If you have arthritis in Ohio, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, plus state programs for health care, housing, and food. Ohio does not add extra cash to SSI, but offers strong Medicaid and support services. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what help is available.
To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for arthritis, you must meet federal medical and financial rules. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. For SSI, your income and assets must be low. Arthritis must be severe enough to stop you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your medical records and work history to decide if you qualify. You can check your eligibility online at SSA.gov or by calling 800-772-1213 [7].
Ohio does not provide extra cash payments to SSI recipients, so you will receive only the federal SSI amount ($943/month for individuals in 2025). However, Ohio offers strong support through Medicaid, food assistance (SNAP), housing programs, and services for people with disabilities. If you have arthritis, you may also qualify for Medicaid waivers for home care, and other state programs can help with daily living costs. County agencies may offer extra help, so check with your local office for more options [1].
Federal programs for arthritis in Ohio include:
Ohio offers these programs for people with arthritis:
An ABLE account lets you save up to $17,000 per year without losing SSI or Medicaid. Ohio’s STABLE account is an ABLE option. You can use funds for disability-related costs like medical care, housing, and education. Learn more at Ohio STABLE [internal_link: ABLE Accounts].
For SSI in 2025, the federal limit is $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples. Ohio does not add extra cash. SSDI has no income limit, but you must not earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit ($1,470/month in 2024, likely higher in 2025) [3][7].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can be repaid, but you can ask for a waiver if it’s not your fault. Learn more at [internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Contact Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities for free help with disability applications, appeals, and work incentives. They can guide you through every step.
Yes, if your arthritis is severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. Ohio does not add extra cash to SSI, but you can get Medicaid and other support services.
SSI pays $943/month for individuals in 2025. Ohio does not add extra cash, so this is the full amount. SSDI payments depend on your work history.
Ohio offers Medicaid, SNAP, LIHEAP, housing help, and disability services. County offices may offer extra help. Ohio does not add cash to SSI, but these programs can reduce living costs.
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone (800-772-1213), or in person. Gather medical records and work history. Ohio’s Division of Disability Determination reviews your case.
Yes, work incentives let you keep benefits while working part-time. The SGA limit is $1,470/month in 2024, likely higher in 2025. ABLE accounts let you save money without losing benefits.
Yes, Ohio offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. These can help with home care, therapy, and other needs for people with arthritis.
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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You can appeal the decision. Contact Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities for help. You may also get help from Disability Rights Ohio or local legal aid.
Contact Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, Disability Rights Ohio, or SOAR Ohio. They offer help with applications, appeals, and work incentives.
Yes, SNAP (Food Stamps) helps low-income people with arthritis buy food. Apply through your county assistance office or online.
The SGA limit is $1,470/month for non-blind people in 2024. It will likely increase in 2025 due to inflation. This is the most you can earn and still get SSDI.
