If you have a mobility impairment in Oregon, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what to expect in 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Oregon, you must have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that prevents you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA). For SSDI, you need enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years). For SSI, you must have limited income and resources (under $2,000 for an individual, $3,000 for a couple). In 2025, SGA is $1,620 per month for most people, or $2,700 if you are blind. Children with disabilities may also qualify for SSI if their condition severely limits daily activities. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the "Blue Book" to list qualifying conditions, including many mobility impairments. [^1][^2][^3]
Oregon has its own rules for state disability benefits. For example, police and firefighter members of the Oregon Public Service Retirement System (OPSRP) are considered disabled if they cannot perform the work they did at the time of disability, not any work. OPSRP members receiving disability benefits can earn up to 10% of their previous monthly salary in "irregular or unpredictable" income each month without losing benefits. If earnings exceed 10%, benefits end. Oregon also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can help with mobility-related care. State-specific eligibility may vary by program, so check with Oregon agencies for details. [^4][^5]
Oregon ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In 2025, you can contribute up to $15,060 or your total wages, whichever is less. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other disability-related expenses. [^7]
You must report changes in income, work, or health to SSA and Oregon agencies. Failure to report can result in overpayments and penalties. Use the SSA online portal or call your local office to report changes. [^4]
Oregon’s 2025 legislation changed disability eligibility for police and firefighters. They are now considered disabled if they cannot perform their previous job, not any job. OPSRP members can earn up to 10% of their previous monthly salary in "irregular or unpredictable" income per month without losing benefits. [^5]
The SSI resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. Income limits vary, but most people must have little or no income to qualify. [^2]
Yes, but your earnings must be below SGA ($1,620/month in 2025). OPSRP members can earn up to 10% of their previous monthly salary in "irregular or unpredictable" income per month without losing benefits. [^2][^5]
Apply through the Oregon Health Authority. Waivers can help with home care, mobility aids, and other services for people with disabilities. [^8]
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other disability-related expenses. [^7]
If you earn above SGA or the OPSRP 10% limit, you may lose benefits. Report changes to avoid overpayments and penalties. [^2][^5]
Yes, children with severe mobility impairments may qualify for SSI if their condition limits daily activities. [^2]
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.
SSDI is for those with enough work history; SSI is for those with limited income and resources. Both can help people with mobility impairments. [^2]
Report changes in income, work, or health to SSA and Oregon agencies. Use the SSA online portal or call your local office. [^4]
Yes, police and firefighters in Oregon are considered disabled if they cannot perform their previous job, not any job. They can earn up to 10% of their previous salary in "irregular or unpredictable" income per month. [^5]
You can appeal the decision. Contact SSA or Oregon Disability Determination Services for help with the appeals process. [^4]
