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Pennsylvania • Chronic Illness
Pennsylvania offers several benefits for people with diabetes, including federal disability programs (SSDI and SSI), state Medicaid waivers, and special work incentives. Eligibility depends on your income, assets, and work history. This guide explains how to apply and what benefits you may qualify for.
People with diabetes may qualify for federal disability benefits if their condition prevents them from working. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two main programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). To qualify for SSDI, you must have a work history and enough Social Security credits. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require that your diabetes causes significant limitations that last at least one year or result in death [1].
In Pennsylvania, residents with diabetes may also qualify for state-specific programs like Medical Assistance for Workers with Disabilities (MAWD). MAWD is for working individuals ages 16–64 with chronic conditions, including diabetes, and income under 250% of the Federal Poverty Level. You must also have less than $10,000 in resources. MAWD provides health insurance coverage and allows you to work while maintaining benefits. Eligibility is determined by your local County Assistance Office [5].
To apply for diabetes benefits in Pennsylvania:
Federal programs for people with diabetes in Pennsylvania include:
Pennsylvania offers several state-specific programs for people with diabetes:
ABLE accounts let people with diabetes save money without affecting eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. You can contribute up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit) and use funds for qualified disability expenses. Withdrawals for these expenses are tax-free. Pennsylvania residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program [6].
SSDI recipients can earn up to $1,620/month (non-blind) in 2025 without losing benefits. Earning over $1,160/month triggers a trial work period. SSI recipients face benefit reductions if they earn more than $943/month (individual) or $1,415/month (couple) [1][4].
It’s important to report any changes in income or resources to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to repay the excess. Always notify the SSA or your local County Assistance Office of any changes in your situation [1].
Contact your local County Assistance Office or call the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services at 1-866-550-4355 for help with applications and eligibility questions.
Yes, diabetes can qualify for disability benefits if it severely limits your ability to work. You must meet the SSA’s definition of disability and provide medical evidence of your condition [1].
SSDI is based on work history and Social Security contributions. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs can provide financial assistance for people with diabetes [1].
You can apply for Medicaid in Pennsylvania through your local County Assistance Office, online at compass.state.pa.us, or by phone. You’ll need to provide proof of income, resources, and disability [5].
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits. SSDI recipients can earn up to $1,620/month in 2025 without losing benefits. SSI recipients face benefit reductions if they earn more than $943/month [1][4].
MAWD is a state health insurance program for working individuals with chronic conditions, including diabetes. It provides coverage for those with income under 250% of the Federal Poverty Level and less than $10,000 in resources [5].
Yes, Pennsylvania offers work incentives like the trial work period for SSDI recipients and MAWD for working individuals with disabilities. These programs allow you to earn income without losing benefits [1][5].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
You can open an ABLE account in Pennsylvania through the state’s ABLE program. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are also tax-free [6].
If your income changes, you must report it to the SSA or your local County Assistance Office. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments and the need to repay excess benefits [1].
Yes, some people with diabetes may qualify for both SSDI and SSI if their SSDI benefit is low. This is called concurrent benefits and can help supplement your income [1].
You’ll need medical records showing how diabetes affects your ability to work. This includes doctor’s notes, lab results, and treatment history [2].
