People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Utah may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid. ALS is considered a severe disability, which can speed up eligibility and approval. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key programs for Utah residents.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in the U.S., you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months, and meet the work credit requirements (usually 20 credits in the last 10 years)[^1]. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources and meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability[^1].
ALS is considered a severe disability and is included in the Compassionate Allowances program, which can speed up the application process and approval for benefits[^1].
In Utah, people with ALS may qualify for Medicaid if they meet income and disability requirements. Utah’s Medicaid Aged, Blind or Disabled Programs provide medical assistance to those who are disabled, including those receiving SSI or SSDI benefits[^4]. If you are not on SSI or SSDI, the State Medicaid Medical Review Board can determine disability without considering substantial gainful employment[^4].
Utah also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help people with ALS live independently[^4].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for benefits like SSI and Medicaid. In 2025, you or others can contribute up to $19,000 per year to an ABLE account (or $34,650 if you work and your employer doesn’t contribute to your retirement account)[^6].
It is important to report any changes in income, employment, or health to the Social Security Administration and Medicaid to avoid overpayments. If you receive an overpayment, you may be required to repay the excess amount. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person[^1].
ALS is included in the Compassionate Allowances program, which can speed up the application process and approval for SSDI and SSI benefits[^5].
Utah offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help people with ALS live independently[^6].
The SGA limit for SSDI in Utah in 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 per month for those who are blind. Earning above this limit may affect your benefits[^3][^5].
Yes, people with ALS in Utah may qualify for Medicaid if they meet income and disability requirements. Utah’s Medicaid Aged, Blind or Disabled Programs provide medical assistance to those who are disabled, including those with ALS[^4].
You can apply for SSDI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. ALS is a qualifying disability and may be approved quickly through the Compassionate Allowances program[^1].
Medicaid waivers in Utah provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities, including those with ALS. These waivers can help with home care, personal care, and other services[^4].
Yes, you can work while receiving SSDI, but your earnings must not exceed the SGA limit. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for those who are blind[^3][^5].
An ABLE account in Utah is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities, including those with ALS. You or others can contribute up to $19,000 per year (or $34,650 if you work and your employer doesn’t contribute to your retirement account)[^6].
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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You can report changes in income or health online, by phone, or in person to the Social Security Administration and Medicaid. Reporting changes helps avoid overpayments and ensures you receive the correct amount of benefits[^1].
The Compassionate Allowances program is a fast-tracked approval process for certain severe disabilities, including ALS. This can speed up the application process and approval for SSDI and SSI benefits[^1].
Yes, you may be able to get both SSDI and SSI if you meet the eligibility requirements for both programs. SSDI is based on work history, while SSI is based on income and resources[^1].
If you earn more than the SGA limit, your SSDI benefits may be suspended or terminated. If your earnings drop below the SGA limit, you may be able to receive benefits again[^3][^5].
