People with Spina Bifida in Missouri can get federal and state benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. In 2025, benefit amounts and work limits will change. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for Spina Bifida, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means your condition must stop you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For adults, you usually need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. For children, the rules are different and depend on the parent’s work record. The SSA reviews medical records and work history to decide if you qualify. In 2025, the rules for disability are the same, but payment amounts and work limits will change.
Spina Bifida is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book under neurological disorders. If your symptoms match the listing, you may qualify faster. If not, you can still qualify if your condition stops you from working.
In Missouri, people with Spina Bifida can get extra help through Medicaid waivers, MO HealthNet, and the MO ABLE program. Missouri’s Medicaid waivers help pay for services like home care, therapy, and equipment that are not covered by regular Medicaid. To get a waiver, you must meet income and disability rules. The MO ABLE program lets you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Missouri also has programs for children with disabilities, including those with Spina Bifida, who may get benefits if a parent is retired, disabled, or deceased. State rules change each year, so check with Missouri agencies for the latest limits and programs.
Step 1: Review the SSA’s disability rules for Spina Bifida. Make sure your condition meets the criteria.
Step 2: Get your medical records, including doctor notes, test results, and treatment plans.
Step 3: Fill out the SSA application online at SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to apply by phone.
Step 4: If you need Medicaid or a waiver, apply through Missouri’s Family Support Division. You can apply online or at your local office.
Step 5: If you want to open an ABLE account, visit the MO ABLE website.
Step 6: Report any changes in your income, work, or health to SSA and Missouri agencies.
Step 7: If your claim is denied, you can appeal. Ask for help from Missouri’s Protection and Advocacy Services or a local nonprofit.
MO ABLE Program (2025)
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes. In 2025, payments will rise by about 2.5%.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly payments for people with low income and resources. In 2025, payments will also rise by about 2.5%.
Medicare: Health insurance for people on SSDI after 24 months.
Medicaid: Health coverage for people with low income and disabilities. In Missouri, you can get Medicaid through MO HealthNet or a waiver.
MO HealthNet: Missouri’s Medicaid program. Covers doctor visits, hospital care, therapy, and more for people with disabilities. Income limits change each year.
Medicaid Waivers: Programs that pay for extra services like home care, therapy, and equipment. You must meet income and disability rules.
MO ABLE Program: Lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year.
Show Me Employment Project: Helps people with disabilities find jobs and keep benefits.
Vocational Rehabilitation: Helps people with disabilities prepare for work.
MO ABLE Program (2025)
The MO ABLE program lets people with Spina Bifida save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year. Funds can be used for things like housing, education, and medical care. To open an account, visit the MO ABLE website.
| Program | 2025 Income Limit (1 person) | |---------|-----------------------------| | SSI | $943/month | | SSDI | No strict limit, but work must be below SGA | | MO HealthNet | $1,692/month | | MO ABLE | $18,000/year |
If your income, work, or health changes, you must report it to SSA and Missouri agencies. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you get an overpayment, you can ask for a waiver or set up a payment plan.
Call Missouri’s Protection and Advocacy Services at 1-800-392-8667 for free help with disability benefits. You can also call SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for SSDI is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. If you earn more than this, your SSDI benefits may stop.
In 2025, SSDI and SSI payments will increase by about 2.5% due to the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). This means your monthly check will be about 2.5% higher than in 2024.
Yes, you can work and still get SSDI or SSI in Missouri, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. If you earn more, your benefits may be reduced or stopped. Missouri also has work incentives to help you keep benefits while working.
Missouri offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including Spina Bifida. These waivers pay for extra services like home care, therapy, and equipment. You must meet income and disability rules to qualify.
To apply for a MO ABLE account, visit the MO ABLE website. You must have a qualifying disability and meet the program rules. You can save up to $18,000 per year without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
If your income changes, you must report it to SSA and Missouri agencies. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Report changes online, by phone, or in person.
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, children with Spina Bifida can get SSI or SSDI if they meet the rules. Children may also get Medicaid or other state benefits. Parents should apply through SSA or Missouri agencies.
If your disability claim is denied, you can appeal. Ask for help from Missouri’s Protection and Advocacy Services or a local nonprofit. You can also appeal online or by phone through SSA.
SSI is for people with low income and resources. SSDI is for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs help people with Spina Bifida, but the rules and payment amounts are different.
You can get help from Missouri’s Family Support Division, Protection and Advocacy Services, or local nonprofits. You can also call SSA or visit their website for support.
