People with Short Stature in Oregon may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, state programs, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Oregon, you must have a medically determinable impairment that prevents you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA). For adults, SGA in 2025 is $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind). You need enough work credits for SSDI (usually 20 in the last 10 years). SSI is for those with limited income and resources ($2,000 for an individual, $3,000 for a couple). Children with disabilities must have a condition that severely limits their activities. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the "Blue Book" to evaluate medical conditions, including Short Stature if it causes major functional issues. [^1][^2][^3]
Oregon follows federal rules for SSI and SSDI eligibility, but state programs may have extra requirements. For example, Oregon’s PERS disability program now allows members to earn up to 10% of their previous monthly salary from irregular or unpredictable work without losing benefits. If earnings exceed this, benefits stop. Oregon also has Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, which can help with home and community-based services. Recent changes to Oregon law may affect how disability is defined for certain jobs, like police and firefighters, but these do not impact general SSI/SSDI eligibility. [^4][^5]
Oregon’s ABLE program lets people with disabilities save up to $15,060 in 2025 from wages, or their total wages if less. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid. [^8]
For SSI in 2025, the resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. For SSDI, earnings must be below $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind). Oregon PERS disability recipients can earn up to 10% of their previous monthly salary from irregular work without losing benefits. [^2][^4]
Always report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you get too much, you may have to pay it back. Oregon’s PERS disability recipients must report if their irregular earnings exceed 10% of their previous salary. [^6]
Always report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits accurate.
Contact the Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) or local nonprofits for help finding resources and support.
Yes, if Short Stature causes significant functional limitations that prevent you from doing substantial work. The Social Security Administration will review your medical records and how your condition affects daily life. [^1][^2]
For SSI, you must have less than $2,000 in resources. For SSDI, earnings must be below $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind). Oregon PERS disability recipients can earn up to 10% of their previous monthly salary from irregular work. [^2][^4]
The Oregon ABLE account lets people with disabilities save up to $15,060 in 2025 from wages, or their total wages if less. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid. [^8]
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or at a local SSA office. Oregon’s Disability Determination Services will review your case. You may need to provide medical records and work history. [^1]
Medicaid waivers help people with disabilities get home and community-based services. These can include personal care, respite, and more. [^7]
If you earn over the limit, you may lose benefits or have to repay overpayments. Oregon PERS disability recipients must report if irregular earnings exceed 10% of their previous salary. [^4][^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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Yes, Oregon has the Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) and local groups like the Central Oregon Disability Support Network. They can help you find government and community resources. [^12][^13]
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to the Social Security Administration or Oregon PERS. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate. [^6]
SSI is for those with limited income and resources. SSDI is for those with enough work credits. Both require a qualifying disability. [^2]
Yes, if Short Stature causes severe functional limitations. Children must meet SSA’s definition of disability for their age group. [^2]
