People with Muscular Dystrophy in Wisconsin can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and work supports. Disability Benefit Specialists at local Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) help with applications and appeals.
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. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require a medical condition that prevents substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Muscular Dystrophy is listed as a qualifying condition in the Social Security Blue Book under Section 11.13 for neurological disorders[9].
In Wisconsin, adults ages 18–59 with Muscular Dystrophy can get help from Disability Benefit Specialists at local Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs). These specialists assist with Medicaid, Medicare, FoodShare, and other public and private benefits. Wisconsin Medicaid offers programs like Family Care Partnership and IRIS for long-term care at home. To qualify for Medicaid, you must meet income and asset limits and have a qualifying disability. Children with Muscular Dystrophy may also qualify for Medicaid and SSI if their family meets income requirements[7][8].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use ABLE funds for housing, transportation, personal assistance, assistive technology, and health care. Wisconsin residents can open an ABLE account through the state program[6].
For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you must not earn more than the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit. In 2025, the SGA limit is $2,075 per month for most people. For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month in 2025, but Wisconsin may have higher limits for some programs[3][9].
You must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Annual reporting is required for disability benefits. If you receive an overpayment, you may be able to request a waiver or set up a repayment plan[3].
Contact your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) for free help with benefits applications, appeals, and understanding your rights.
You may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) if you have a work history, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if you have limited income. Both programs provide monthly payments for people unable to work due to Muscular Dystrophy[9].
Apply for Medicaid through Access Wisconsin or with help from your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). You will need to provide proof of disability, income, and assets[7][8].
Yes, but your earnings must be below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit. In 2025, the SGA limit is $2,075 per month. Working may affect your benefits, so report all changes to Social Security[3][9].
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. You can save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Wisconsin residents can open an ABLE account through the state program[6].
Yes, you must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Annual reporting is required for disability benefits. If you receive an overpayment, you may be able to request a waiver or set up a repayment plan[3].
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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Children with Muscular Dystrophy may qualify for Medicaid and SSI if their family meets income requirements. SSDI benefits are also available for adults whose disability began before age 22[10].
Disability Benefit Specialists at ADRCs can help you understand and apply for benefits like Medicaid, Medicare, FoodShare, and SSI/SSDI. They can also help with appeals and understanding how work affects your benefits[1][4].
Medicaid is for people with low income and qualifying disabilities, while Medicare is for people who receive SSDI after a 24-month waiting period. Both programs cover medical care, but Medicaid also covers long-term supports[8].
Yes, Disability Benefit Specialists can help you apply for programs like FoodShare and housing/utility assistance. Medicaid may also cover some home and community-based services[4].
If your benefit is suspended, contact your local ADRC or Social Security office. You may need to provide updated medical records or complete annual reporting forms to restore your benefits[3].
