U.S. Department of Labor
Taking leave when you or your family member has a serious health condition
Official information about FMLA leave and serious health conditions.
Visit sourceLiving With ALS
Work, Money & Benefits
ALS can affect work, income, insurance, transportation, equipment access, and caregiver finances. Start with official sources and ask a social worker or benefits counselor for individualized help.
Start with the problem
What problem are you trying to solve?
This question box finds a relevant ALS Hub page. It does not diagnose or provide medical advice.
Seek immediate emergency medical help.If you cannot breathe, are choking and cannot clear it, have passed out, or have severe chest pain, call emergency services now.
Work and accommodations
Possible topics include employer accommodations, medical leave, disability leave, and insurance considerations. The right options depend on employment, location, plan documents, and medical needs.
Sources: Taking leave when you or your family member has a serious health condition
FMLA
The U.S. Department of Labor explains leave rights for eligible workers and families dealing with serious health conditions.
Sources: Taking leave when you or your family member has a serious health condition
Social Security disability
ALS may qualify for expedited Social Security processing under Compassionate Allowances policies. The official policy and an individual application are not the same thing; ask a qualified benefits counselor for help.
Sources: Compassionate Allowances — ALS
Medicare and Medicaid
Medicare eligibility can follow different pathways, including eligibility before age 65. Medicare, Medicaid, and durable medical equipment coverage rules depend on the person’s circumstances and plan.
Sources: Other ways to get Medicare · Medicare before 65
Veterans and other financial programs
Veterans should review VA ALS information and ask an accredited representative about benefits. Private disability insurance, employer long-term disability, life insurance, long-term-care insurance, caregiver financial programs, and state Medicaid rules require individualized review. Do not assume a benefit applies without checking the official program.
Sources: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Equipment funding
A social worker, case manager, DME supplier, or benefits counselor can help determine whether a device may involve a prescription, insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, an equipment-loan program, or direct purchase.
Sources: Mobility in ALS · Other ways to get Medicare
Sources & Further Reading
These source cards link directly to the original material. External websites open in a new tab.
Social Security Administration
Compassionate Allowances — ALS
Official Social Security policy information relevant to ALS disability claims.
Visit sourceMedicare.gov
Other ways to get Medicare
Official Medicare eligibility and enrollment pathways.
Visit sourceMedicare.gov
Medicare before 65
Official information about Medicare eligibility before age 65.
Visit sourceU.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Official VA information and benefits context for Veterans with ALS.
Visit sourceThis information is for education and does not replace individualized medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or emergency care.
Last reviewed: 09-30-2026
Medical information should be reviewed periodically as guidance, benefits, and equipment options change.