If you have asthma in Oregon, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what programs can help with medical costs, income, and daily living.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with asthma, the Social Security Administration (SSA) must determine that your asthma is severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA). In 2025, SGA is defined as earning more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind). You must have a medically determinable impairment that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. You also need enough work credits for SSDI, or limited income/resources for SSI. The SSA uses its "Blue Book" to evaluate medical conditions, including asthma, based on specific criteria like frequency of attacks and lung function tests [5].
If approved, you can receive monthly payments and may qualify for Medicaid or Medicare. Children with asthma may also be eligible for SSI if their condition severely limits daily activities [2].
In Oregon, adults with asthma may qualify for state disability benefits if their condition prevents them from working in their usual job. For police and firefighter members, the standard is whether they can perform the work they did before becoming disabled. For other public employees, the rules may vary. Oregon also offers Medicaid waivers for people with chronic illnesses, which can help pay for home and community-based services. If you receive disability benefits, you can earn up to 10% of your previous monthly salary from irregular or unpredictable work without losing benefits. If you earn more, your benefits may end [1].
Oregon has specific rules for applying for disability benefits, and the state reviews all applications before the federal government makes a final decision. You may also qualify for food assistance (SNAP) and other support programs, but eligibility rules have changed in 2025 due to federal legislation [4].
Step 1: Review the SSA's Blue Book listing for asthma (Section 3.03) to see if your condition meets the criteria. You need medical evidence like spirometry results and records of hospitalizations or emergency visits.
Step 2: Collect your work history, including dates and job duties. For SSDI, you need 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years.
Step 3: Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local office. You will need to provide personal information, medical records, and work history.
Step 4: Oregon's Disability Determination Services (DDS) will review your application. They may ask for more information or schedule a consultative exam.
Step 5: Wait for a decision. If denied, you can appeal within 60 days.
Step 6: If approved, you will receive monthly payments and may qualify for Medicaid or Medicare. Report any changes in income or health to avoid overpayments [5].
Oregon offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities. These accounts let you save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses like medical care, education, and housing. To open an ABLE account, visit the Oregon ABLE program website.
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month, but Oregon may add a state supplement. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you must not be able to do substantial gainful activity (SGA), which is $1,620 per month in 2025. For Medicaid, income limits vary by program and household size. For SNAP, income limits depend on household size and composition.
If your income or health changes, you must report it to the SSA or Oregon DHS. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties. Always keep records of your income and medical expenses. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact the agency to discuss repayment options [5].
Contact the Oregon Department of Human Services or a local nonprofit for help with your disability application. They can provide information, support, and advocacy.
Yes, if your asthma is severe enough to prevent you from working, you may qualify for disability benefits. The Social Security Administration uses specific medical criteria to determine eligibility.
For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. For SSDI, you must not be able to do substantial gainful activity, which is $1,620 per month in 2025. For PERS disability, you can earn up to 10% of your previous monthly salary from irregular work.
You need medical records showing the severity of your asthma, such as spirometry results, records of hospitalizations, and notes from your doctor about how asthma affects your daily life.
The process can take several months. Oregon's Disability Determination Services will review your application and may ask for more information or schedule an exam.
Yes, children with severe asthma may qualify for SSI if their condition severely limits their daily activities. The application process is similar to adults.
If you earn more than the allowed amount, your benefits may be reduced or stopped. Always report changes in income to avoid overpayments and penalties.
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, Oregon offers work incentives like the Ticket to Work program and ABLE accounts to help you keep benefits while earning income.
You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. Always keep records of your income and medical expenses.
Oregon offers Medicaid waivers, food assistance (SNAP), and ABLE accounts for people with disabilities. You may also qualify for housing and transportation assistance.
Yes, you can get help from local agencies, nonprofit organizations, or a disability advocate. The Oregon Department of Human Services can also provide information and support.
