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Oregon • Physical/Mobility
People with Muscular Dystrophy in Oregon can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSDI, SSI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key changes 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 earned in the last 10 years. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for most people, or $2,700 if you are blind. Children with disabilities may also qualify for SSI if they meet medical and financial criteria. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews all applications and makes the final decision. [^1][^2]
Oregon has specific rules for disability benefits. For example, police and firefighter members of the Oregon Public Service Retirement System (OPSRP) are now 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 income exceeds 10%, benefits end. Oregon also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including those with Muscular Dystrophy, to help with home and community-based services. [^3][^4]
Oregon offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities. These accounts let you save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. You can use funds for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, and transportation. Learn more about Oregon ABLE accounts and how to open one. [^11]
For SSI in 2025, the income limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. For SSDI, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for most people, or $2,700 if you are blind. 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. [^12][^13]
It’s important to report any changes in income or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to the Social Security Administration as soon as possible. [^14]
Oregon’s disability rules for police and firefighters changed in 2025. Now, they are considered disabled if they can’t do their previous job, not any job. They can also earn up to 10% of their previous salary in irregular income without losing benefits.
The main federal disability benefits in Oregon are SSDI and SSI. SSDI is for those with enough work history, while SSI is for those with limited income and resources. Both programs provide monthly payments to help with living expenses.
You can apply for disability benefits online at SSA.gov or in person at a Social Security office. Oregon’s Disability Determination Services will review your application and make a decision based on your medical and financial information.
In 2025, the income limit for SSI in Oregon is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. If your income is above this limit, you may not qualify for SSI.
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits, but there are limits. For SSI, you can earn up to the SGA limit ($1,620 per month in 2025). For OPSRP disability benefits, you can earn up to 10% of your previous monthly salary in irregular or unpredictable income.
Medicaid waivers in Oregon help people with disabilities live in the community instead of institutions. These waivers can cover home care, respite, and other services. You must meet medical and financial criteria to qualify.
You can open an ABLE account in Oregon through the state’s ABLE program. These accounts let you save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most up-to-date rules and eligibility.
If your income changes, you must report it to the Social Security Administration. If your income goes above the limit, you may lose benefits or have to pay back overpayments.
Yes, police and firefighters in Oregon are now considered disabled if they cannot perform the work they did at the time of disability. They can also earn up to 10% of their previous monthly salary in irregular or unpredictable income without losing benefits.
Families of children with Muscular Dystrophy in Oregon can access SSI, Medicaid waivers, and support services through the Aging and Disability Resource Connection. These programs help with medical care, home care, and other needs.
If you suspect fraud or overpayments for disability benefits, you can report it to the Social Security Administration. Reporting helps protect the integrity of the program and ensures benefits go to those who need them.
