disability began before age 22 may be eligible for benefits based on a parent’s record if the parent is retired, disabled, or deceased [3].
In Minnesota, people with rheumatoid arthritis may qualify for Medical Assistance (Medicaid), Minnesota Supplemental Aid, and Housing Support. Eligibility depends on income, resources, and disability status. The state also offers ABLE accounts for people whose disability began before age 46. Income guidelines for these programs are updated yearly to reflect Social Security’s cost-of-living adjustments. If you are a public safety worker (peace officer or firefighter) disabled in the line of duty, your health insurance benefits may be limited to five years unless you have a total and permanent disability [1][2].
Minnesota offers ABLE accounts for people whose disability began before age 46. These accounts let you save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. Contributions grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed. You can open an ABLE account through the Minnesota ABLE program or a national program [2].
Income limits for Minnesota benefits are updated yearly. For 2025, the limits reflect Social Security’s cost-of-living adjustment. For example, the SSI federal benefit rate is $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple. Minnesota Supplemental Aid and Housing Support have their own income limits, which are higher than SSI but still based on need. Check the latest guidelines at mndhs.gov or Disability Hub MN [2].
You must report changes in income, resources, or health to Social Security and Minnesota DHS. Failure to report can result in overpayments and penalties. If you receive an overpayment, you may be able to request a waiver or set up a repayment plan. Always keep records of your reports and any correspondence [4].
Disability Hub MN offers free support and guidance for people with disabilities. You can chat, call, or email the Hub for help with applications, appeals, and planning.
Yes, if your rheumatoid arthritis is severe enough to prevent you from working, you may qualify for federal SSDI or SSI. You may also qualify for Minnesota state benefits like Medical Assistance, Supplemental Aid, and Housing Support.
Apply for federal benefits at ssa.gov or your local Social Security office. For state benefits, apply through your county human services office or online at mndhs.gov. Gather medical records and proof of income before applying.
Income limits vary by program and are updated yearly. For 2025, the SSI federal benefit rate is $943/month for an individual. Minnesota Supplemental Aid and Housing Support have higher limits based on need. Check the latest guidelines at mndhs.gov or Disability Hub MN.
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits. Social Security and Minnesota have work incentives that let you keep benefits while you try to work. Report any changes in income to avoid overpayments.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. Minnesota offers ABLE accounts for people whose disability began before age 46.
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, you must report changes in income, resources, or health to Social Security and Minnesota DHS. Failure to report can result in overpayments and penalties. Always keep records of your reports.
You may qualify for Medicare after receiving SSDI for 24 months, or for Medicaid if you have low income. Minnesota also offers Medical Assistance and Housing Support for people with disabilities.
Yes, peace officers and firefighters disabled in the line of duty may qualify for health insurance benefits. For regular duty disabilities, coverage is limited to five years unless the disability is total and permanent.
Disability Hub MN offers free support and guidance for people with disabilities. You can chat, call, or email the Hub for help with applications, appeals, and planning.
If your benefits are denied, you can appeal the decision. Disability Hub MN can help you with the appeals process and provide resources for legal assistance.
