People with Down Syndrome in Arizona may qualify for federal and state benefits, including Medicaid (AHCCCS), SSI, SSDI, and special work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources and meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. Children with Down Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their family meets income and resource limits. Adults with Down Syndrome who became disabled before age 22 may be eligible for benefits based on a parent’s Social Security record, even if they have never worked themselves [3].
In Arizona, people with Down Syndrome may qualify for AHCCCS (Medicaid) if they are residents, U.S. citizens or qualified immigrants, have a Social Security number, and meet the income limits. The gross monthly income limit for a single applicant is $1,305 as of February 2025. If you receive Social Security disability benefits or are determined disabled by the Disability Determination Services Administration (DDSA), you may qualify for AHCCCS. There are no monthly premiums for AHCCCS if you qualify. Emergency services may be available even if you do not meet all requirements [1].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. In Arizona, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free. Visit the ABLE National Resource Center for more information.
| Program | Gross Monthly Income Limit (Single Applicant, 2025) | |---|---| | SSI | $943 | | SSDI | No strict limit, but must not be doing substantial work | | AHCCCS | $1,305 |
Note: These limits may change. Check official sources for the most current information.
If your income, address, or disability status changes, you must report it to Social Security and AHCCCS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits. Report changes as soon as possible. See the guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes for more details.
Contact a Work Incentive Consultant at 1-866-304-WORK (9675) for free help with benefits and work planning.
Yes, a child with Down Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their family meets income and resource limits. The child must have a qualifying disability and be under age 18. Apply through the Social Security Administration.
As of February 2025, the gross monthly income limit for a single applicant is $1,305. If you receive Social Security disability benefits or are determined disabled by DDSA, you may qualify for AHCCCS.
You must be a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant to get AHCCCS. If you are not, you may still be eligible for emergency services.
Yes, there are work incentives for SSI and SSDI recipients. You may be able to work and keep your benefits. Contact a Work Incentive Consultant for help with planning.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. It allows you to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid.
You can apply for AHCCCS online at azahcccs.gov or by mail. You can also call 1-855-432-7587 for help with the application process.
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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SSI is for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes and are disabled. Both programs provide monthly cash payments.
Yes, adults with Down Syndrome who became disabled before age 22 may be eligible for benefits based on a parent’s Social Security record, even if they have never worked themselves.
Yes, Arizona offers Medicaid (AHCCCS), Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, and work incentives for people with disabilities, including those with Down Syndrome.
Report changes in income, address, or disability status to Social Security and AHCCCS as soon as possible to avoid overpayments. You can report changes online or by phone.
