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Ohio • Chronic Illness
Ohio residents with asthma may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, Medicaid, and supportive services. Ohio does not offer state cash supplements for SSI, but provides robust Medicaid coverage, food assistance, and other supports. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs for Ohioans with asthma.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, your asthma must be severe enough to prevent you from working or doing substantial activity for at least 12 months. For SSI, you must also meet strict income and asset limits. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. Both programs require medical proof, such as doctor reports, test results, and treatment records. Children with asthma may qualify if their condition meets Social Security’s childhood disability criteria. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews all applications and makes the final decision.
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Ohio does not offer state cash supplements for SSI recipients. This means SSI recipients receive only the federal benefit amount, which is $943 per month for individuals and $1,415 for couples in 2025. However, Ohio provides strong support through Medicaid, food assistance (SNAP), housing programs, and county-based services. These programs can help cover medical costs, groceries, utilities, and housing for people with asthma. Ohio’s county boards of developmental disabilities and area agencies on aging also offer assessments, service planning, and coordination for eligible residents. While asthma is not a developmental disability, these agencies may still provide referrals or support for chronic illness management.
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Start your application at ssa.gov or benefits.ohio.gov.
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Ohio does not provide state cash supplements for SSI recipients. Instead, Ohio offers:
These programs do not provide direct cash like state SSI supplements, but they can significantly reduce living expenses and improve quality of life for Ohioans with asthma.
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ABLE accounts let Ohioans with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use these funds for qualified disability expenses, including asthma care. Ohio’s ABLE program is open to residents with disabilities that began before age 26. Learn more and apply at Ohio ABLE.
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SSI has strict income and asset limits. In 2025, the federal SSI limit is $943 per month for individuals and $1,415 for couples. SSDI has no income limit, but you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind) from work. Medicaid and SNAP have their own income limits, which vary by household size and situation.
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If you receive too much SSI or SSDI, you must report it and may have to repay the overpayment. Report changes in income, living situation, or medical status to SSA. Ohio does not have a separate state overpayment process for SSI, but Medicaid and SNAP require reporting changes to avoid overpayments.
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COHHIO’s SOAR Ohio program offers free training and support to submit complete and quality SSI/SSDI applications. Contact your local agency for help.
Ohio Employment First provides free work incentives counseling to help people with asthma return to work while keeping their benefits.
Yes, asthma can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it is severe enough to prevent you from working or doing substantial activity for at least 12 months. You must provide medical proof and meet income or work history requirements.
No, Ohio does not provide state cash supplements for SSI recipients. You will receive only the federal SSI amount, but you may qualify for Medicaid, SNAP, and other supportive services.
You can apply for Medicaid online at benefits.ohio.gov or through your county department of job and family services. You will need proof of income, residency, and medical information.
Yes, children with severe asthma may qualify for SSI if their condition meets Social Security’s childhood disability criteria. Parents can apply on their behalf.
Ohio offers free work incentives counseling through Ohio Employment First. This helps people with asthma return to work while keeping their benefits.
The state agency may take 6 to 8 months to decide on your application. Some conditions may qualify for immediate payments while your application is reviewed.
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 personalized guidance.
Yes, COHHIO’s SOAR Ohio program offers training and support to submit complete and quality SSI/SSDI applications. You can also get help from Disability Rights Ohio.
If your application is denied, you can appeal within 60 days. You may need to provide more medical evidence or attend a hearing.
Ohio does not have asthma-specific programs, but Medicaid, SNAP, and county boards offer support for chronic illness management and related expenses.
Yes, if your asthma began before age 26, you can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
