If you have arthritis in Mississippi, your main benefits are federal programs like SSDI and SSI. Mississippi does not have a state-run disability cash benefit program, but you may qualify for Medicaid, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
If you have arthritis that prevents you from working, you may qualify for federal disability benefits. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. To qualify, your arthritis must be severe enough to stop you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses medical evidence and work history to decide eligibility. In 2025, the monthly income limit for SSDI is $1,620, and for SSI, it is $943. Family members may also qualify for benefits based on your record [5].
Mississippi does not have a state-run disability cash benefit program. Residents must rely on federal programs like SSDI and SSI for monthly income support. However, Mississippi offers other support, such as Medicaid for healthcare, Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, and ABLE accounts for savings. The Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) provides job training and assistive device aid. If you have arthritis, you may qualify for these programs if you meet federal or state eligibility rules [1][2][3][6].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Mississippi, you can contribute up to $19,000 per year (2025). If you work, you can contribute more, up to your income or the federal poverty level. The account balance can reach $235,000. If your ABLE account goes over $100,000, SSI benefits are suspended, but Medicaid and other benefits are not affected. Use the funds for qualified disability expenses like medical care, housing, or education [6].
In 2025, the monthly income limit for SSDI is $1,620. For SSI, it is $943. If you earn more than these amounts, you may not qualify for benefits. The limits are adjusted each year for inflation. If you have arthritis and work, you may qualify for work incentives that let you keep some benefits while you try to return to work [5][4].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to the SSA. Failing to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you receive an overpayment, you may have to repay it. You can request a waiver if the overpayment was not your fault. Always keep records of your reports and payments [5].
Mississippi does not offer a state-run disability cash benefit program. Federal SSDI and SSI are your main options for monthly income support.
You may qualify for Medicaid for healthcare and an ABLE account for savings. These programs can help with arthritis-related costs without affecting your federal benefits.
Yes, if your arthritis is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for federal SSDI or SSI benefits. Mississippi does not have a state disability cash benefit program.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs can help with arthritis if you meet the medical and financial criteria.
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local SSA office. You will need medical records and work history.
No, Mississippi does not have a state-run disability cash benefit program. Residents must rely on federal programs like SSDI and SSI for monthly income support.
Yes, there are work incentives that let you try to return to work without losing all your benefits. If you earn more than the monthly limit, your benefits may be reduced or stopped.
An ABLE account is a savings account for people with disabilities. You can save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits, as long as your account balance is under $100,000.
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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You can apply for Medicaid online, by phone, or in person. Medicaid covers healthcare for low-income individuals with disabilities, including those with arthritis.
A Medicaid waiver provides home care and other services for people with disabilities. You can apply through the Mississippi Division of Medicaid or your local agency.
Yes, the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services offers financial aid for assistive devices like wheelchairs or hearing aids for people with disabilities.
If your application is denied, you can request a reconsideration or appeal. You may need to attend a hearing. It’s important to act quickly and provide more evidence.
