If you have Multiple Sclerosis in Oregon, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, state programs, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available in 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medically determinable disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months and meet the required work credits (usually 20 credits in the last 10 years)[^1]. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must meet SSA medical criteria[^2]. Multiple Sclerosis is listed in the SSA Blue Book under neurological disorders, so if your symptoms match the listing, you may qualify automatically[^3].
If you are blind or have a severe disability, you may qualify for higher monthly earnings limits. In 2025, SSDI recipients can earn up to $1,620 per month, or $2,700 if blind, without losing benefits[^2]. SSI recipients must have less than $2,000 in resources as an individual, or $3,000 as a couple[^2].
In Oregon, state disability programs may have different rules than federal programs. For example, the Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) recently changed its disability eligibility for police and firefighters, but these changes do not affect general state disability benefits for Multiple Sclerosis[^4]. Oregon residents may also qualify for Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services if they meet income and functional criteria[^5].
If you receive disability benefits and earn income, there are strict limits. For example, Oregon’s ABLE accounts allow up to $15,060 in additional work contributions in 2025, or your total wages, whichever is less[^6]. State agencies review applications for federal benefits, and you must report changes in income or resources to avoid overpayments[^7].
Recent federal funding cuts may affect some state programs, especially those supporting students with disabilities or SNAP benefits, so it’s important to stay informed about changes in 2025[^8].
Oregon’s ABLE Savings Program lets individuals with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing federal benefits. In 2025, you can contribute up to $15,060 from work income, or your total wages, whichever is less[^6]. ABLE accounts can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses[^6].
For SSI in 2025, individuals must have less than $2,000 in resources, couples less than $3,000[^2]. SSDI recipients can earn up to $1,620 per month, or $2,700 if blind, without losing benefits[^2]. Oregon’s ABLE accounts allow up to $15,060 in additional work contributions in 2025, or your total wages, whichever is less[^6].
You must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to SSA or ODHS to avoid overpayments[^7]. If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to repay the excess. Oregon’s guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes can help you stay compliant[^7].
Recent federal funding cuts may affect SNAP and other support programs. Check ODHS for updates and emergency resources.
Yes, if your Multiple Sclerosis meets SSA criteria and you have enough work credits. Apply online or at a local SSA office.
In 2025, SSI recipients must have less than $2,000 in resources as an individual, or $3,000 as a couple[^2].
Contact Oregon’s Medicaid office or Aging and Disability Resource Connection for information and application help[^5].
Yes, but there are limits. SSDI recipients can earn up to $1,620 per month, or $2,700 if blind, without losing benefits[^2].
An ABLE account lets you save for disability expenses without losing benefits. In 2025, you can contribute up to $15,060 from work income, or your total wages, whichever is less[^6].
Report changes to SSA or ODHS to avoid overpayments. Oregon’s guide on reporting changes can help you stay compliant[^7].
Oregon offers Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts for individuals with disabilities, including Multiple Sclerosis[^5][^6].
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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Funding cuts may affect SNAP and other support programs. Stay informed through ODHS and local agencies[^8].
Yes, you may qualify for SNAP food assistance if you meet income and resource limits[^8].
You can appeal within 60 days of denial. Contact SSA or ODHS for appeal instructions[^7].
