People with Muscular Dystrophy 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), you must meet federal medical and financial criteria. For SSDI, you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. For SSI, your income and resources must be limited. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the Blue Book to determine if your Muscular Dystrophy meets the medical criteria for disability. If your condition is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for benefits[4].
Montana does not have a separate state disability program for Muscular Dystrophy, but residents can access Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD). The MWD program allows people with disabilities to work and earn more without losing Medicaid coverage, as long as they pay a cost-share based on their net-countable income. Eligibility is determined by your local Office of Public Assistance. Montana also offers grants for home modifications and assistive equipment through the Department of Public Health and Human Services[2][3].
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 disability-related expenses, such as medical care, education, and housing[3].
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. For Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities, eligibility is based on net-countable income, with a sliding fee scale. Check with your local Office of Public Assistance for current limits[2].
Report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back. Keep records of all changes and report them promptly to the SSA or Medicaid office[6].
Contact Montana Disability Determination Services for help with your disability claim. They can guide you through the process and answer your questions.
You must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. For SSDI, you need 40 work credits, with 20 in the last 10 years. For SSI, your income and resources must be limited. The SSA uses the Blue Book to determine if your Muscular Dystrophy meets the criteria[4].
Yes, Montana’s Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program lets you work and earn more without losing Medicaid coverage. You pay a cost-share based on your income. Work incentives also help you keep SSI or SSDI while working[2].
Contact your local Office of Public Assistance. They will review your income and determine eligibility for the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program. You must have a disability and meet income requirements[2].
Yes, the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services offers grants for home modifications and assistive equipment. These grants can help you make your home more accessible and improve your quality of life[3].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for people who have worked and paid into Social Security. Both provide monthly payments, but eligibility rules are different. SSI is based on financial need, while SSDI is based on work history[4].
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 any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to the SSA or Medicaid office. Keep records of all changes and report them promptly to avoid overpayments[6].
Yes, Montana offers transportation assistance through the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services and other programs. Ask your local Office of Public Assistance about available services[3].
An ABLE account lets you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses. Montana residents can open an ABLE account through the Montana ABLE program[3].
The average time for a decision is 3 to 6 months, but it can take longer if more information is needed. You can check the status of your claim online or by calling the SSA[6].
You can appeal the decision. Contact Montana Disability Determination Services for help with the appeals process. You may need to provide additional medical evidence or attend a hearing[1].
