People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Pennsylvania can access federal and state disability benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. ALS is considered a severe disability, often qualifying for expedited review and immediate Medicare.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with ALS, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. ALS is considered a severe condition, so SSA often fast-tracks applications for ALS. You must have a medical diagnosis and show that your condition prevents you from working and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough Social Security work credits. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require that your disability meets SSA’s criteria for severity and duration [1].
In Pennsylvania, ALS is recognized as a qualifying disability for both federal and state programs. Pennsylvania residents with ALS may qualify for SSDI, SSI, and Medical Assistance (Medicaid). SSI recipients automatically get Medicaid, which covers most healthcare needs. Pennsylvania also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with long-term care. The state’s Medical Assistance for Workers with Disabilities (MAWD) program allows higher income and asset limits for those who work. ALS patients may also qualify for ABLE accounts, which let you save money without losing benefits [1][4][5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. In Pennsylvania, you can save up to $18,000 per year (2025) in an ABLE account. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as housing, education, and assistive technology. ABLE accounts offer tax-free growth and withdrawals for qualified expenses. The age limit for eligibility will increase to 46 in 2026 [5].
You must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to SSA and Medicaid to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit reductions. Report changes promptly to ensure you receive the correct amount of benefits. Keep records of all reports and correspondence [1][3].
ALS is considered a severe disability, so your application may be fast-tracked by the Social Security Administration. This can help you get benefits faster.
If you qualify for SSI in Pennsylvania, you automatically get Medicaid, which covers most healthcare needs for low-income residents with disabilities.
Yes, ALS is considered a severe disability and often qualifies for expedited review by the Social Security Administration. This means your application may be processed faster than other disabilities [1][2].
Yes, you can work while receiving SSDI or SSI, but there are limits. SSDI allows a trial work period with earnings up to $1,550/month (2025) without losing benefits. SSI benefits are reduced as income increases [1].
SSDI is based on work history and Social Security taxes paid. SSI is based on financial need, with strict income and asset limits. Both programs provide benefits for ALS, but eligibility and benefit amounts differ [1].
If you qualify for SSI, you automatically get Medicaid in Pennsylvania. Medicaid covers most healthcare needs for low-income residents with disabilities [1].
Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for long-term care. They can help with personal care, therapy, and assistive devices for ALS patients who meet eligibility requirements [4].
You can apply for a PA ABLE account online through the state’s ABLE program website. You must have a disability that began before age 46 (as of 2026) and meet other eligibility requirements [5].
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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The SSI income limit is $943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples (2025). Asset limits are $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples [1].
Yes, if your SSDI benefit is low, you may qualify for both SSDI and SSI. This is called concurrent benefits and can help supplement your income up to the federal SSI rate [1].
MAWD is a Medicaid program for workers with disabilities. It allows higher income and asset limits than regular Medicaid. Premiums are 5% of countable income, and it covers most healthcare needs [4].
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to SSA and Medicaid promptly. Keep records of all reports and correspondence to avoid overpayments and benefit reductions [1][3].
