If you have rheumatoid arthritis in Utah, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI, Utah Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what to expect in 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), eligibility is based on limited income and resources, not work history. Rheumatoid arthritis must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least 12 months. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for those who are statutorily blind. If you earn more than this, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI cash benefits. Children with rheumatoid arthritis may also qualify for benefits if they meet the criteria for disability and their parent is receiving Social Security benefits. [^1][^2][^3]
In Utah, people with rheumatoid arthritis may also qualify for Medicaid waivers that provide home and community-based services (HCBS). These waivers help cover costs for personal care, therapy, and other supports. Eligibility for Medicaid waivers depends on your income, assets, and level of disability. Utah’s Division of Services for People with Disabilities (DSPD) manages these programs. You must meet both federal disability criteria and Utah’s specific requirements for waiver services. Some waivers have waiting lists, so it’s important to apply early. [^4][^5]
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. In Utah, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. The maximum annual contribution is $18,000 in 2025. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses. [^6]
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Utah may have additional limits for Medicaid and waiver programs. The SGA limit for SSDI is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for those who are statutorily blind. Earning more than these amounts may affect your benefits. [^1][^2][^3]
You must report changes in income, health, or living situation to Social Security and Medicaid to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to repay the excess. Reporting changes promptly helps ensure you receive the correct amount and avoid penalties. [^7]
Utah Medicaid waivers often have waiting lists. Apply as soon as you qualify to avoid delays in receiving services.
Gather all medical records, including doctor’s notes and test results, to support your disability claim.
Yes, if your rheumatoid arthritis is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. You must meet federal and Utah eligibility requirements.
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for those who are statutorily blind. Earning more than this may affect your disability benefits.
Contact the Division of Services for People with Disabilities (DSPD) to apply for Medicaid waivers. You must meet income, asset, and disability requirements. Some waivers have waiting lists.
Yes, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. If you earn more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind), your benefits may be suspended or terminated.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits.
Report changes in income, health, or living situation to Social Security and Medicaid as soon as possible to avoid overpayments and ensure you receive the correct amount of benefits.
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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Yes, children with rheumatoid arthritis may qualify for benefits if they meet the criteria for disability and their parent is receiving Social Security benefits.
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. Contact Social Security or Medicaid for information on the appeals process.
Yes, Utah offers work incentives through vocational rehabilitation services and other programs to help people with disabilities find and keep jobs.
The approval process can take several months. It’s important to apply early and provide all required documentation to avoid delays.
