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Pennsylvania • Chronic Illness
If you have HIV/AIDS in Pennsylvania, you may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSDI or SSI), state Medicaid, and work support programs. These benefits help cover medical care, living costs, and employment needs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
People with HIV/AIDS in Pennsylvania may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if their condition prevents them from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. SSDI requires a work history and payment of Social Security taxes. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs use the Social Security Administration's definition of disability, which includes severe chronic illnesses like HIV/AIDS that limit your ability to work and earn a living [1].
In Pennsylvania, people with HIV/AIDS may also qualify for Medical Assistance (Medicaid), which covers medical care for those with low income and resources. If you receive SSI, you automatically qualify for Medicaid in Pennsylvania. The state also offers the Medical Assistance for Workers with Disabilities (MAWD) program, which helps people with chronic conditions like HIV/AIDS who are working but still need health coverage. MAWD eligibility requires income under 250% of the Federal Poverty Level and less than $10,000 in resources. You must be between 16 and 64 years old and have proof of disability, such as an SSDI award letter or a doctor's note [4].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. You can use ABLE funds for housing, education, and other needs. Pennsylvania offers ABLE accounts for residents with disabilities that started before age 26 [internal_links].
You must report changes in income, work, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Report changes to Social Security and your County Assistance Office. Overpayments can be repaid in installments or waived in some cases [internal_links].
Disability Rights Pennsylvania offers free help with applications and appeals. Call 1-800-692-7443 for support.
Yes, if HIV/AIDS prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. You may qualify for SSDI or SSI based on your work history and income [1][2].
No. You can work during a trial period and still get SSDI. SSI payments reduce as you earn more, but special rules help you keep some benefits [1].
If you get SSI, you automatically get Medicaid in Pennsylvania. Otherwise, apply through your local County Assistance Office or online at www.COMPASS.state.pa.us [4][5].
MAWD is state health insurance for working people with chronic conditions like HIV/AIDS. You must be 16-64, have income under 250% FPL, and less than $10,000 in resources [4].
Yes. People with HIV/AIDS who get SSI or SSDI are not subject to SNAP work requirements and can get food assistance [3].
You can appeal the decision. Contact Disability Rights Pennsylvania for help with the appeals process [7].
Submit medical records, a doctor's note, or an SSDI award letter showing your HIV/AIDS diagnosis and how it affects your ability to work [2][4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes. Disability Rights Pennsylvania offers free help with applications and appeals. Call 1-800-692-7443 for support [7].
You must report changes to Social Security and your County Assistance Office to avoid overpayments. Some programs have rules to help you keep benefits as you earn more [1].
Yes. Pennsylvania offers MAWD for working people with chronic conditions and Medicaid for those with low income. You may also qualify for SNAP and long-term care services [4][5].
