Mobility Impairment Benefits in Pennsylvania

To qualify for federal disability benefits in Pennsylvania, 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 those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require that your disability meets Social Security's definition and severity standards. You must provide medical evidence to prove your condition and its impact on your ability to work [1].

In Pennsylvania, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by the Bureau of Disability Determination Services (BDD) on behalf of the Social Security Administration. For SSDI, you need sufficient work credits based on your age and work history. For SSI, you must meet strict income and asset limits: $943/month for an individual, $1,415/month for a couple, and $2,000/$3,000 in assets in 2025. Pennsylvania residents with mobility impairments may also qualify for Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MAWD) if they are employed, have a qualifying disability, and meet income and resource limits. MAWD allows you to keep Medicaid coverage while working and earning more than typical SSI limits [1][2][4].

• Gather medical records and proof of income.
• Visit the Social Security website or local office to start SSDI/SSI.
• For MAWD, apply at your County Assistance Office or online.
• Submit all required documents and follow up as needed.
• Keep copies of everything you send [2][5].

• Step 1: Collect all medical records, proof of income, and identification.
• Step 2: Visit the Social Security Administration website or your local office to apply for SSDI or SSI. You can also start online at ssa.gov.
• Step 3: For Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MAWD), apply at your local County Assistance Office, online at COMPASS, by phone, or by mail. You will need proof of work and disability.
• Step 4: Submit all required documents, including pay stubs, award letters, and medical evidence.
• Step 5: Follow up with the agency if you do not hear back within a few weeks.
• Step 6: If denied, you can appeal the decision. Keep copies of all correspondence and documents [2][5].

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For those with a work history. No income or asset limits. Average monthly benefit is $1,537 in 2025, up to $3,822.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For those with limited income and resources. Maximum monthly benefit is $943 for an individual in 2025. SSI recipients get Medicaid in Pennsylvania.
• Medicare: Available to SSDI recipients after a 24-month waiting period.
• Medicaid: Available to SSI recipients immediately [1][2].

• Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MAWD): Allows Pennsylvanians with disabilities to work and keep Medicaid coverage. Eligibility requires employment, a qualifying disability, income below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level, and $10,000 or less in countable resources. MAWD covers doctor visits, prescriptions, hospital stays, and more.
• ABLE Accounts: Pennsylvania residents can open ABLE accounts to save for disability expenses without losing benefits. The account limit is increasing in 2026, allowing more people to qualify.
• SNAP: Food assistance for those with disabilities who meet income and work requirements. Disability benefit recipients are exempt from work requirements [3][4][5][6].

ABLE accounts let Pennsylvanians with disabilities save money without losing access to SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. You can use ABLE funds for qualified disability expenses like housing, transportation, and assistive technology. Starting in 2026, the age limit for opening an ABLE account increases from 26 to 46, expanding eligibility. Contributions grow tax-free and withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free [6].

• SSDI: No income or asset limits.
• SSI: $943/month for an individual, $1,415/month for a couple in 2025. $2,000/$3,000 in assets.
• MAWD: Income below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level, $10,000 or less in countable resources.
• SNAP: Work requirements may apply, but disability benefit recipients are exempt [1][3][4].

If your income or circumstances change, you must report it to Social Security or your state agency. Failure to report can result in overpayments and penalties. Keep records of all changes and report them promptly. For SSI, report changes in income, resources, or living arrangements. For SSDI, report changes in work status or medical condition [1].

• Pennsylvania Department of Human Services
  Phone: 1-800-692-7462

  Website

  For Medicaid, MAWD, and SNAP questions.
• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Website

  For SSDI and SSI applications and questions.

• Can I work while getting disability benefits in Pennsylvania?

  Yes, you can work while getting SSDI or SSI. SSDI has a trial work period where you can earn up to $1,550/month without losing benefits. SSI recipients can work but benefits may be reduced based on income. MAWD allows you to work and keep Medicaid coverage [1][4].

• What medical evidence do I need for a mobility impairment claim?

  You need detailed medical records showing your diagnosis, treatment, and how your mobility impairment affects your ability to work. This includes doctor's notes, test results, and therapy records. The more evidence you provide, the stronger your claim [2].

• How do I apply for Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MAWD)?

  You can apply for MAWD at your local County Assistance Office, online at COMPASS, by phone, or by mail. You will need proof of work, disability, income, and resources. MAWD lets you keep Medicaid while working [4][5].

• Can I get both SSDI and SSI in Pennsylvania?

  Yes, if your SSDI benefit is low, you may qualify for both SSDI and SSI. This is called concurrent benefits. SSI will supplement your income up to the federal benefit rate [1].

• What is the income limit for SSI in Pennsylvania?

  In 2025, the income limit for SSI is $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple. There are also asset limits of $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple [1].

• Do I need a work history to get SSI?

  No, SSI is need-based and does not require a work history. You must have limited income and resources and meet the disability criteria [1][2].