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Montana • Chronic Illness
People with HIV/AIDS in Montana can access federal and state benefits, including Social Security Disability, Medicaid, and work support programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with HIV/AIDS, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) medical criteria. HIV/AIDS is listed in SSA’s Blue Book under Section 14.11. You must have a confirmed diagnosis and meet specific clinical or laboratory findings, such as certain opportunistic infections or CD4 counts. You also need to meet work history requirements for SSDI or income/asset limits for SSI. These rules apply nationwide, including Montana [^1].
In Montana, people with HIV/AIDS may qualify for Medicaid, even if they are working, through the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD) program. Eligibility is based on income, assets, and disability status. You must have a qualifying disability (including HIV/AIDS), be employed, and meet income limits. The MWD program allows you to “buy-in” to Medicaid with a sliding fee scale based on your net-countable income. Other state programs, like developmental disabilities services and independent living, may also be available depending on your needs [^2].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Montana residents can open an ABLE account through the Montana ABLE program. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, including medical care, housing, and education [^4].
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. For Medicaid in Montana, income limits vary by program. For the MWD program, eligibility is based on net-countable income and a sliding fee scale [^2].
If your income, employment, or health changes, you must report it to Social Security and Medicaid. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Always keep records of your reports and follow up to confirm receipt [^5].
Contact your local Office of Public Assistance or Social Security office for help with applications. Independent living centers can also provide support and advocacy.
Yes, HIV/AIDS can qualify for Social Security Disability if it meets SSA’s medical criteria. You must have a confirmed diagnosis and meet specific clinical or laboratory findings. Montana also offers Medicaid and other support programs for people with HIV/AIDS [^1].
You can apply for Medicaid in Montana through your local Office of Public Assistance or online. If you are working, you may qualify for the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program, which allows you to keep Medicaid with a sliding fee scale based on income [^2].
Yes, Montana has work incentives and the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program. These programs help you keep Medicaid and other benefits while working. Report any changes in income or employment to avoid overpayments [^2].
You need a confirmed diagnosis of HIV/AIDS and medical records showing specific clinical or laboratory findings, such as opportunistic infections or CD4 counts. SSA’s Blue Book lists the required evidence for HIV/AIDS [^1].
Yes, Montana offers pre-employment transition services for youth with disabilities, including those with HIV/AIDS. These services help prepare for work and independent living [^3].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Report changes in income, employment, or health to Social Security and Medicaid. You can report online, by phone, or in person. Keep records of your reports and follow up to confirm receipt [^5].
Montana offers grants and support programs for people with disabilities, including minor home modifications. Contact the Department of Public Health and Human Services for more information [^3].
The MWD program allows people with disabilities, including HIV/AIDS, to keep Medicaid while working. Eligibility is based on income and disability status. You pay a cost-share based on a sliding fee scale [^2].
Montana residents can open an ABLE account through the Montana ABLE program. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid benefits [^4].
You can get help from Social Security offices, local Office of Public Assistance, or independent living centers. These agencies can guide you through the application process and answer questions [^2].
