Rheumatoid Arthritis Benefits in New Hampshire

To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) with rheumatoid arthritis, your condition must meet Social Security's strict definition of disability. This means you cannot do substantial work due to your medical condition, cannot adjust to other work, and your condition has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Partial or short-term disabilities do not qualify. You must also meet income and asset limits for SSI, and work history requirements for SSDI[1].

For Medicaid, you must meet both income and asset limits, and your condition must require a nursing home level of care for long-term care programs[2].

New Hampshire does not have a state disability program for rheumatoid arthritis. Residents must apply for federal programs like SSI and SSDI. For Medicaid, a single applicant must have income under $2,901/month and assets under $2,500 for nursing home care, or $981/month and $1,500 in assets for regular Medicaid. Medicaid waivers for home care have similar limits[2].

There is no separate state application for disability; all claims are processed by the federal Social Security Administration. New Hampshire does not offer additional state disability payments or programs for rheumatoid arthritis[3].

• Gather medical records showing how rheumatoid arthritis affects your ability to work.
• Complete the Social Security Disability application online or at your local office.
• Submit all required documents, including proof of income and assets.
• Wait for a decision; most people are denied at first and must appeal.
• If denied, request reconsideration and, if needed, a hearing[4].

• Collect Medical Evidence: Get detailed records from your doctors, including diagnosis, treatment, and how your rheumatoid arthritis limits your daily activities and ability to work.
• Start the Application: Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You can also apply for Medicaid at the same time if you meet income limits[1].
• Submit Required Documents: Include proof of income, assets, medical records, and any other requested information.
• Wait for Initial Decision: Most applications are denied at first. If denied, you have 60 days to request reconsideration.
• Request Reconsideration: Submit any new evidence and wait for a decision. Most reconsiderations are also denied.
• Request a Hearing: If denied again, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge. This process can take up to two years[4].
• Keep Records: Track all correspondence and keep copies of all documents you submit.

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For people who have worked and paid into Social Security. Payments are based on your work history.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For people with limited income and resources. Payments are based on financial need.
• Medicaid: For low-income people who need medical care. Covers doctor visits, hospital stays, and long-term care.
• Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): For people who need home care or community-based services instead of nursing home care[2].

New Hampshire does not have a state disability program for rheumatoid arthritis. All disability benefits are provided through federal programs. Medicaid and Medicaid waivers are available for those who meet income and asset limits. Regular Medicaid covers basic medical care, while Medicaid waivers can help with home care, personal care, and other services for people who need a nursing home level of care[2].

There are no state-specific disability programs or payments for rheumatoid arthritis in New Hampshire. Residents must rely on federal programs and Medicaid for support[3].

ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses like medical care, education, and housing. New Hampshire residents can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE program[5].

For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $914/month for an individual. For Medicaid, a single applicant must have income under $2,901/month for nursing home care or $981/month for regular Medicaid. Asset limits are $2,500 for nursing home care and $1,500 for regular Medicaid[2].

If your income or resources change, you must report it to Social Security or Medicaid. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties. Always report changes as soon as possible to avoid problems[6].

• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Hours: 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM

  Website

  For disability benefits and Medicaid questions.

• Can I get disability benefits for rheumatoid arthritis in New Hampshire?

  Yes, if your rheumatoid arthritis meets Social Security's definition of disability and you meet income and asset limits for SSI or work history requirements for SSDI. New Hampshire does not have a separate state disability program[3].

• What is the average SSDI payment in New Hampshire?

  The average SSDI payment in New Hampshire is about $1,400 per month. The actual amount depends on your work history and how much you paid into Social Security[3].

• What is the average SSI payment in New Hampshire?

  The average SSI payment in New Hampshire is about $586 per month. The actual amount depends on your income and resources[3].

• How do I apply for disability benefits in New Hampshire?

  You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need to provide medical records and proof of income and assets[4].

• What medical evidence do I need for a disability claim?

  You need detailed medical records showing your diagnosis, treatment, and how rheumatoid arthritis limits your ability to work and do daily activities[4].

• What happens if my disability application is denied?

  Most applications are denied at first. You can request reconsideration and, if needed, a hearing before an administrative law judge. Appeals are common and often necessary[4].