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Ohio • Chronic Illness
People with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis in Ohio can qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state programs for Medicaid, food, housing, and support services. Ohio does not add extra cash to SSI, but offers other help to lower living costs.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Ohio, you must meet Social Security’s definition of disability. This means you have a medical condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs require medical proof of your disability, such as doctor records and test results. The Social Security Administration (SSA) makes the final decision, but Ohio’s Division of Disability Determination helps review medical evidence. [^1][^2][^3]
Ohio does not provide extra cash payments (state supplements) to SSI recipients, so Ohioans receive only the federal SSI amount. However, Ohio offers other forms of support for people with disabilities. These include Medicaid for health care, SNAP (food stamps) for groceries, LIHEAP for utility bills, and housing programs. County boards of developmental disabilities and mental health agencies may offer extra services, such as case management, therapy, and home care. Ohio also has programs for people who want to work, like vocational rehab and work incentives. [^1][^2][^4]
Ohio does not offer extra cash to SSI recipients, but provides other support:
These programs can help lower living costs and improve quality of life for people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis in Ohio.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. Ohio offers the STABLE Account, which is Ohio’s ABLE program. You can save up to $17,000 per year, and the first $100,000 does not count against SSI limits. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like medical care, housing, and education. Learn more at stableaccount.com. [^6]
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 for individuals and $1,415 for couples. Ohio does not add extra cash, so these are the only amounts. SSDI amounts depend on your work history. For Medicaid, income limits vary by program and household size. Check benefits.ohio.gov for current limits. [^1][^5]
If your income, resources, or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security. Not reporting can cause overpayments, which you may have to repay. Report changes online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. Ohio’s Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) can help you understand how work affects your benefits. [^3][^4]
Ohio does not add extra cash to SSI payments. You will receive only the federal SSI amount. However, Ohio offers other help like Medicaid, food, and housing programs to lower living costs.
Ohio has programs to help people with disabilities work without losing benefits. Ask about Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) for free help.
No, Ohio does not provide extra cash payments (state supplements) to SSI recipients. You will receive only the federal SSI amount, which is $943 for individuals and $1,415 for couples in 2025. Ohio focuses on other support like Medicaid and food assistance instead.
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local Social Security office. Ohio’s Division of Disability Determination will review your medical records. You can also apply for Ohio Medicaid and other local programs at benefits.ohio.gov.
You need medical records, doctor statements, and test results that show your Myalgic Encephalomyelitis severely limits your daily activities. Include treatment history and how your symptoms affect your ability to work or do daily tasks.
Yes, if you have low income and resources, you can get Medicaid in Ohio. Medicaid covers doctor visits, hospital care, therapy, and more. Apply at benefits.ohio.gov or your county agency. Medicaid is often linked to SSI or SSDI.
Ohio offers SNAP (food stamps), LIHEAP (utility help), housing programs, county-based services, and work incentives. County boards of developmental disabilities and mental health agencies may offer extra support like case management and therapy.
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 your specific situation.
If your application is denied, you can appeal within 60 days. Appeals include reconsideration, a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge, and review by the Appeals Council. You can file online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office.
Yes, Ohio has work incentives and programs to help people with disabilities work without losing benefits. Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) offers free help to understand how work affects your SSI or SSDI.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. Ohio’s ABLE program is called the STABLE Account. You can save up to $17,000 per year, and the first $100,000 does not count against SSI limits.
Yes, you must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security. Not reporting can cause overpayments, which you may have to repay. Report changes online, by phone, or in person.
Disability Rights Ohio offers free legal help and advocacy for people with disabilities. They can help with appeals, representative payee issues, and other legal matters related to disability benefits.
