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Rhode Island • Chronic Illness
People with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis in Rhode Island can access federal disability programs like SSI and SSDI, state Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), and expanded Medicaid options. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and work history. Rhode Island also offers paid leave and support for caregivers.
People with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis may qualify for federal disability benefits through SSI (Supplemental Security Income) or SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance). SSI is for those with limited income and assets, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid into Social Security. Both programs require a medical determination of disability. Eligibility is based on Social Security Administration rules, not state law. You must meet strict medical criteria and work history requirements. For more details, see the SSA website.
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In Rhode Island, people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis may qualify for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if they cannot work due to illness or injury. To qualify for TDI, you must have earned at least $18,000 in your base period or meet alternate criteria. TDI is funded by employee payroll deductions. You must be unemployed for at least 7 days due to a non-work-related illness.
Rhode Island also offers the Medicaid Buy-In for Working Disabled (Ticket to Work), which has no income or asset limits for ages 16–64. This program provides full Medicaid benefits and supports employment. For ages 65+, the Sherlock Plan applies with income and asset limits.
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Determine Federal Eligibility: Visit SSA.gov to check if you qualify for SSI or SSDI. You will need to provide medical evidence of your disability and work history.
Apply for TDI: Go to the RI Department of Labor and Training website. File an online application or request a paper form. You must provide proof of wages, employment, and medical documentation of your inability to work.
Apply for Medicaid Buy-In: Visit the RI Medicaid website. Apply for the Ticket to Work program if you are 16–64, or Sherlock Plan if 65+. Submit income, asset, and medical information.
Gather Documentation: Collect medical records, employment history, pay stubs, and any other required documents.
Submit Applications: Submit all forms online or by mail. Keep copies for your records.
Follow Up: Contact the agencies for updates. Respond promptly to requests for more information.
Appeal if Denied: If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal. Follow the instructions provided by the agency.
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Learn more about Medicaid vs Medicare
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Rhode Island offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities. These accounts allow you to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Contributions are tax-free, and funds can be used for qualified disability expenses. You must have a disability that began before age 26.
Learn more about ABLE Accounts
For SSI, federal income limits apply. For SSDI, there are no income limits but you must not engage in substantial gainful activity. For Medicaid Buy-In (Ticket to Work), there are no income or asset limits for ages 16–64. For Sherlock Plan, income limit is 250% FPL, asset limit $10,000 individual/$20,000 couple.
If you receive too much money from SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid, you must report it and may have to repay the overpayment. Report changes in income, assets, or living situation promptly to avoid penalties. Keep records of all payments and communications.
Contact the RI Department of Labor and Training or RI Medicaid for help with your application. They can answer questions and guide you through the process.
TDI provides weekly payments to Rhode Island workers who miss work due to a non-work-related illness or injury. The maximum weekly benefit is $1,103 (effective July 1, 2025). You must have paid into the fund and earned minimum wages.
Yes, Rhode Island's Medicaid Buy-In for Working Disabled (Ticket to Work) has no income or asset limits for ages 16–64. You can keep working and still get full Medicaid benefits.
Apply for SSI/SSDI at SSA.gov, TDI at the RI Department of Labor and Training, and Medicaid Buy-In at the RI Medicaid website. Gather medical records and employment history before applying.
SSI is for people with limited income and assets who are disabled, blind, or age 65+. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid into Social Security and are now disabled. Both require a medical determination of disability.
Yes, Rhode Island's Temporary Caregiver Insurance (TCI) offers up to 7 weeks of paid leave to care for a seriously ill loved one or bond with a new child.
For the Medicaid Buy-In for Working Disabled (Ticket to Work), there are no income or asset limits for ages 16–64. For the Sherlock Plan (ages 65+), income limit is 250% FPL, asset limit $10,000 individual/$20,000 couple.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult official sources or a professional for your specific situation.
An ABLE account lets you save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses. You must have a disability that began before age 26.
TDI provides up to 30 weeks of benefits for non-work-related illness or injury. You must be unemployed for at least 7 days due to your condition.
If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. Follow the instructions from the agency and provide any additional documentation they request.
Yes, Rhode Island's Ticket to Work program allows you to work and still receive Medicaid benefits. SSI and SSDI also have work incentives that let you try working without losing benefits.
