Pennsylvania offers a range of benefits for people with intellectual disabilities, including federal programs like SSI and SSDI, state Medicaid waivers, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
People with intellectual disabilities in Pennsylvania may qualify for two main federal programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). To qualify for SSDI, you must have a qualifying work history and enough Social Security work credits. SSDI has no income or asset limits. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require that your disability prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. SSI has strict income and asset limits: $943/month for an individual and $2,000 in assets in 2025. SSDI recipients can earn up to $1,550 monthly during a trial work period without losing benefits[1].
In Pennsylvania, SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medical Assistance (Medicaid), which provides immediate healthcare coverage. Pennsylvania also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS) for people with intellectual disabilities, allowing support outside institutions. The Medical Assistance for Workers with Disabilities (MAWD) program helps working individuals with disabilities keep health coverage if their income is under 250% of the Federal Poverty Level and they have less than $10,000 in resources. To qualify for these state programs, you must meet both federal disability criteria and Pennsylvania’s financial requirements[1][3][4].
Pennsylvania residents with intellectual disabilities can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. ABLE accounts allow up to $17,000 in annual contributions in 2025, with a total limit of $100,000 before SSI benefits are affected. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one[internal_link_able_accounts].
SSI has strict income limits: $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple in 2025. SSDI has no income limits, but there are work incentives during the trial work period. For Medicaid waivers and MAWD, income limits vary by program, but generally, MAWD requires income under 250% of the Federal Poverty Level[1][3].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to the Social Security Administration and Pennsylvania Department of Human Services to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to benefit reductions or repayment. Always report changes promptly to stay compliant[internal_link_overpayments_and_reporting].
Contact Disability Rights Pennsylvania for free legal help and guidance on applying for disability benefits in Pennsylvania[4].
Learn about work incentives that let you earn income without losing benefits[internal_link_work_incentives].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those with a qualifying work history and Social Security contributions. SSI has strict income and asset limits, while SSDI does not[1].
Yes, SSDI recipients can earn up to $1,550 monthly during a trial work period without losing benefits. SSI recipients can work, but their benefits may be reduced if their income exceeds the limit[1].
Apply for Medicaid waivers through your local County Assistance Office, online at compass.state.pa.us, or by phone at 1-866-550-4355. You will need to provide proof of disability and income[4].
MAWD is a state health insurance program for working individuals with disabilities, ages 16-64, with income under 250% of the Federal Poverty Level and less than $10,000 in resources. Premiums are 5% of countable income[3].
No, SSI is a need-based program and does not require a work history. You must meet strict income and asset limits and have a qualifying disability[1].
The approval process can take several months. It is important to apply as soon as possible and submit all required documents to avoid delays[2].
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, some people qualify for both programs if their SSDI benefit is low. SSI can supplement your income up to the federal benefit rate[1].
If denied, you have the right to appeal within 60 days. You can request a reconsideration, a hearing, or further review[2].
Yes, children with intellectual disabilities may qualify for SSI, Medicaid, and special education services. Parents should apply for SSI and Medicaid for their child[1].
Report changes to the Social Security Administration and Pennsylvania Department of Human Services promptly to avoid overpayments and benefit reductions[internal_link_overpayments_and_reporting].
