People in Alabama with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with ADHD, your condition must severely limit your ability to work or function daily. For SSDI, you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources, and meet medical criteria. ADHD is evaluated under Social Security’s listings for neurodevelopmental disorders, and you must show marked limitations in areas like understanding, concentrating, or interacting with others [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
Children with ADHD may qualify for SSI if their condition meets the criteria for neurodevelopmental disorders and causes marked limitations in daily life. The state agency may request medical exams or school records to make a decision [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
In Alabama, people with ADHD may qualify for Medicaid through the Elderly and Disabled (E&D) Waiver if they meet the nursing facility level of care and financial limits. The income limit is $2,901 per month, and the resource limit is $2,000 as of the first day of each month. You must first apply for SSI or disability benefits through the Social Security Administration to determine if you meet disability requirements. Alabama also offers home and community-based services for those at risk of institutional care, which can include case management, personal care, and respite care [medicaid.alabama.gov, 2025-11-05].
Alabama’s approval rates and wait times for disability benefits can vary by office, so it’s helpful to know local trends when applying. Specialized disability advocates and attorneys in Alabama can help with the application process [citizensdisability.com, 2025-11-05].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Alabama, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s program. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, and transportation [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05; citizensdisability.com, 2025-11-05].
If your income or resources change, you must report it to Social Security or Medicaid. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay. Social Security and Medicaid have work incentives that allow you to keep benefits while working, but you must report your earnings and any changes in your condition [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05; medicaid.alabama.gov, 2025-11-05].
Contact a disability advocate or attorney in Alabama for help with your application. They can guide you through the process and help you gather the right documents.
Yes, ADHD can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it severely limits your ability to work or function daily. You must provide medical and school records to show how ADHD affects your life.
For 2025, the federal SSI payment is $943 per month for an individual. The resource limit is $2,000 for an individual. Alabama does not have a state supplement for SSI.
The SGA limit for non-blind individuals in 2025 is $1,620 per month. If you earn more than this, your SSDI benefits may be affected.
You can apply for Medicaid waivers through Alabama Medicaid by submitting Form 206 or applying online. You must provide proof of disability and financial eligibility.
Services include case management, personal care, respite care, adult day health, and more. These services are for people who are at risk of institutional care and want to receive services in the community.
Yes, children with ADHD may qualify for SSI if their condition meets the criteria for neurodevelopmental disorders and causes marked limitations in daily life. The state agency may request medical exams or school records.
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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An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. You can open an ABLE account in Alabama through the state’s program. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses.
The state agency may take 6 to 8 months to decide if your condition meets the criteria for disability. For some conditions, immediate SSI payments may be made for up to 6 months while the decision is pending.
You must report any changes in income or resources to Social Security or Medicaid. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay.
Yes, there are work incentives that allow people with disabilities to keep benefits while working. You must report your earnings and any changes in your condition to Social Security or Medicaid.
