If you have chronic pain in Missouri, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI, plus state programs such as Medicaid waivers and MO ABLE accounts. In 2025, expect a 2.5% cost-of-living increase and updated earnings limits.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with chronic pain, your condition must prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a strict definition of disability. You must have a medical record showing your pain is severe and limits your ability to work. For SSDI, you need enough work credits. For SSI, your income and assets must be low. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals. Earning above these amounts may affect your benefits.
In Missouri, chronic pain may qualify you for SSDI, SSI, Medicaid waivers, and MO ABLE accounts. Missouri does not have a separate state disability program, but it does offer Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS) if you meet federal and state criteria. To qualify for Medicaid waivers, you must have a qualifying disability and meet income and asset limits. Missouri also offers the MO ABLE program, which lets you save money without losing benefits. The state follows federal rules for SSI and SSDI eligibility, but local agencies can help with applications and appeals.
Step 1: Collect all medical records, including doctor notes, test results, and treatment plans for your chronic pain.
Step 2: Get a copy of your work history and pay stubs.
Step 3: Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to start your SSDI or SSI application. You can also apply online at SSA.gov.
Step 4: If you need Medicaid waivers, contact your local Family Support Division (FSD) office. They will help you apply and check your eligibility.
Step 5: For MO ABLE, go to the MO ABLE website and follow the steps to open an account.
Step 6: Report any changes in your income or health to Social Security and Medicaid to avoid overpayments.
Step 7: If your claim is denied, you can appeal. Contact a local advocate or attorney for help.
SSA: How to Apply for Disability (2025-11-06)
MO FSD: How to Apply for Medicaid (2025-11-06)
MO ABLE: How to Open an Account (2025-11-06)
SSDI: Monthly payments based on your work history. In 2025, expect a 2.5% COLA increase.
SSI: Monthly payments for low-income individuals. Also gets a 2.5% COLA in 2025.
Medicare: Health coverage after 24 months of SSDI.
Medicaid: Health coverage for low-income individuals, often paired with SSI.
Ticket to Work: Help with job training and support.
SSA: Disability Programs (2025-11-06)
SSA: Ticket to Work (2025-11-06)
Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Missouri offers waivers for home and community-based services. These can help with in-home care, therapy, and other supports for people with chronic pain.
MO ABLE Program: Lets you save up to $18,000 per year without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
Vocational Rehabilitation: Helps with job training and support if you want to work.
MO HealthNet: Missouri’s Medicaid program for low-income adults and children.
MO Medicaid Waivers (2025-11-06)
MO ABLE Program (2025-11-06)
MO Vocational Rehabilitation (2025-11-06)
MO HealthNet (2025-11-06)
The MO ABLE program lets people with chronic pain save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year. Funds can be used for housing, education, health, and more. To open an account, visit the MO ABLE website.
| Program | 1 Person | 2 People | |---|---|---| | MO HealthNet (Aged/Disabled) | $13,303 | $17,978 | | MO HealthNet (Blind) | $15,650 | $21,150 | | SSI (2025) | $943 | $1,415 | | SSDI (2025 SGA limit) | $1,620 | $1,620 |
If your income or health changes, you must report it to Social Security and Medicaid. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and penalties. Use the SSA online portal or call 1-800-772-1213 to report changes. For Medicaid, contact your local FSD office.
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or MO Protection and Advocacy at 1-800-392-8667 for help with your application.
Yes, chronic pain can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it prevents you from working for at least 12 months and meets SSA criteria. You need medical proof and may need to meet work or income requirements.
In 2025, expect a 2.5% increase due to COLA. The SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind and $2,700/month for blind individuals. SSI payments are $943/month for one person.
Medicaid waivers in Missouri help people with chronic pain get home and community-based services. These can include in-home care, therapy, and other supports not covered by regular Medicaid.
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, apply online at SSA.gov, or visit a local office. You’ll need medical records and work history.
The MO ABLE program lets people with chronic pain save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year for qualified expenses.
Yes, you can work, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. Work incentives help you keep benefits while trying to work.
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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Report changes online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local office. Report changes to Medicaid at your local FSD office.
If your claim is denied, you can appeal. Contact a local advocate or attorney for help. You have 60 days to file an appeal.
Missouri does not have a separate state disability program, but it offers Medicaid waivers, MO ABLE accounts, and vocational rehabilitation for extra support.
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, MO Protection and Advocacy at 1-800-392-8667, or your local FSD office for help with your application.
