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New Hampshire • Chronic Illness
If you have cancer and live in New Hampshire, you may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI), NH Medicaid or Medicaid waiver programs, and ABLE accounts to help with living expenses—each with its own eligibility rules and application process. This guide explains how to access these benefits and resources in your state.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) with cancer, your condition must prevent you from working at a substantial gainful activity (SGA) level for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death, based on strict Social Security rules[5]. SSDI requires enough work credits (40, with 20 in last 10 years for most under age 62), while SSI is for people with limited income and assets, regardless of work history[5]. Partial or short-term disability does not qualify[5].
New Hampshire has its own Medicaid and Medicaid waiver (Home and Community Based Services) rules for people with disabilities, including cancer[1]. For nursing home or waiver programs, your monthly income must generally stay under $2,901 for a single person, with an asset limit of $2,500 (though a $7,500 disregard applies, meaning you can have up to $7,500 and still qualify)[1]. Regular Medicaid for older adults or those needing help with daily activities has lower income limits ($981/month for a single person, $1,500 asset limit)[1]. Starting in 2026, some NH Medicaid enrollees—including those with cancer—will pay monthly premiums and higher prescription copays, depending on income[4].
To get started, review eligibility for SSI, SSDI, and NH Medicaid (see above). Collect your medical records, work history (for SSDI), and financial information (for SSI/Medicaid). Apply for SSI/SSDI online at ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. For NH Medicaid, apply online through NH Medicaid or visit a local office. Be prepared for possible denials and appeals, especially for SSI/SSDI[2][3].
For SSI/SSDI:
For NH Medicaid:
For ABLE accounts:
The main federal programs are Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both require you to meet Social Security's strict disability rules for cancer[5]. SSDI is based on your work history, while SSI is for people with limited income and assets. Benefits may include monthly cash payments and, in some cases, Medicare (SSDI) or Medicaid (SSI). There is no separate federal cancer benefit—you must qualify under the general disability rules[5].
New Hampshire offers Medicaid for low-income residents and those with disabilities, including cancer[1]. Benefits may include doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, home health aides, medical equipment, and sometimes long-term care in a facility or at home[1]. Medicaid waivers (Home and Community Based Services) provide extra support to help people stay in their homes rather than move to a nursing home[1]. Starting in July 2026, some Medicaid enrollees will pay monthly premiums and higher prescription copays, depending on income, which may affect people with cancer[4]. NH does not have a state disability program—only SSI and SSDI are available[2].
ABLE accounts let you save up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit) for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or certain other benefits. You must have become disabled before age 26 to open an ABLE account. This is a key tool for people with cancer managing long-term costs.
For SSI, the federal benefit rate is $943 per month (2025) for an individual, but NH supplements may be available. SSDI payments depend on your earnings history, not income limits. For Medicaid in NH, single applicants typically must have income under $2,901/month for long-term care or waiver programs, and under $981/month for regular Medicaid[1]. Asset limits are $2,500 for most programs[1].
Making more than your program allows, or not reporting income or asset changes, can lead to overpayments you may have to pay back. Always report changes in your income, assets, living situation, or medical condition promptly. Social Security and Medicaid require regular reviews. Keeping records and reporting accurately helps avoid problems and ensures you get the right benefits.
New Hampshire’s SSI/SSDI approval rates at the initial application and hearing stages are higher than the national average—but denials are still common. Be ready to appeal and gather strong medical evidence to improve your chances[3].
Starting July 2026, some New Hampshire Medicaid enrollees—including those with cancer—will pay monthly premiums and higher prescription copays, depending on income. If you’re on Medicaid, plan ahead for these changes[4].
No, NH has no state disability program—only federal SSI and SSDI are available. Five states have their own programs, but NH is not one of them[2].
Your cancer must prevent you from working at a substantial level for at least a year or be expected to result in death, based on Social Security rules. The type and stage of cancer, your symptoms, and how treatment affects you matter[5].
Average SSDI payments in NH are about $1,401/month, while SSI averages $586/month. Actual amounts depend on your work history (SSDI) or income/assets (SSI)[2].
Medicaid covers doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, home health aides, medical equipment, and sometimes long-term care. Waiver programs can help you stay at home with extra support[1].
Yes. For most Medicaid programs, single applicants need income below $2,901/month for long-term care or waivers, and below $981/month for regular Medicaid. Asset limits are $2,500, but you can have up to $7,500 and still qualify thanks to a special rule[1].
Yes, if you qualify for Medicaid, your cancer treatment—including doctor visits, hospital care, and prescriptions—will be covered. Waiver programs may cover extra services at home[1].
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Benefit programs and rules change frequently. Always confirm details with official agencies and consult a qualified professional for your specific situation.
You can apply online, by phone (1-800-772-1213), or in person at a Social Security office. Expect a decision in about 6 months, and be ready to appeal if denied[2][3].
Starting in July 2026, some Medicaid enrollees will pay monthly premiums and higher prescription copays. These will affect individuals and families above certain income levels[4].
You can work, but your income must stay under the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level for SSDI and income limits for SSI. Special work incentives may apply—see [Work Incentives](#internal-links)[5].
ABLE accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without losing benefits. You must have become disabled before age 26. This can help manage costs for cancer care[See ABLE Accounts](#internal-links).
