People with epilepsy in Missouri may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts. In 2025, benefit amounts and eligibility rules are updated, including a 2.5% cost-of-living increase and new income limits.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with epilepsy, your condition must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) criteria. For epilepsy, this means frequent seizures that are not controlled by medication and interfere with daily activities. You must also meet work and income requirements. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes, while SSI is for low-income individuals regardless of work history. The SSA reviews medical records, including seizure frequency, type, and how seizures affect your ability to work or do daily tasks. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above these amounts may affect your benefits [1].
Children with epilepsy may qualify for SSI if their family meets income limits. Adults with epilepsy that began before age 22 may be eligible for Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits if a parent is receiving Social Security benefits [4].
In Missouri, people with epilepsy may also qualify for state-specific programs. Missouri Medicaid waivers, such as the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver, provide support for people with disabilities to live independently. Eligibility for these waivers depends on income, assets, and disability severity. Missouri also offers the MO ABLE program, which allows people with epilepsy to save money without losing federal benefits. To qualify for MO ABLE, you must have a disability that began before age 26 and meet SSA criteria for disability. State income limits for Medicaid and other programs are updated annually. As of October 2025, the maximum annual income for MO HealthNet for the Aged and Disabled is $13,303 for a single person and $17,978 for a couple [5].
Missouri does not have a separate state disability program, so most people with epilepsy rely on federal SSDI and SSI, plus state Medicaid and waiver programs. Work incentives and reporting requirements are the same as federal rules.
The MO ABLE program lets people with epilepsy save money without losing federal benefits. To qualify, you must have a disability that began before age 26 and meet SSA criteria. You can save up to $17,000 per year in 2025, and the account can be used for disability-related expenses like medical care, housing, and education. Missouri does not tax ABLE account earnings, and funds do not count toward Medicaid or SSI income limits. Apply online at the MO ABLE website [7].
| Program | 1 Person | 2 People | |---|---|---| | MO HealthNet for Families | $1,692/month | $2,892/month | | MO HealthNet for Aged/Disabled | $13,303/year | $17,978/year | | SSI Federal Limit | $943/month | $1,415/month | | SSDI SGA Limit | $1,620/month | $1,620/month |
Source: Missouri Department of Social Services, Social Security Administration [5][4]
If your income, work, or medical status changes, you must report it to Social Security and Missouri agencies. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact the agency to set up a repayment plan. Missouri agencies offer help with reporting and resolving overpayments [6].
In 2025, expect a 2.5% cost-of-living increase for SSDI and SSI, and a new SGA limit of $1,620/month for non-blind individuals. Report any changes to avoid overpayments.
Yes, epilepsy can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it meets Social Security criteria. You must show frequent seizures that are not controlled by medication and interfere with daily activities. Medical records are required to prove your condition.
The maximum SSDI payment in Missouri in 2025 is about $3,917 per month, after a 2.5% cost-of-living increase. Most people receive less, based on their work history and earnings.
Contact the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to apply for Medicaid waivers. Waivers provide support for home care, personal care, and other services. There may be waiting lists, so apply early.
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. Work incentives help you keep benefits while working.
The MO ABLE program lets people with epilepsy save money without losing federal benefits. You must have a disability that began before age 26. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses.
Report changes to Social Security and Missouri agencies online, by phone, or in person. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits. Missouri agencies offer help with reporting.
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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The federal SSI income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for a single person and $1,415 for a couple. Missouri does not have a separate SSI program, so federal limits apply.
Yes, children with epilepsy may qualify for SSI if their family meets income limits. Adults with epilepsy that began before age 22 may be eligible for Disabled Adult Child benefits if a parent is receiving Social Security benefits.
SSDI is for people with epilepsy who have a work history and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for low-income people with epilepsy, regardless of work history. Both programs have different eligibility rules and payment amounts.
Contact Social Security, Missouri Protection and Advocacy Services, or your local Missouri Job Center for help with your disability application. They offer free help with forms, appeals, and work incentives.
