If you have a spinal cord injury in Oregon, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, state programs, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with a spinal cord injury, you must have a medically determinable impairment that prevents you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For SSDI, you need enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years). For SSI, your income and resources must be limited. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind). Children with disabilities may also qualify for benefits based on their own or a parent’s record.
The Social Security Administration uses the “Blue Book” to list qualifying conditions, including spinal cord injuries. Your medical records must show your condition meets or equals a listing.
In Oregon, people with spinal cord injuries may qualify for state-specific disability benefits and programs. The Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) offers disability benefits for public employees, including police and firefighters. As of 2025, PERS disability eligibility for these groups is based on whether the member is unable to perform the work they did at the time of disability, not any work for which they are qualified. 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 spinal cord injuries, to help with long-term care and support services. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) manages these programs and reviews applications for federal benefits.
Source: SSA.gov, 2025 Source: Oregon.gov/ODHS, 2025 Source: Oregon ABLE, 2025
Source: Oregon.gov/PERS, 2025 Source: Oregon.gov/ODHS, 2025 Source: Oregon ABLE, 2025
The Oregon ABLE Savings Program lets 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, to an ABLE account. ABLE accounts can be used for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and transportation.
Source: SSA.gov, 2025 Source: Oregon.gov/PERS, 2025
You must report changes in income, resources, or health to SSA and ODHS to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report changes as soon as possible to avoid penalties.
Contact the Oregon Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) for free help with applications and support.
Yes, but there are limits. For SSDI, you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month in 2025. For PERS disability, you can earn up to 10% of your previous monthly salary in irregular income. Exceeding these limits may end your benefits.
Contact the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) or visit their website. You will need to provide medical and financial information. ODHS will review your application and determine eligibility for Home and Community-Based Services waivers.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and transportation.
Yes, you must report changes in income, resources, or health to SSA and ODHS as soon as possible. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties.
Yes, children may qualify for SSI or SSDI based on their own or a parent’s record. They must have a qualifying disability and meet the program’s rules.
You can appeal the decision. Contact SSA or ODHS for information on the appeals process. You may need to provide additional medical evidence.
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 PERS disability eligibility for police and firefighters is based on whether they can do their previous job, not any job. They can earn up to 10% of their previous salary in irregular income without losing benefits.
The time varies, but it can take several months. You can check the status online or by calling SSA. If your case is referred for a hearing, it may take longer.
Yes, you may qualify for SNAP (food stamps) and housing assistance through Oregon’s Department of Human Services. Contact ODHS for more information.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those with enough work history. Both programs provide monthly benefits for people with disabilities.
