Missouri residents with cerebral palsy can access federal programs like Social Security (SSI, SSDI), state Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and state-specific benefits to help you navigate available support.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSDI or SSDI), you must have a medically documented condition—like cerebral palsy—that prevents you from working for at least 12 months[5]. SSDI requires work credits based on your employment history; SSI does not, but limits income and resources. For children (under 18), SSI is available for families with limited income and resources, and children with disabilities may receive SSI if they meet the medical and financial criteria. Adults with cerebral palsy that began before age 22 may be eligible for Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits if their parent is deceased or receives Social Security benefits[5]. You cannot earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which increases annually with inflation[1].
Missouri follows federal guidelines for SSI/SSDI, but also offers state Medicaid waivers (MO HealthNet) for people with cerebral palsy. These waivers provide home and community-based services—like personal care, therapies, and respite—for eligible individuals with disabilities who need more care than traditional Medicaid covers. Income and asset limits for Missouri Medicaid are stricter than SSI/SSDI, but the state considers disability status and medical need. MO HealthNet for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled and MO HealthNet for the Blind have specific income limits (e.g., $13,303/year for MO HealthNet ABD)[7]. Missouri does not have additional state disability benefits, but residents can combine federal and state programs for more comprehensive support.
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Missouri residents can open MO ABLE accounts—tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities (onset before age 26). Savings in these accounts do not affect eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other means-tested benefits. You can open an account online and use funds for qualified disability expenses, including healthcare, housing, transportation, and education[8].
If you receive SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid benefits, you must report changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to the Social Security Administration or Missouri DSS. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments, which must be repaid. For SSI and Medicaid, even small changes in household composition or income can affect eligibility. Always keep records and report promptly[1]. Learn more about Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes.
Missouri residents can contact the Social Security Administration or the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) for help with applications, appeals, and understanding eligibility. Disability lawyers and local advocacy groups can provide additional support, especially if your application is denied or if you have a complex case[4].
Missouri’s Medicaid HCBS waivers offer home-based services, therapies, and respite care for people with cerebral palsy, helping many avoid institutional care. Apply through DSS and provide detailed medical documentation to strengthen your waiver application.
SSI and SSDI payments will increase by about 2.5% in 2025 due to a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). This means more financial support for Missouri residents with cerebral palsy[1][2][3].
Yes, children under 18 with cerebral palsy and limited family income/resources may qualify for SSI. The application requires medical documentation of disability and proof of income limits.
The maximum federal SSI payment for a single person in Missouri is $967 per month in 2025[6].
SSDI is based on your work history and tax contributions, while SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both require meeting disability criteria. See our [SSI vs SSDI](/guides/ssi-ssdi) guide for details.
Yes, adults with cerebral palsy that began before age 22 may qualify for Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits if a parent is retired, disabled, or deceased[5].
The SGA limit for non-blind individuals is expected to be higher than $1,470/month and for blind individuals, higher than $2,460/month, adjusted for inflation[1].
Yes, Missouri offers Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers through MO HealthNet for people with disabilities, including cerebral palsy, who need more support than traditional Medicaid covers.
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, but your earnings must stay below the SGA limit. Higher earnings can reduce or end your benefits. Learn about [SSI & SSDI Work Incentives](/guides/work-incentives) to understand how work affects benefits.
A MO ABLE account lets people with disabilities (onset before age 26) save money without losing SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses[8].
If denied, you can request reconsideration, a hearing before an ALJ, and further appeals. A disability lawyer can help you prepare and submit a strong appeal[4].
You can contact the Social Security Administration, Missouri Department of Social Services, or a disability lawyer for help. Local advocacy organizations also offer support.
