This guide covers key federal and state benefits for Alabamians with Williams Syndrome, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, ABLE accounts, and local support programs. It explains how eligibility works, how to apply in Alabama, and where to get help.
Williams Syndrome is a rare genetic condition with intellectual and physical symptoms. Federal disability programs—SSI (Supplemental Security Income) and SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)—both require proof that your condition prevents substantial gainful work and meets Social Security’s medical criteria[1][5]. For SSI, you also must have limited income and resources ($2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples in 2025)[1]. For SSDI, you must have enough work credits, usually 40, including 20 in the last 10 years before your disability began[5]. Children with disabilities may get SSI if family income is low, and adults whose disability began before age 22 may qualify as a Disabled Adult Child (DAC) if a parent is retired, disabled, or deceased[5].
State-specific information is limited; start here: Alabama’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) evaluates all initial medical eligibility for both SSI and SSDI, but Alabama does not offer a state SSI supplement[1]. SSI recipients in Alabama are automatically enrolled in Medicaid[1]. The state coordinates with federal work incentive programs and vocational rehabilitation, but actual approval rates and wait times for hearings may vary by county and office[3]. For help navigating the process, contact your local Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC), which can screen for benefits, assist with applications, and connect you to local services[6].
Start your application for disability benefits in Alabama:
Step-by-step guide to applying for disability benefits in Alabama:
Federal disability programs available for Williams Syndrome in Alabama:
ABLE Accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility[1].
State programs and resources for Williams Syndrome in Alabama:
Alabama does not have a specific Medicaid waiver for Williams Syndrome, but you may qualify for broader Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waivers if you need long-term care supports.
You can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. In Alabama, there is no state-run ABLE program, but you can enroll in any state’s ABLE program. Earnings in the account grow tax-free, and up to $100,000 in ABLE savings does not count toward the SSI resource limit[1].
SSI income limits for 2025:
If your income, resources, or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security right away. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments, which you may have to pay back. Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes is crucial to maintaining your benefits. Work with your local ADRC or a benefits counselor if you need help reporting changes or handling overpayments[1].
Contact your local Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) in Alabama for free, personalized assistance with SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and other benefits. They can help you gather documents, complete applications, and connect you to services in your community[6].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources and no recent work history, while SSDI is for those who have paid into Social Security through work. Alabama residents who qualify for SSI get automatic Medicaid, but there is no state supplement. Both use the same medical criteria for disability[1].
Start by contacting your local Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) for free help. Apply online at ssa.gov or call Social Security. Gather medical and school records to support your claim. Alabama DDS will review your application and may request a medical exam[1][4][6].
No, Alabama does not provide a state supplement to the federal SSI benefit. However, SSI recipients in Alabama are automatically enrolled in Medicaid[1].
Yes. Adults whose disability began before age 22 may qualify as a Disabled Adult Child (DAC) on a parent’s Social Security record, even if they never worked. They must meet the adult disability criteria and have limited earnings[5].
For SSI, the limit is $943/month in 2025, with strict resource limits. For SSDI and DAC, the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit is $1,620/month (non-blind) or $2,700/month (blind). Earning more may risk your benefits[1][5][9].
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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ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for qualified expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid. You can use any state’s ABLE program, and funds above $100,000 may affect SSI but not Medicaid. This helps with future planning and independence[1].
Contact Alabama’s Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) at 1-800-AGE-LINE (1-800-243-5463) for free screening, application help, and referrals to local services for people with disabilities and their families[6].
It typically takes 6–8 months for a decision. In some cases, children with severe conditions may get immediate SSI payments while their case is reviewed. The process can vary by office and case complexity[4].
If your SSI or SSDI application is denied, you can appeal. First, request reconsideration. If denied again, you can ask for a hearing before an administrative law judge. Consider working with a disability advocate or attorney[1].
Yes, but your earnings must stay below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit. Special work incentives and programs like Ticket to Work can help you explore employment without immediately losing benefits. Free counseling is available through WIPA[2][7].
