If you have a traumatic brain injury in Mississippi, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts. These programs help with income, healthcare, and daily living support.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a severe impairment that prevents you from working for at least 12 months, and you must have earned enough work credits from recent employment. For traumatic brain injury, the Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates your medical records and work history. You must not earn more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind) in 2025 from substantial gainful activity. Family members may also qualify for dependent benefits. After approval, there is a 5-month waiting period for SSDI payments and a 24-month waiting period for Medicare, except for certain conditions like ALS or end-stage renal disease[6].
Mississippi does not offer a state disability cash benefit program. However, residents with traumatic brain injury may qualify for Medicaid waivers, which provide home and community-based services such as personal care, therapy, and support for daily living. These waivers are for those who meet medical and financial criteria. The Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) offers employment services and financial aid for assistive devices. ABLE accounts are also available for saving for disability-related expenses while keeping eligibility for public benefits[1][5][8].
ABLE accounts let you save up to $18,000 per year (2025) for qualified disability expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other public benefits. In Mississippi, you can open an ABLE account through the Mississippi ABLE Program. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, employment training, and other disability-related costs[5][8].
If your income or health changes, you must report it to the SSA and Medicaid to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits. Always keep records of all changes and communications with agencies[6].
Mississippi does not offer a state disability cash benefit program. Federal programs like SSDI and SSI are the main sources of disability income.
Medicaid waivers can provide personal care, therapy, and support for daily living for those with traumatic brain injury. Contact the Mississippi Division of Medicaid for details.
You may qualify for SSDI if you have a work history, or SSI if you have low income. Both provide monthly payments. Medicare is available after 24 months of SSDI, except for certain conditions.
No, Mississippi does not have a state disability cash benefit program. Federal programs like SSDI and SSI are the main sources of disability income.
Contact the Mississippi Division of Medicaid to learn about eligibility and application steps. Waivers provide home and community-based services for those with disabilities.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability expenses without losing eligibility for public benefits. You can use funds for education, housing, transportation, and more.
In 2025, the monthly income limit is $6,587 for individuals and $8,879 for couples. These limits apply to countable income for Medicaid eligibility.
Yes, there are work incentives that let you keep benefits while working or training. Report any changes in income to avoid overpayments.
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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There is a 5-month waiting period after approval for SSDI payments. Medicare starts after 24 months, except for certain conditions.
Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services like personal care, therapy, and support for daily living for those with disabilities.
Report changes in income, employment, or health to the SSA and Medicaid. Keep records of all communications and changes.
Yes, family members may qualify for dependent benefits under SSDI if you are approved.
