If you have arthritis in Oregon, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key programs for Oregon residents with arthritis.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with arthritis, you must have a medically determinable impairment that prevents you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least 12 months. For SSDI, you need enough work credits and must meet the Social Security Administration's definition of disability. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. The SSA uses its "Blue Book" to evaluate conditions like arthritis. If your arthritis is severe enough to meet or equal a listing, or if it prevents you from working, you may qualify for benefits.
Source: SSA.gov, 2025-11-06 Source: Oregon.gov, 2025-11-06
In Oregon, arthritis may qualify you for state disability programs, including Medicaid waivers and the Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) disability benefits. For PERS, police and firefighter members are considered disabled if they cannot perform the work they did at the time of disability. For other state programs, eligibility depends on your income, resources, and how arthritis affects your daily life. Oregon also offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities, including arthritis, to save for disability-related costs.
Source: Oregon.gov, 2025-11-06 Source: Oregon.gov, 2025-11-06 Source: OregonABLESavings.com, 2025-11-06
Source: SSA.gov, 2025-11-06 Source: Oregon.gov, 2025-11-06
Source: SSA.gov, 2025-11-06 Source: Oregon.gov, 2025-11-06 Source: Oregon.gov, 2025-11-06
Source: SSA.gov, 2025-11-06 Source: Oregon.gov, 2025-11-06
Source: Oregon.gov, 2025-11-06 Source: Oregon.gov, 2025-11-06 Source: OregonABLESavings.com, 2025-11-06 Source: Oregon.gov, 2025-11-06
Oregon residents with arthritis can open an ABLE account if they became disabled before age 26. In 2025, you can contribute up to $15,060 or your total wages, whichever is less. ABLE accounts let you save for disability-related costs without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
Source: OregonABLESavings.com, 2025-11-06
For SSI in 2025, the income limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you must not earn more than $1,620/month (SGA) for most people, $2,700/month if blind. For Medicaid, income limits vary by program and household size.
Source: SSA.gov, 2025-11-06 Source: Oregon.gov, 2025-11-06
If your income, resources, or condition changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to penalties or loss of benefits. Report changes to Social Security, Oregon DHS, or PERS as soon as possible.
Source: Oregon.gov, 2025-11-06 Source: Oregon.gov, 2025-11-06
Contact Oregon DHS or your local Social Security office for help with your application. You can also get free help from disability advocates or legal aid organizations.
Yes, if your arthritis is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. Oregon also has state programs for people with disabilities, including arthritis.
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. For state programs, contact Oregon DHS or PERS. Gather medical records and work history before applying.
In 2025, the SSI income limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. For SSDI, you must not earn more than $1,620/month (SGA) for most people.
Yes, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit ($1,620/month in 2025). Some programs allow limited work without losing benefits. Report any work to avoid overpayments.
An ABLE account lets you save for disability-related costs without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Oregon residents with arthritis who became disabled before age 26 can open one.
Yes, Oregon offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including arthritis, who need help with daily living. These waivers provide services like personal care and home modifications.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Join thousands of families who trust Purple to protect their benefits
Purple is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by OMB Bank, Member FDIC.
If you don't report changes, you may get an overpayment, which can lead to penalties or loss of benefits. Always report changes to Social Security, Oregon DHS, or PERS.
Yes, if you meet income and work requirements. Able-bodied adults without dependents must work, volunteer, or train for at least 80 hours/month to remain eligible for SNAP.
It can take several months to get a decision. The state Disability Determination Services (DDS) will review your application and may request more information.
If your application is denied, you can appeal. You have 60 days to file an appeal after receiving the denial notice.
