Oregon residents with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) may qualify for federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and specialized Oregon programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, available programs, and tips for managing income and benefits in Oregon.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a work history that meets Social Security’s credit requirements and your COPD must prevent you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA)—meaning you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month in 2025 ($2,700 if blind)[2][6]. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the "Blue Book" to evaluate if your COPD meets disability criteria based on your medical evidence. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources; in 2025, that means less than $2,000 in resources ($3,000 for couples)[2].
Oregon follows federal rules but also has state programs, such as Medicaid waivers, that may help with home and community-based services for people with COPD[1]. The Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) offers disability benefits for eligible public employees—for example, if your COPD prevents you from doing your specific job. If you are receiving PERS disability, there may be limits on how much you can earn from irregular work without losing benefits[1]. Local services, like the Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC), can help you navigate these programs. State-specific information is limited for COPD; start at the ODHS and PERS sites for details[1][4].
Visit ssa.gov to apply for SSI or SSDI online. Use the SSA Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool or call 1-800-772-1213 to get started. In Oregon, Disability Determination Services (DDS) will review your medical records to decide if you qualify for federal benefits[4]. For state-specific help, call the Oregon ADRC at 1-855-673-2372.
SSDI provides monthly payments if you have enough work credits and your COPD prevents you from working. SSI offers monthly payments for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both require thorough medical documentation. Medicaid and Medicare may also cover health costs for people with severe COPD[4][6]. ABLE accounts let you save up to $15,060 in 2025 without losing SSI/Medicaid eligibility, if you became disabled before age 26[7].
Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) covers doctor visits, treatments, and medications for those who qualify. Medicaid waivers support home and community-based services, which may help you stay at home if you need care. Oregon PERS disability benefits are for public employees who can no longer do their job due to COPD—state laws and earnings limits apply[1]. Local ADRCs connect you to services like transportation, meals, and caregiving. Oregon programs are subject to state and federal budget changes, so check for updates.
Oregon residents with COPD who became disabled before age 26 can open an Oregon ABLE Savings Account. In 2025, you can save up to $15,060 per year (or your annual wages, if less) without affecting your SSI or Medicaid eligibility[7]. These funds can pay for disability-related expenses. See our ABLE Accounts guide for more.
For SSI, you must have less than $2,000 in assets (for an individual) and very limited income. For SSDI, you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month in 2025 if you are working ($2,700 if blind). Exceeding these limits can result in losing benefits[2][6]. Oregon PERS disability also has earnings limits[1].
You must report any changes in your income, living situation, or health to SSA and Oregon DHS. Failing to report can lead to overpayments, which you may have to pay back. See our Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide for step-by-step help.
You are not alone. If applying for benefits feels overwhelming, Oregon’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) can help you understand options, fill out forms, and connect to local services—completely free.
Federal and state programs can change due to legislation or budget issues. Check Oregon.gov and SSA.gov regularly for updates, especially if you rely on SNAP, Medicaid, or disability benefits.
If you want to try working, special rules let you keep some benefits while earning a little income. Learn about SSI & SSDI Work Incentives to make the most of Oregon disability benefits.
Yes, but strict limits apply. For SSDI, you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month in 2025. For SSI, even small earnings can reduce your benefit. Oregon PERS disability allows some irregular income. Always report work and income changes immediately[1][2][6].
SSDI is based on your work history and requires enough work credits. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Oregon DDS decides eligibility for both. See our [SSI vs SSDI](/guides/ssi-ssdi) guide for details.
Yes. If you qualify for SSI, you may automatically get Oregon Medicaid. If not, you can apply directly. Medicaid covers doctor visits, medications, and may pay for in-home services through waivers. Check with the Oregon Health Authority for current rules.
You have 60 days to appeal. Start by filing a Request for Reconsideration. If denied again, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. Contact the Oregon DDS or local SSA office for help with the process.
If you became disabled before age 26, you can use an Oregon ABLE account to save up to $15,060 in 2025 without affecting SSI or Medicaid. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses[7].
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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Report any significant changes—like starting or stopping work, moving, or changing doctors—to Social Security and Oregon DHS immediately. This helps avoid overpayments and benefit interruptions.
Yes. The Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) can help you find local services such as transportation, meals, and in-home care. Contact your county’s ADRC by phone or online for help.
You need detailed records from your doctor showing how COPD affects your ability to work and perform daily tasks. This includes test results, treatment history, and a statement from your physician.
Yes. Multnomah County and other Oregon counties have local food resources. Call your county’s ADRC or visit county websites for emergency food programs and pantries[5].
Contact your local ADRC or the Oregon DDS for free, confidential help. These agencies can answer questions, help with paperwork, and connect you to local resources.
