Pennsylvania residents with Parkinson’s Disease can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSDI, SSI, Medicaid, and special programs for workers with disabilities. Eligibility depends on work history, income, assets, and medical criteria. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Parkinson’s Disease, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. Parkinson’s Disease is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book under neurological disorders, so it often meets these criteria if symptoms are advanced.
For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need enough work credits based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. Most people need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before disability began. There are no income or asset limits for SSDI.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources. You do not need a work history. In 2025, the income limit is $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple. The asset limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. Both programs require medical evidence showing your Parkinson’s Disease prevents you from working[1][2][7].
In Pennsylvania, residents with Parkinson’s Disease can apply for SSDI and SSI through the federal Social Security Administration. The state’s Bureau of Disability Determination Services (BDD) reviews medical evidence to decide if your condition meets federal disability standards. Pennsylvania also offers Medical Assistance for Workers with Disabilities (MAWD), which lets you work and earn more while keeping full Medicaid coverage. To qualify for MAWD, you must be employed, have a disability that meets SSA standards, be between 16 and 64 years old, and have income below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level and $10,000 or less in countable resources. Parkinson’s Disease is considered a qualifying disability for MAWD[4][5].
ABLE accounts let Pennsylvanians with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and transportation. Starting in 2026, more people will qualify for ABLE accounts, including those whose disability began before age 46. You can open an ABLE account through the Pennsylvania ABLE program[6].
If your income or work status changes, you must report it to Social Security. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you get an overpayment, you may be able to request a waiver or set up a repayment plan[1][7].
Contact your local County Assistance Office or call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 for help with your application.
Yes, if your Parkinson’s Disease is severe enough to prevent you from working and meets Social Security’s disability criteria. You can apply for SSDI or SSI based on your work history and financial situation[1][2][7].
SSDI is based on work history and Social Security taxes paid. SSI is for those with limited income and assets. Both programs provide monthly payments, but SSI also gives you Medicaid[1][2].
Gather medical records and proof of work history, then apply online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. The Pennsylvania Bureau of Disability Determination Services will review your medical evidence[2][5].
Yes, SSDI recipients can earn up to $1,550/month during a trial work period without losing benefits. SSI recipients can work but face benefit reductions. MAWD lets you work and keep Medicaid coverage[1][4].
SSDI recipients get Medicare after 24 months. SSI recipients get Medicaid immediately. MAWD lets you work and keep Medicaid coverage. Medicaid waivers may cover home care and therapy[1][4][5].
SSDI recipients can earn up to $1,550/month during a trial work period. SSI recipients face benefit reductions if they earn more than $943/month. MAWD has higher income limits[1][4].
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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An ABLE account lets you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and transportation[6].
SSDI requires a work history. SSI does not. If you have not worked enough, you may still qualify for SSI if you have limited income and assets[1][2].
You can appeal within 60 days. Consider getting help from a disability advocate or attorney. You may need to provide more medical evidence or attend a hearing[2][7].
Report changes to your income or work status to Social Security online, by phone, or in person. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties[1][7].
