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Oregon • Rare/Genetic
People with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome in Oregon may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. Changes in 2025 affect work requirements and income limits for some programs.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security's definition of disability. For adults, this means you cannot do substantial work due to a physical or mental condition expected to last at least one year or result in death. You must also meet work credit requirements for SSDI or income/asset limits for SSI. Children with disabilities may qualify for benefits if their condition meets the criteria. In 2025, the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for most disabilities, or $2,700 if blind. Earnings above this may affect eligibility[^6].
In Oregon, disability benefits are provided through programs like PERS (Public Employees Retirement System) and Medicaid. For PERS disability, eligibility for police and firefighters changed in 2025: you must be unable to perform the work you did when you became disabled, not just any work. If you receive disability benefits, you can earn up to 10% of your previous monthly salary in irregular or unpredictable income each month without losing benefits. Exceeding this limit ends your benefits. Oregon also has Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can be crucial for those with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome needing ongoing care[^1][^2][^4].
Oregon offers ABLE accounts, which allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits. In 2025, you can contribute up to $15,060 or your total wages, whichever is less, to an ABLE account. These funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as medical care, education, and housing[^7].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Oregon may have additional state-specific limits for Medicaid and other programs. Earnings above the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit of $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind) may affect SSDI eligibility[^6].
It is crucial to report any changes in income, employment, or living situation to SSA and Oregon agencies. Failure to report can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay. Keep records of all changes and communications to avoid issues[^6].
SNAP work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents start in some Oregon counties in October 2025 and statewide in January 2026. If you have a disability, you may be exempt. Contact ODHS for details.
Oregon residents with disabilities can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. In 2025, you can contribute up to $15,060 or your total wages, whichever is less.
Yes, if your Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome meets Social Security's disability criteria, you can qualify for SSI or SSDI. Oregon also has state-specific programs like PERS disability and Medicaid waivers for those with qualifying conditions.
The federal SSI income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Oregon may have additional state-specific limits for Medicaid and other programs.
You can apply for SSI/SSDI online, by phone, or in person through the SSA. For Oregon-specific programs, contact the Oregon Department of Human Services or PERS. Gather medical records and other required documents before applying.
Able-bodied adults without dependents must work, volunteer, or train at least 80 hours per month to remain eligible for SNAP. Exemptions exist for those with disabilities. These requirements start in some counties in October 2025 and statewide in January 2026.
Yes, but there are limits. For PERS disability, you can earn up to 10% of your previous monthly salary in irregular income each month. For SSI/SSDI, earnings above the SGA limit of $1,620 per month may affect eligibility.
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.
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits. In 2025, you can contribute up to $15,060 or your total wages, whichever is less, to an ABLE account in Oregon.
Yes, Oregon offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. These can provide personal care, respite care, and other supports for people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome who meet eligibility criteria.
Failure to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay. It is crucial to report any changes to SSA and Oregon agencies to avoid issues.
Yes, children with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their condition meets the criteria. Benefits may continue into adulthood if the disability persists.
Report any changes in income, employment, or living situation promptly to SSA and Oregon agencies. Keep records of all changes and communications to avoid overpayments.
