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Wisconsin • Neurodegenerative
People with Parkinson’s Disease in Wisconsin can access federal and state disability benefits, including Social Security (SSI/SSDI), Medicaid, and work support programs. Eligibility depends on medical status, income, and work history. Wisconsin offers specialized help through local agencies and advocates.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Wisconsin, you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and enough work credits. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your income and assets must be below certain limits. Parkinson’s Disease is listed in Social Security’s Blue Book under neurological disorders, so it may qualify if symptoms are severe enough to prevent work for at least 12 months [9].
Both SSDI and SSI require a medical review to confirm your diagnosis and how it affects your ability to work. You must also meet age and citizenship requirements. Children with Parkinson’s may qualify for benefits as dependents if a parent receives SSDI [10].
In Wisconsin, adults ages 18–59 with Parkinson’s Disease can get help from Disability Benefit Specialists (DBS) at local Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs). These specialists help people apply for and keep public benefits like Medicaid, SSI, SSDI, Medicare, and FoodShare. You do not need to be a Wisconsin resident to get help from ADRCs, but you must live in Wisconsin to receive most state benefits [1].
Wisconsin also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can help people with Parkinson’s stay at home instead of moving to a nursing home. These waivers have specific eligibility rules, including income and asset limits, and may require a care plan [8].
If you work for a Wisconsin public employer, you may qualify for Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) disability benefits if you become disabled before retirement age. These benefits provide income if you can’t work due to Parkinson’s Disease [3].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. In Wisconsin, you can open an ABLE account to pay for disability-related expenses like medical care, housing, and education. The account grows tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed [3].
For SSI, your income and assets must be below certain limits. In 2025, the limit for working while receiving WRS disability benefits is $20,757 per year. If you earn more, your benefits may be suspended. Medicaid and FoodShare have their own income and asset limits, which change each year [3].
If you get too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Always report changes in income, address, or health status to avoid overpayments. Wisconsin agencies will send you forms each year to update your information. If you get an overpayment notice, contact your local ADRC for help [3].
Contact your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) for free help with disability benefits applications, appeals, and questions.
Yes, Parkinson’s Disease can qualify for SSDI if it meets Social Security’s disability criteria. You must have a severe case that prevents you from working for at least 12 months and have enough work credits [9].
SSI is for people with low income and limited assets, while SSDI is for those with a work history. Both can help people with Parkinson’s Disease, but eligibility rules are different [9].
You can apply for Medicaid online or through your local county office. You’ll need to provide proof of income, assets, and your Parkinson’s diagnosis. Medicaid can help pay for health care and long-term care [7].
Medicaid waivers help people with Parkinson’s Disease get home care and other supports to live at home. These programs have income and asset limits and may require a care plan [8].
Yes, but there are limits. If you earn more than $20,757 in 2025, your WRS disability benefits may be suspended. SSI and SSDI also have work incentives and rules [3].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. You can use it for disability-related expenses like medical care and housing [3].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Contact your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). Disability Benefit Specialists can help you apply for and keep benefits like Medicaid, SSI, SSDI, and Medicare [1].
If your benefits are denied, you can appeal. Disability Benefit Specialists at ADRCs can help you with the appeal process and represent you in hearings [1].
Yes, children with Parkinson’s Disease may qualify for SSI or as dependents if a parent receives SSDI. You’ll need to provide medical records and proof of income [10].
Wisconsin offers Medicaid waivers and caregiver support programs. Contact your local ADRC for help finding resources and services for caregivers [8].
