People with diabetes in Montana may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, Medicaid, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs for diabetes management and support.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) with diabetes, your condition must prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews medical records, lab results, and how diabetes affects daily activities. You generally need 40 work credits, 20 earned in the last 10 years, for SSDI. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require proof that diabetes causes serious complications, such as vision loss, nerve damage, or kidney disease, that limit your ability to work or live independently [4].
In Montana, people with diabetes may qualify for Medicaid if their income and resources are low. The Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD) program lets people with disabilities, including diabetes, earn more income and still keep Medicaid coverage. Eligibility is based on net-countable income and a sliding fee scale. Montana also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with diabetes management at home. Contact your local Office of Public Assistance to check eligibility and apply [3].
ABLE accounts let people with diabetes save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. Montana offers ABLE accounts through the state program. You can use ABLE funds for medical care, education, housing, and more. Check eligibility and open an account at the official Montana ABLE website [ABLE Accounts].
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943/month (2025) for an individual. For Medicaid, income limits vary by program and household size. The Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program uses a sliding fee scale based on net-countable income. Contact your local Office of Public Assistance for exact limits and help with applications [3].
Report any changes in income, work, or health to Social Security and Medicaid. Not reporting changes can cause overpayments and loss of benefits. Use the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide to learn how work affects your benefits and how to avoid overpayments [Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Contact Disability Rights Montana or Montana Legal Services Association for free legal help and advocacy. They can guide you through the application process and answer your questions.
Yes, if diabetes causes serious complications that prevent you from working for at least 12 months. You must provide medical proof to Social Security and meet income/resource limits for SSI or work credits for SSDI.
Visit your local Office of Public Assistance. Bring proof of income, resources, and medical records. Ask about the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program if you work.
This program lets people with diabetes earn more income and keep Medicaid coverage. Eligibility is based on net-countable income and a sliding fee scale. Contact your local Office of Public Assistance for details.
Yes, Montana has work incentives like the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program and Social Security's Ticket to Work. These let you earn income and keep benefits while working.
Montana Medicaid covers diabetes care, supplies, medications, and some home and community-based services. Coverage varies by program, so check with your local Office of Public Assistance.
Disability Rights Montana and Montana Legal Services Association offer free legal help and advocacy for people with disabilities, including those with diabetes.
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 in income, work, or health to Social Security and Medicaid. Not reporting changes can cause overpayments and loss of benefits. Use the official reporting tools or contact your local office.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for disability-related expenses. You can use it for diabetes care, education, housing, and more. Montana offers ABLE accounts through the state program.
Some grants are available for equipment, home modifications, and disability-related services. Check with local nonprofits and the Montana Aging and Disability Resource Center for current opportunities.
Montana Disability Determination Services reviews applications and makes decisions using federal criteria. The process can take several months. Contact your local Social Security office for updates.
