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Ohio • Chronic Illness
People with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Ohio may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state services and Medicaid waivers. Eligibility depends on medical evidence, work history, and income. This guide explains how to apply, what programs are available, and how to manage your benefits.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, your condition must prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. For SSDI, you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. For SSI, your income and assets must be below strict limits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your medical records, work history, and other evidence to decide if you meet their definition of disability. If approved, you may get monthly payments and access to Medicare or Medicaid.
For 2025, substantial work is defined as earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) [5].
In Ohio, the Division of Disability Determination (DDD) works with the SSA to review medical evidence for disability claims. If you have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, you must provide detailed medical records from doctors, hospitals, or clinics showing your diagnosis, symptoms, and how your condition limits your daily activities. Ohio’s county boards of developmental disabilities may also offer support services, even if your condition is not developmental. Medicaid waivers can help pay for home and community-based services, such as personal care or respite care, if you meet income and functional criteria. Ohio’s Department of Aging and local agencies may offer additional help for older adults with chronic illnesses.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Ohio’s STABLE Account program is Ohio’s ABLE account. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, transportation, and health care. Contributions are limited, and there are tax benefits. Visit the STABLE Account website to learn more and apply [internal_link: ABLE Accounts].
You must report any changes in your income, work, or health to the SSA to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you have trouble, contact Disability Rights Ohio or your local county board for help. See our guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes for more details [internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
SOAR Ohio trains staff and community members to help you submit complete and quality SSI/SSDI applications. Contact your local county board or Disability Rights Ohio for extra support.
Yes, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it meets Social Security’s definition of disability. You must provide medical evidence showing your condition is severe and long-lasting. Ohio’s Division of Disability Determination reviews your case with the SSA [5].
Gather medical records and proof of income, then apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. Submit all required documents and attend a consultative exam if requested. Ohio’s county boards and Disability Rights Ohio can help with the process [1][5].
You need detailed medical records from doctors, hospitals, or clinics showing your diagnosis, symptoms, and how your condition limits your daily activities. The state agency may ask for a consultative exam, which they will pay for [5][4].
Ohio offers Medicaid waivers, county board services, and support from Disability Rights Ohio. These programs can help with home and community-based services, legal advocacy, and benefit issues [3][2][7].
Yes, work incentives let you keep benefits while trying to work. For 2025, you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) and still qualify for SSDI. SSI has different rules. See our guide on work incentives for more details [5][6].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.
The process can take 6–8 months. Some conditions may qualify for immediate payments, but most claims take several months to review. You can appeal if denied [5][4].
You can appeal the decision. Contact Ohio’s county board or Disability Rights Ohio for help with appeals or extra support. You may need to provide more medical evidence or attend a hearing [3][2].
Yes, SOAR Ohio trains staff and community members to submit complete and quality SSI/SSDI applications. Ohio’s county boards and Disability Rights Ohio also offer help with applications and appeals [7][2].
Medicaid waivers pay for home and community-based services, such as personal care, respite care, and supported employment. You must meet income and functional criteria to qualify. Ohio’s county boards can help you apply [3].
Report changes in your income, work, or health to the SSA online, by phone, or in person. If you have trouble, contact Disability Rights Ohio or your local county board for help [5].
