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Missouri • Chronic Illness
If you have Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) in Missouri, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state health programs like MO HealthNet. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, income limits, and Missouri-specific resources to help you access the support you need.
To qualify for SSDI with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and paid FICA taxes, have a medical condition (like ME) that prevents you from working for at least 12 months, and meet the SSA’s strict definition of disability[3]. You must also have earned enough work credits—typically 20/40, meaning 20 credits in the past 10 years[3]. For SSI, you must have very low income and resources and meet the same disability standard, but work history is not required[6].
Both SSDI and SSI require that your condition is severe enough to significantly limit your ability to do basic work activities. If you can work and earn over the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit ($1,620/month in 2025 for non-blind individuals, $2,700 if blind), you generally will not qualify[7]. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews all medical evidence, so it’s important to provide complete records from your doctors, especially for a condition like ME, which can be hard to diagnose and document.
State-specific information is limited for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis; Missouri follows federal SSI and SSDI rules. However, MO HealthNet (Missouri’s Medicaid) provides health coverage to low-income residents, including those with disabilities. In 2025, the income limit for MO HealthNet for the Aged and Disabled is $13,303 per year for a single person; for the blind, it’s $15,650[4]. These programs require you to meet both income and disability criteria.
Missouri also offers Medicaid waivers (Home and Community-Based Services) that may provide additional supports for people with chronic illnesses, but specific eligibility for ME is not detailed in official state guidelines. Always check directly with the Missouri Family Support Division for the most current rules and any state-specific waivers or programs[4].
If you are under 18 or became disabled before age 22, you might qualify as a Disabled Adult Child (DAC) on a parent’s Social Security record, regardless of your own work history[3].
Start your application early—the process can take months. Gather your medical records, work history, and financial documents (for SSI). You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office[5]. For Missouri Medicaid (MO HealthNet), apply online through mydss.mo.gov or contact your local Family Support Division office[5].
Keep copies of everything you submit. If you need help, Missouri has advocacy organizations and vocational rehabilitation services that can guide you through the process.
1. Confirm Your Diagnosis: Make sure your doctor has documented your Myalgic Encephalomyelitis diagnosis and how it limits your daily activities. Detailed medical records are critical for both SSI and SSDI.
2. Gather Documents: For SSDI, collect your work history and tax records. For SSI, gather proof of income, resources, and living expenses. For MO HealthNet, have proof of income, citizenship, and Missouri residency.
3. Start Your Application:
4. Provide Medical Evidence: Submit all medical records, test results, and doctor statements. For ME, include notes on fatigue, brain fog, and physical limitations. You may need to see a Social Security doctor for an evaluation.
5. Track Your Application: Check your status online or by phone. You may get a denial at first—many people with ME need to appeal. Consider getting help from a disability advocate or attorney if your claim is denied.
6. If Approved: Report any changes in income, living situation, or health promptly to avoid overpayments[5]. Learn about work incentives if you hope to try working in the future.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For people who worked and paid Social Security taxes. Benefits are based on your earnings record and can include Medicare after two years[5]. The maximum monthly benefit in 2025 is $4,555, but most people receive less[9].
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For people with low income and resources, regardless of work history. The federal benefit rate for 2025 is about $967/month for an individual, but Missouri may supplement this for some[6]. SSI also gives access to Medicaid.
Medicare: After 24 months of SSDI, you qualify for Medicare, including hospital and medical insurance[5]. This can help cover treatments, medications, and therapies for ME.
ABLE Accounts: ABLE accounts allow you to save money for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility[8].
Work Incentives: Both SSDI and SSDI have programs to help you try working without immediately losing benefits. There are special rules for earnings during a "trial work period."
MO HealthNet: Missouri’s Medicaid program covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and some therapies for eligible people with disabilities[4]. Income limits apply—for MO HealthNet for the Aged and Disabled, the 2025 limit is $13,303 per year for a single person[4].
Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): These waivers provide home and community-based services for people who would otherwise need nursing home care. Coverage and availability vary, and there may be waiting lists. Contact the Family Support Division to learn if you qualify.
Missouri ABLE Accounts: Missouri offers ABLE accounts through the MO ABLE program, letting you save for disability expenses without losing benefits[8].
Vocational Rehabilitation Services: Missouri’s Vocational Rehabilitation program helps people with disabilities prepare for, find, and keep jobs. Services may include counseling, training, and job placement[5].
If you are on SSI, you may also qualify for additional state assistance, depending on your living situation and other factors. Check with local agencies for the latest details.
Missouri ABLE Accounts let you save up to $18,000 per year (2025) for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility[8]. Friends and family can also contribute. Funds can pay for housing, transportation, health, education, and more. ABLE account balances below $100,000 do not count against SSI resource limits. To learn more, visit the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council website.
You can open an account if your disability began before age 26. Missouri offers the MO ABLE plan, which is linked to the national ABLE program. Use these accounts to plan for your future while protecting your benefits.
SSI: In 2025, the federal income limit is about $1,967/month for an individual, but actual benefit amounts are lower[6]. Your benefit is reduced by any other income you receive.
SSDI: There is no income limit to apply, but you cannot earn over the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit ($1,620/month in 2025) while receiving benefits[7].
MO HealthNet: For MO HealthNet for the Aged and Disabled, the 2025 income limit is $13,303/year for a single person[4]. For the blind, it’s $15,650[4].
Missouri Medicaid Waivers: Income limits may vary by waiver type. Contact the Family Support Division for the most current details.
If your income, resources, living situation, or health changes, you must report it to Social Security and MO HealthNet promptly to avoid overpayments[5]. Overpayments can result in reduced benefits or even a requirement to pay money back. If you receive too much, contact the agency right away to discuss repayment plans or possible waivers.
Keeping good records and reporting changes quickly are the best ways to prevent problems. If you’re unsure what to report, ask for help from a benefits counselor or advocate.
Many people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis are denied SSDI or SSI at first. Don’t give up—you have the right to appeal. Missouri has free and low-cost legal help for disability appeals.
For ME, detailed records showing how your symptoms limit daily activities (like fatigue, post-exertional malaise, and brain fog) are crucial. Ask your doctor to document everything.
Missouri has advocates, legal aid, and vocational rehab counselors who can help you apply, appeal, or understand your benefits. You don’t have to do this alone.
Yes, but you must prove your ME limits your ability to work for at least 12 months, as with any chronic illness. Detailed medical records and statements from your doctors are essential.
Yes, but strict rules apply. For SSDI, you cannot earn over the SGA limit ($1,620/month in 2025). SSI reduces your benefit if you have other income. Special work incentives protect benefits during a trial work period—ask Social Security for details[7].
Apply online at mydss.mo.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Family Support Division office. You’ll need proof of income, disability, and Missouri residency. Processing can take weeks to months[4].
An ABLE account lets you save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can save up to $18,000/year (2025). Funds can pay for housing, food, healthcare, and more. Missouri offers the MO ABLE plan[8].
Many people are denied at first. You can appeal—ask for a reconsideration, then a hearing in front of an administrative law judge. Missouri advocates and legal aid groups can help with appeals.
Children may qualify for SSI if family income is low, or as dependents on a parent’s SSDI record. At age 18, they can apply under adult rules. Missouri Medicaid also covers eligible children[3].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Benefits and rules change often. Always check official government websites or consult a qualified professional for the most current information.
Yes, MO HealthNet (Missouri’s Medicaid) covers many medical expenses for eligible people with disabilities. Income limits apply, so check your eligibility[4].
The federal SSI benefit is about $967/month in 2025. Missouri may add a small supplement for some recipients, but amounts vary. Your actual payment depends on your income and living situation[6].
You get Medicare after 24 months on SSDI. If you have SSI, you also get Medicaid. If you have low income on SSDI, you may qualify for both[5].
Report health changes to Social Security. If you improve and can work, you may continue to receive benefits during a trial work period. If you get worse, provide updated medical evidence—it may help increase your benefits.
