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Colorado • Neurological/Developmental
People with Cerebral Palsy in Colorado may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and cash assistance. 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, have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months, and meet the work credit requirement (usually 20 credits in the last 10 years)[^1]. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. You must have a qualifying disability, be a U.S. resident, and meet financial limits[^2]. Cerebral Palsy is recognized as a qualifying condition if it meets Social Security’s medical criteria[^1][^2].
In Colorado, adults with Cerebral Palsy may qualify for the Aid to the Needy Disabled-State Only (AND-SO) program if they are aged 18–59, have a qualifying disability, and are actively pursuing SSI benefits[^3]. The Health First Colorado Buy-In Program allows working adults with disabilities to enroll in Medicaid if their income is below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level, even if they earn too much for regular Medicaid[^2]. You must be 16 or older, employed, and have a qualifying disability determination[^2]. Colorado also offers ABLE accounts for those with disabilities that began before age 26[^6].
Colorado ABLE accounts allow individuals with Cerebral Palsy to save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. To qualify, you must have a qualifying disability (SSI/SSDI or self-certification) and a physician’s diagnosis. The disability must have started before age 26[^6].
For SSI in Colorado, individuals can have up to $2,000 in countable resources, couples up to $3,000. The monthly earnings limit for SSDI is $1,620 (2025). For the Health First Colorado Buy-In, income must be below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level[^4][2].
You must report changes in income, employment, or health status to all benefit programs. Failure to report can result in overpayments and penalties. Use the SSI Income Estimator tool to plan for changes[^4].
Contact your county human services office or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 for help with applications.
Yes, Colorado’s Health First Colorado Buy-In Program allows working adults with disabilities to keep Medicaid if their income is below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level. SSDI and SSI also have work incentives and trial work periods[^2][7].
You need detailed medical records, including doctor’s reports, test results, and a diagnosis that shows your Cerebral Palsy meets Social Security’s criteria for disability[^1][6].
The process can take several months. SSDI/SSI decisions usually take 3–6 months, but can be longer if more information is needed. State programs may be faster[^1][3].
Yes, Section 8, public housing, and other programs can help pay for housing. Contact your county human services office for more information[^7].
SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both require a qualifying disability[^1][2].
Yes, Colorado’s Medicaid Buy-In Program allows working adults with disabilities to buy into Medicaid if their income is below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level[^2].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always verify eligibility and requirements with official sources.
AND-SO provides interim cash assistance ($248/month) for low-income adults with disabilities while they pursue SSI benefits. You must be actively pursuing SSI to qualify[^3].
Visit ColoradoABLE.org, provide proof of disability (SSI/SSDI or self-certification), and a physician’s diagnosis. The disability must have started before age 26[^6].
Yes, you must report changes to all benefit programs to avoid overpayments and penalties. Use the SSI Income Estimator tool to plan for changes[^4].
Yes, children with Cerebral Palsy may qualify for SSI if they meet the medical and financial criteria. Contact Social Security for more information[^2].
