People in Colorado with amputation may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSDI, SSI, Medicaid, and special programs for working adults. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough Social Security work credits. For SSI, your income and resources must be low. Amputation is listed in the Social Security Administration's Blue Book, so it often meets the medical criteria for disability if it prevents you from doing substantial work [8].
In Colorado, people with amputation may qualify for several state programs. Health First Colorado (Medicaid) is available for those with qualifying disabilities, even if you work and earn above the usual Medicaid limits through the Buy-In Program. The Aid to the Needy Disabled-State Only (AND-SO) program provides interim cash help for those with disabilities who are pursuing SSI. Colorado PERA offers disability benefits for public employees with at least five years of service. You must be a Colorado resident, have a qualifying disability, and meet income and resource limits for each program [2][4][3].
Colorado offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities that started before age 26. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like medical care, education, and housing [9].
You must report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. This includes changes in work, benefits, or medical condition. Report changes to SSA, Medicaid, or your county human services office as soon as possible [4].
Contact your local county human services office or call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 for help with your application.
Amputation is listed in the Social Security Blue Book, so it often qualifies for SSDI or SSI if it prevents you from working. You must meet all other eligibility requirements, including work history for SSDI and income limits for SSI [8].
Yes, Colorado has programs like the Health First Colorado Buy-In that allow people with disabilities to work and still get Medicaid. SSDI and SSI also have work incentives that let you keep some benefits while working [2][8].
Apply for Health First Colorado at Colorado.gov/PEAK. If you work and earn too much for regular Medicaid, apply for the Buy-In Program for Working Adults With Disabilities. You may need to provide medical records showing your disability [2][5].
AND-SO provides interim cash help ($248/month) for people with disabilities who are pursuing SSI. You must be a Colorado resident, 18-59, and have a qualifying disability. The program helps while you wait for SSI approval [4].
Yes, Health First Colorado (Medicaid) covers people with disabilities. If you work and earn too much for regular Medicaid, you may qualify for the Buy-In Program. SSDI also includes Medicare after 24 months [2][8].
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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PERA provides disability benefits for public employees with at least five years of service. Benefits include monthly payments and health coverage for retirees and dependents. Apply within 90 days of termination or while on leave [3].
You can open an ABLE account if you have a disability that started before age 26. You need a physician diagnosis or SSI/SSDI approval. Accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid [9].
You can appeal the decision. For SSDI/SSI, follow the appeals process on SSA.gov. For state programs, contact the agency that denied your application for appeal instructions [1][3].
Yes, you must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Report changes to SSA, Medicaid, or your county human services office as soon as possible [4].
Yes, programs like Section 8 and public housing can help pay for housing. Contact your local housing authority or visit Colorado.gov for more information [7].
