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Mississippi • Chronic Illness
If you have Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) and live in Mississippi, you may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI), state Medicaid waivers, and ABLE savings accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and local programs to help you access the support you need.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis in Mississippi:
SSDI requires you have worked and paid Social Security taxes (usually 40 credits, 20 in the last 10 years), and your medical condition prevents you from working at the “substantial gainful activity” (SGA) level ($1,620/mo in 2025; $2,700 if blind)[5][8].
SSI has strict income and asset limits (generally $2,000 in assets for an individual, $4,000 for Medicaid in Mississippi) and is for people with little or no work history[3].
Both programs require your condition to be severe, expected to last at least a year or result in death, and documented by a medical professional[5].
There’s a 5-month SSDI waiting period; after 24 months, you’re eligible for Medicare[5].
Mississippi offers additional support options for people with disabilities:
Mississippi Disability Assistance Program may help if you don’t yet qualify for SSDI, providing short-term aid for those unable to work due to disability[1].
Medicaid Waiver Programs offer in-home care, medical assistance, and support services beyond standard Medicaid—helpful for chronic illnesses like ME[1].
Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) can help with employment services, assistive devices, and independent living support[1].
ABLE Accounts let you save up to $19,000 per year (2025) without affecting SSI or Medicaid—up to $100,000 for SSI, $235,000 for Medicaid[3][6].
Note: Mississippi has not published a specific ME/CFS disability policy; eligibility for state programs follows general disability guidelines. Check with MDRS for the latest.
Need help now? Follow these steps:
Step-by-step guide to applying for disability benefits and support in Mississippi:
Federal programs for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis in Mississippi:
Mississippi-specific programs for people with disabilities, including Myalgic Encephalomyelitis:
Note: Mississippi does not have a specific ME/CFS program, but these general disability programs may offer critical support. Always check with the state for the most current details.
ABLE accounts in Mississippi let you save up to $19,000 per year (2025) for qualified disability expenses, with tax-free growth. Account balances up to $100,000 do not affect SSI eligibility; up to $235,000, Medicaid is unaffected. You can use funds for housing, transportation, health, education, and more[3][6].
How to open one: Visit the MDRS website, use their online portal, or call 888-609-3469. Anyone can contribute, and some contributions may be tax-deductible. Income earned in the account is not taxed if used for qualified expenses[6].
SSI income and asset limits (2025): $2,000 for an individual, $3,000 for a couple[3]. Medicaid in Mississippi: $4,000 asset limit for most programs[3]. SSDI: No asset limit, but you cannot earn more than $1,620/month ($2,700 if blind) from work[5]. ABLE accounts can help you stay under these limits while saving for the future[3][6].
Report changes promptly to the Social Security Administration (for SSI/SSDI) and Mississippi Medicaid. If your income, living situation, or health improves, you must notify them to avoid overpayments, which you may have to repay. Use the <a href="/guides/overpayments-and-reporting">Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes</a> guide for more tips.
If you are denied for SSI/SSDI, don’t give up. Many applicants win on appeal. Consider getting help from a disability advocate or attorney and always keep detailed records of your medical history and communications with agencies.
Mississippi ABLE accounts are a powerful tool for managing your finances without losing benefits. You can save for housing, healthcare, education, and more—up to $19,000/year—while keeping your Medicaid and SSI eligibility.
Yes, you may be able to work part-time and still qualify for SSI or SSDI, as long as your earnings stay below the “substantial gainful activity” limit ($1,620/month in 2025). Special work incentives and programs can help you transition back to work without losing benefits right away.
No, Mississippi does not have a program just for ME, but people with ME may qualify for general state disability programs, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. Check with MDRS and the Division of Medicaid for the latest options.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. Money saved here does not count against SSI or Medicaid asset limits, up to certain amounts. ABLE funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as housing, transportation, and healthcare.
Medicaid waivers, also called HCBS waivers, provide extra services like in-home care, respite, and home modifications—services not usually covered by regular Medicaid. These can be especially helpful for people with chronic illnesses like ME who want to stay at home.
Processing times vary, but expect several months. There is a 5-month waiting period for SSDI. Appealing a denial can take even longer, so start your application as soon as possible and provide complete medical evidence.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Benefit programs and rules change frequently. Always check with official agencies for the most current information.
You can get help from your local Social Security office, Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS), or a disability advocate. They can help you gather documents, complete forms, and appeal if needed.
State-specific information is limited; start here: Check national nonprofits and the MDRS for possible grants or emergency assistance programs. There is no dedicated state grant for ME, but general disability resources may help.
You have the right to appeal. Many people are denied at first but win on appeal with stronger evidence. Consider contacting a disability attorney or advocate to help with your case.
Some family members, like minor children or dependent spouses, may qualify for benefits based on your SSDI record. SSI is only for the individual with the disability, not family members.
Report changes promptly by phone, online, or in writing to the Social Security Administration and the Mississippi Division of Medicaid. Keeping your information up to date helps avoid overpayments and service interruptions.
