How SSDI Works in Missouri

SSDI is a federal program that provides monthly benefits to people who can no longer work due to a disability and who have a sufficient work history. Since SSDI is based on your past earnings and not your current financial situation, it does not directly reduce or block most state benefit programs in Missouri.

Programs That Can Combine With SSDI in Missouri

1. Missouri Medicaid

• If your SSDI income is low enough, you may qualify for Missouri Medicaid.
• Medicaid helps cover doctor visits, prescriptions, hospital stays, and other medical costs.
• Many SSDI recipients also use Medicaid to cover what Medicare doesn’t pay.

2. Medicare

• SSDI recipients automatically qualify for Medicare after a 24-month waiting period.
• This is federal, not state, but often works together with state Medicaid for dual coverage.

3. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/Food Stamps)

• Missouri residents on SSDI may still qualify for SNAP if household income and resources are within limits.
• SSDI counts as income, but eligibility depends on total household size and expenses.

4. Missouri Supplemental Aid Programs

• Some individuals may qualify for energy assistance programs, housing help, or transportation aid while on SSDI.
• These benefits are need-based and depend on your total income and resources.

Benefits That Do Not Combine With SSDI

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): You generally cannot receive full SSI and SSDI at the same time, but some people may receive a small SSI “top-up” if their SSDI payment is very low.
• Unemployment Benefits: In most cases, you cannot collect unemployment while on SSDI, because unemployment requires you to be ready and able to work.