People with epilepsy in Ohio may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months, and meet the work credit rule (usually 20 credits in the last 10 years)[^1]. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have a qualifying disability, limited income and resources, and be a U.S. citizen or legal resident[^2]. Epilepsy is listed in Social Security’s Blue Book under neurological disorders, but even if your epilepsy doesn’t exactly match the listing, you may still qualify if it severely limits your ability to work[^1].
Children with epilepsy may qualify for SSI if their family meets income and resource limits. Adults with epilepsy that began before age 22 may be eligible for benefits based on a parent’s Social Security record if the parent is retired, disabled, or deceased[^1].
In Ohio, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Division of Disability Determination (DDD) of Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD)[^3]. If you have epilepsy, you must provide medical records showing how your condition affects your daily life and ability to work. Ohio’s county boards of developmental disabilities can help with assessment and service planning for people with epilepsy, especially if it began in childhood[^4].
Ohio also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help people with epilepsy live independently. These waivers may cover personal care, respite care, and other supports. To qualify, you must meet both federal and state criteria for disability and financial need[^4].
An ABLE account lets people with epilepsy save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses, such as medical care, education, and housing. Ohio’s ABLE program is called STABLE, and you can learn more at STABLEAccount.com[^3].
If you get too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to SSA right away to avoid overpayments. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person[^1].
Contact your local county board of developmental disabilities or Disability Rights Ohio for help with your application and advocacy.
Yes, epilepsy can qualify for SSI and SSDI if it meets Social Security’s definition of disability. You must show that your epilepsy prevents you from working for at least 12 months and provide medical records to support your claim[^1].
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 800-772-1213, or in person at a local SSA office. You’ll need medical records and work history. County boards can help with Medicaid waivers[^1][^4].
A Medicaid waiver helps people with epilepsy get home and community-based services, such as personal care and respite care. You must meet both federal and state criteria for disability and financial need[^4].
Yes, work incentives let you keep benefits while working. Programs like Ticket to Work and WIPA can help you plan for work without losing your benefits[^2].
A representative payee is someone who manages your benefits if you can’t. Disability Rights Ohio can help if you have problems with a payee[^2].
You can get help from your local county board of developmental disabilities, Disability Rights Ohio, or SOAR Ohio. They can help you apply and advocate for your rights[^2][^4][^6].
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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An ABLE account lets you save money for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Ohio’s ABLE program is called STABLE[^3].
Report changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to SSA right away to avoid overpayments. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person[^1].
You can appeal the decision. Disability Rights Ohio can help you with the appeals process and advocate for your rights[^2].
Yes, children with epilepsy may qualify for SSI if their family meets income and resource limits. Adults with epilepsy that began before age 22 may be eligible for benefits based on a parent’s Social Security record[^1].
