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Maine • Chronic Illness
If you have diabetes in Maine and it prevents you from working, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Maine does not have its own state disability program, but offers supportive housing, independent living services, and work incentives for people with disabilities.
If you have diabetes that severely limits your ability to work, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes but can no longer work due to a health condition. SSI is for people with limited income and assets, including those who have never worked or haven't worked enough for SSDI. Both programs require medical proof that your diabetes prevents you from doing substantial work. Approval is not automatic and may require appeals.
Both programs have strict medical and financial requirements. The Social Security Administration (SSA) makes the final decision on eligibility.
Maine does not have a state disability program for adults with diabetes. Instead, Mainers rely on federal programs like SSDI and SSI for income support. However, Maine offers several supportive services for people with disabilities, including those with diabetes. These include the Independent Living Services Program, which helps people live independently, and the Section 811 Project Rental Assistance (PRA) Program, which provides affordable housing for extremely low-income people with disabilities. Maine also has advocacy organizations and counseling services to help with applications and appeals.
State-specific information is limited; start here: Maine.gov Disability Resources, MaineHousing Section 811 PRA.
Learn more about Medicaid Waivers (HCBS) Learn more about ABLE Accounts Learn more about SSI & SSDI Work Incentives
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Maine, you can open an ABLE account through the federal ABLE program. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like medical care, housing, education, and transportation. There are annual and lifetime contribution limits. Learn more about ABLE Accounts
SSI has strict income and asset limits. In 2025, the federal SSI limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. SSDI has no income limit, but your earnings must be below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level to qualify. In 2025, SGA is $1,550 per month for most people. Learn more about SSI Income Estimator
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to the SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you work, get married, or move. If you get an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver if you can't pay it back. Learn more about Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes
Contact Disability Rights Maine or MaineHealth Vocational Services for free advocacy and counseling. They can help you with applications, appeals, and work incentives.
Yes, if your diabetes prevents you from working, you may qualify for federal SSDI or SSI. Maine does not have its own state disability program. You must apply through the Social Security Administration and provide medical proof that your diabetes limits your ability to work.
Apply online at the SSA website, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. Gather medical records showing how diabetes affects your ability to work. If denied, appeal within 60 days. Contact MaineHealth Vocational Services for free counseling on work incentives.
You need medical records from your doctors showing how diabetes limits your ability to work. Include lab results, treatment plans, and notes on complications. The SSA will review your records to decide if you qualify for benefits.
No, Maine does not have a state disability program for adults with diabetes. Mainers rely on federal programs like SSDI and SSI for income support. Maine offers supportive services like housing and independent living, but not direct disability payments.
Maine offers supportive housing, independent living services, advocacy, and counseling for people with disabilities. These services help with housing, daily living, and navigating benefits. Contact MaineHousing, Disability Rights Maine, or MaineHealth Vocational Services for help.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Learn more about Medicaid Waivers (HCBS) Learn more about ABLE Accounts Learn more about SSI & SSDI Work Incentives
Yes, work incentives let you work and keep some benefits. MaineHealth Vocational Services offers free counseling on how work affects your benefits. Rules are different for SSI and SSDI, so get personalized advice.
The process can take several months to over a year, especially if you need to appeal. Most people are denied at first but approved after appeal. Keep all records and follow up on your application.
If denied, you have 60 days to appeal. Most people are denied at first but approved after appeal. Contact Disability Rights Maine for advocacy and help with the appeal process.
Yes, children with diabetes may qualify for SSI if their condition severely limits their ability to function. Parents must apply on their behalf and provide medical proof. Contact the SSA or Disability Rights Maine for help.
Yes, the Section 811 Project Rental Assistance (PRA) Program provides supportive housing for extremely low-income people with disabilities, including those with diabetes. Contact MaineHousing for more information.
