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Oregon • Neurodegenerative
People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Oregon can access federal and state disability benefits, including Social Security, Medicaid waivers, and paid caregiving. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key changes for 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a medically determinable impairment that prevents substantial gainful activity for at least 12 months. ALS is automatically considered a qualifying disability for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI requires work credits; SSI is for those with limited income and resources. For SSDI, you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and meet the 20/40 work credit rule. For SSI, income and resource limits apply: $2,000 for an individual, $3,000 for a couple (2025) 3, 7.
In Oregon, people with ALS may qualify for state disability benefits, Medicaid waivers, and paid caregiving services. The Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) disability program has specific eligibility rules for police and firefighters, but ALS is generally considered a qualifying disability. Oregon also offers the Oregon ABLE Savings Program for tax-advantaged savings. Recent changes to PERS disability eligibility (2025) now require that police and firefighters be unable to perform the work they did at the time of disability, not just any work. For all other state programs, ALS is considered a severe disability. Oregon Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities, including ALS 6, 8, 1.
The Oregon ABLE Savings Program allows people with disabilities to save money in a tax-advantaged account. The 2025 contribution limit is $15,060 or total wages, whichever is less. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as housing, education, transportation, and personal support services. Learn more and apply at oregonablesavings.com 8.
For SSI, the 2025 income limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but earnings must be below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) threshold, which is $1,620 per month in 2025 (or $2,700 if blind). For Oregon Medicaid waivers, income and resource limits vary by program 3, 7.
It is important to report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments and ensure continued eligibility. Overpayments can result in repayment requirements or loss of benefits. Report changes to the Social Security Administration, Oregon Health Authority, and other benefit programs as soon as possible 6.
Oregon changed PERS disability eligibility for police and firefighters in 2025. SNAP work requirements also changed, but people with disabilities are exempt. Stay informed about these updates to ensure continued eligibility.
Yes, ALS is automatically considered a qualifying disability for both SSDI and SSI. You do not need to meet the usual waiting period for SSDI, and your application will be processed quickly.
The 2025 income limit for SSI is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. This includes all income and resources.
You can work, but your earnings must be below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) threshold, which is $1,620 per month in 2025. Earnings above this limit may affect your benefits.
Oregon offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, including personal care, respite care, and assistive technology. These waivers help people with ALS live independently in their communities.
Contact your local Aging and Disability Resource Connection office for information on paid caregiving services. They can help you apply and connect you with local providers.
An Oregon ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. The 2025 contribution limit is $15,060 or total wages, whichever is less. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Yes, the ArrayRx program helps reduce the cost of prescription medications for people with disabilities. You can get a discount card and use it at pharmacies across the state.
In 2025, Oregon changed PERS disability eligibility for police and firefighters to require inability to perform their previous job, not just any work. SNAP work requirements also changed, but people with disabilities are exempt.
Yes, you may be eligible for both SSDI and SSI if you meet the eligibility requirements for each program. SSDI is based on work history, SSI is based on income and resources.
If your benefits are denied, you can appeal the decision. Contact the Social Security Administration or Oregon Health Authority for information on the appeals process.
