If you have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome in Ohio, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and other state programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Ohio, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) rules. For SSDI, you need a qualifying work history and a disability that prevents you from working. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must be severe enough to stop you from working. Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome can qualify if it meets SSA’s Blue Book criteria or is equally severe. In 2025, the SSI federal payment is $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples. SSDI payments vary based on your work history. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals in 2025. If you earn more, you may lose benefits unless you use work incentives. [^1][^2][^3]
Ohio does not provide extra cash supplements to SSI recipients, so you will only receive the federal SSI amount. However, Ohio offers other supports for people with disabilities. These include Medicaid for healthcare, SNAP for food, LIHEAP for energy bills, and housing programs. County boards of developmental disabilities can help with services for adults and children. If you have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, you may also qualify for Medicaid waivers, which provide home and community-based services. Ohio’s approach focuses on services rather than direct cash payments. [^1][^5]
Ohio offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities. These accounts let you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and healthcare. Learn more at the Ohio ABLE program website. [^6]
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples. SSDI has no income limit, but you must not earn more than the SGA limit ($1,620/month for non-blind individuals in 2025) unless you use work incentives. Medicaid and SNAP have their own income rules. [^1][^3][^7]
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you earn too much or don’t report changes. If you get an overpayment, you may have to pay it back. Use work incentives to help avoid overpayments. [^6]
Contact your local county board of developmental disabilities or Disability Rights Ohio for free help with applications and appeals.
Yes, if your Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is severe enough to stop you from working and you have enough work credits. You must meet SSA’s disability rules. Medical evidence is key. [^7]
No, Ohio does not provide state cash supplements to SSI recipients. You will only get the federal SSI amount. [^1]
You can apply for Medicaid online at benefits.ohio.gov, by phone, or in person. You may qualify if you get SSI or have low income and a disability. [^5]
County boards of developmental disabilities offer services like care coordination, home and community-based waivers, and support for adults with disabilities. [^5]
Yes, you can work and keep some benefits using work incentives. The SGA limit in 2025 is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals. [^3][^6]
An ABLE account lets you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. Ohio offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities. [^6]
You can appeal within 60 days of the denial. Contact SSA or your local county board for help with the appeal process. [^2]
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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Yes, Ohio offers SNAP for food and housing programs through the Ohio Housing Finance Agency. County boards may also help. [^1][^5]
The SGA limit in 2025 is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals. [^3][^8]
Disability Rights Ohio offers legal advocacy and help with representative payees. [^4]
