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Ohio • Neurodegenerative
People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Ohio can access federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus Medicaid and other state support services. Ohio does not offer extra cash supplements to SSI, but provides robust health and social services.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with ALS, you must have a confirmed diagnosis and be unable to work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) considers ALS a Compassionate Allowances condition, meaning applications are processed quickly. For SSDI, you need enough work credits (usually 20 in the last 10 years). For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. Both programs require medical evidence of your disability. Children with ALS may qualify for SSI if family income is low 6 7.
Ohio does not provide state supplementary payments to SSI recipients, so ALS beneficiaries receive only federal SSI amounts ($943/month for individuals, $1,415/month for couples in 2025). Instead, Ohio focuses on other supports, such as Medicaid, food assistance, and housing programs. County boards of developmental disabilities offer services for those with ALS, including care coordination and home and community-based waivers. Eligibility for these services is based on diagnosis and need, not income alone 1 4.
Ohio offers ABLE accounts, which allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Contributions are tax-free, and funds can be used for qualified disability expenses. Learn more about Ohio ABLE accounts and how to open one.
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples. Ohio does not add state supplements. SSDI payments vary based on your work history. Medicaid and SNAP have separate income limits based on household size and state rules.
It is important to report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back. Learn how to report changes and avoid overpayments to keep your benefits safe.
ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition, so your disability application will be processed quickly by the Social Security Administration.
Ohio does not provide extra cash for SSI recipients. Focus on Medicaid, food, and housing assistance for additional support.
No, Ohio does not provide state supplementary payments to SSI recipients. ALS beneficiaries receive only the federal SSI amount. However, Ohio offers other supports like Medicaid, food assistance, and housing programs.
ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition, so applications for SSDI or SSI are processed quickly by the Social Security Administration. Most decisions are made within a few weeks.
Ohio offers Medicaid, county board services for developmental disabilities, food assistance, housing help, and legal advocacy. County boards provide care coordination and home and community-based waivers.
Yes, children with ALS may qualify for SSI if their family income is low. The application process is the same as for adults, and ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition.
You can apply for Medicaid online at benefits.ohio.gov, by phone, or in person. You will need your medical records and proof of income. Medicaid covers health care and home and community-based services.
Yes, Ohio offers Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) to help people with ALS work while keeping their benefits. These programs provide guidance on how to work without losing SSI or SSDI.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult official sources or a qualified professional for your specific situation.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like medical care, housing, and education.
Report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to the Social Security Administration. You can do this online, by phone, or in person. Reporting changes helps you avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits safe.
Yes, organizations like Disability Rights Ohio and county boards of developmental disabilities offer help with applications. They can also provide legal advocacy and support.
If your application is denied, you can appeal. The appeals process includes reconsideration, a hearing, and review by the Appeals Council. You can get help from legal advocates during the appeal.