If you have a Traumatic Brain Injury in Missouri, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. In 2025, expect a 2.5% cost-of-living increase and updated earnings limits. Learn how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with a Traumatic Brain Injury, you must meet federal criteria. SSDI requires work credits and a disability that prevents substantial work. SSI is for those with limited income and resources. The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines disability as a condition that stops you from working and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. You must provide medical evidence, such as doctor reports and test results, showing your injury and its impact on daily life. The SSA reviews your application and decides if you meet the definition of disability.
In Missouri, eligibility for disability benefits is based on federal rules, but some state programs have extra requirements. For Medicaid waivers, you must have a qualifying disability and meet income and asset limits. Missouri uses the MO HealthNet program for the Aged and Disabled, which has specific income caps. As of October 1, 2025, the maximum annual income for a single person is $13,303 for MO HealthNet for the Aged and Disabled and $15,650 for MO HealthNet for the Blind. These limits may change yearly. You must also meet functional criteria, such as needing help with daily activities. Missouri also offers the MO ABLE program, which lets you save money without losing benefits if you became disabled before age 26.
The MO ABLE program lets people with disabilities save money without losing federal benefits. You must have a disability before age 26. Accounts can be used for disability-related expenses like housing, education, and transportation. There are annual and lifetime contribution limits. Missouri residents can open an account online at MO ABLE.
Missouri has specific income limits for disability benefits. As of October 1, 2025:
| Program | Single Person | Couple | | --- | --- | --- | | MO HealthNet for the Aged and Disabled | $13,303 | $17,978 | | MO HealthNet for the Blind | $15,650 | $21,150 |
These limits may change yearly. Income includes wages, SSDI, SSI, and other sources. Exceeding limits may affect eligibility.
It's important to report any changes in your income, work, or health to the SSA and MO HealthNet. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments, which you may have to repay. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. Keep records of all reports and correspondence. If you get an overpayment notice, contact the agency to discuss repayment options.
In 2025, expect a 2.5% cost-of-living increase for SSDI and SSI. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. These changes help keep benefits in line with inflation.
SSDI is for those who worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for those with limited income and resources. Both require a qualifying disability. SSDI payments are based on your work history, while SSI payments are based on need. Both get a 2.5% COLA increase in 2025.
Apply through MO HealthNet. You must prove your disability and meet income and asset limits. The process can take several weeks. Medicaid waivers help with home and community-based services like personal care and therapy.
Yes, but there are limits. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. Exceeding this may affect your benefits. Work incentives help you keep benefits while working.
The MO ABLE program lets you save money without losing federal benefits if you became disabled before age 26. Accounts can be used for disability-related expenses. There are annual and lifetime contribution limits.
As of October 1, 2025, the maximum annual income for a single person is $13,303 for MO HealthNet for the Aged and Disabled and $15,650 for MO HealthNet for the Blind. These limits may change yearly.
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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In 2025, expect a 2.5% cost-of-living increase for SSDI and SSI. This means your monthly check will rise by about 2.5%. For example, a $1,000 check will increase by $25.
You need doctor reports, test results, and treatment plans showing your injury and its impact on daily life. The SSA reviews this evidence to decide if you meet the definition of disability.
Yes, children may qualify for benefits if their parent is retired, disabled, or deceased. Adults with a disability that began before age 22 may get benefits based on a parent's record if unmarried and disabled before age 22.
Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments, which you may have to repay. Report changes promptly to avoid issues. Keep records of all reports and correspondence.
Report changes in income, work, or health promptly. Keep records of all reports and correspondence. Contact the agency if you get an overpayment notice to discuss repayment options.
