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Utah • Chronic Illness
If you have kidney disease in Utah, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what programs are available in 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with kidney 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 12 months or result in death. For kidney disease, SSA looks at factors like kidney function, dialysis needs, and complications. You generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years, to qualify for SSDI. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Children with kidney disease may also qualify if their condition meets SSA’s criteria 1.
In Utah, people with kidney disease may qualify for Medicaid if they meet income and disability criteria. Utah’s Medicaid Aged, Blind or Disabled (ABD) program covers those who receive SSI or Social Security Disability benefits. If you do not get SSI or SSDI, the State Medicaid Medical Review Board can decide if you are disabled. Kidney disease is considered a qualifying disability if it meets SSA’s definition. Utah also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with care needs related to kidney disease. These programs may have waiting lists and specific eligibility rules 2.
Utah offers several programs for people with kidney disease:
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. In Utah, you can contribute up to $19,000 a year (or $34,650 if you work and your employer doesn’t contribute to your retirement account) in 2025. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like medical care, education, and housing. Earnings grow tax-free, and withdrawals are tax-free if used for qualified expenses.
You must report changes in income, work, or health status to SSA and Medicaid. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments, which you may have to repay. Report changes as soon as possible to avoid penalties. If you receive an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan.
Contact your local Department of Workforce Services office or a disability advocate for help with your application.
Sign up for updates from the Social Security Administration and Utah Medicaid to stay informed about benefit changes.
Yes, if your kidney disease is severe enough to prevent you from working and meets SSA’s disability criteria. You may qualify for SSDI, SSI, or Medicaid in Utah.
In 2025, you can earn up to $1,620/month (or $2,700 if blind) without losing SSDI benefits. SSI has lower income limits.
You need lab results, dialysis records, doctor’s notes, and any other medical records that show your kidney disease and its impact on your ability to work.
Yes, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. Work incentives let you keep benefits while you try to work.
You can apply online at jobs.utah.gov, by phone, or in person at a Department of Workforce Services office. You’ll need to provide income and medical information.
Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities. They may include personal care, respite care, and more.
Yes, Utah residents with disabilities can open ABLE accounts. You can contribute up to $19,000 a year (or $34,650 if you work and your employer doesn’t contribute to your retirement account) in 2025.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
If you get an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan. Report changes as soon as possible to avoid overpayments.
Yes, you must report changes in income, work, or health status to SSA and Medicaid. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments.
Yes, children with kidney disease may qualify for SSI or SSDI if their condition meets SSA’s criteria. Benefits may continue after age 18 if the disability continues.
