Pennsylvania residents with amputation can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and special programs for people with physical disabilities.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for those with a work history and enough Social Security credits. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs use the same medical definition of disability, which includes amputation if it severely limits your ability to work [1].
For SSDI, you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began [6]. For SSI, there are strict income and asset limits: in 2025, the limit is $943/month for an individual and $2,000 in assets [1].
Pennsylvania residents with amputation may qualify for both federal and state benefits. SSI recipients automatically get Medical Assistance (Medicaid) in Pennsylvania, which covers healthcare without a waiting period. SSDI recipients must wait 24 months for Medicare [1].
Pennsylvania also offers the Medical Assistance for Workers with Disabilities (MAWD) program, which has higher income and asset limits than regular Medicaid and is designed for people with disabilities who want to work. To qualify, you must have a disability (such as amputation) and be working, with proof of both required when applying [4].
Some people with amputation may also qualify for Medicaid waivers that cover home care, assistive devices, and other supports [1].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. Withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are tax-free. In Pennsylvania, you can open an ABLE account to save for things like assistive devices, housing, and transportation. The disability must have started before age 26, but this will increase to age 46 in 2026 [5].
You must report any changes in income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. This includes starting or stopping work, changes in living situation, or changes in medical condition. Failure to report can result in overpayments that you may have to repay. For more information, see the guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes [1].
Contact your local County Assistance Office or call (866) 550-4355 for help with your application. You can also apply online at COMPASS.state.pa.us.
Yes, some people with amputation qualify for both SSI and SSDI if their SSDI benefit is low. SSI can supplement your income up to the federal benefit rate. This is called concurrent benefits [1].
Amputation can qualify you for disability benefits if it severely limits your ability to work. The Social Security Administration uses a medical guide to determine if your condition meets the criteria [1].
You can prove your amputation with medical records, a doctor’s letter, or an SSDI award letter. The Bureau of Disability Determination Services will review your medical evidence [2][4].
Yes, SSDI recipients can earn up to $1,550/month during a trial work period without losing benefits. SSI recipients can work but face benefit reductions if they earn over the income limit [1].
SSI recipients get Medicaid immediately. SSDI recipients get Medicare after 24 months. Both programs cover medical care, but Medicaid may cover more services for people with disabilities [1].
MAWD is a Medicaid program for people with disabilities who want to work. It has higher income and asset limits than regular Medicaid and requires proof of both disability and work status [4].
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, you can open an ABLE account to save for qualified disability expenses without losing SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free [5].
The process can take several months. The Bureau of Disability Determination Services reviews your medical eligibility, and you may need to provide additional information [2].
You can appeal the decision. The appeals process includes several levels, and you may want to seek help from a disability advocate or attorney [2].
You do not need a lawyer to apply, but legal help can be useful if your claim is denied or if you have a complex case [2].
