If you have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Colorado, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what programs are available to help you get financial and health support.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, you must meet the Social Security Administration's (SSA) definition of disability. This means your condition must prevent you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. You must also have a medically determinable impairment that severely limits your ability to work. For SSDI, you need enough work credits. For SSI, your income and resources must be below certain limits. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is evaluated under SSA's listing for chronic fatigue syndrome (listing 14.10) or other relevant listings if symptoms overlap with other conditions[1][8].
In Colorado, adults with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may qualify for state programs if they meet specific criteria. For example, the Aid to the Needy Disabled-State Only (AND-SO) program requires you to be a Colorado resident, aged 18-59, have a qualifying disability expected to last 6 months or longer, and be actively pursuing SSI benefits. The Health First Colorado Buy-In Program for Working Adults with Disabilities allows adults with a qualifying disability to buy into Medicaid if they work and earn too much for regular Medicaid, but their income is below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level. You do not need to be approved for SSA disability to qualify for the Buy-In, but your disability must be verified by the state using SSA criteria[2][3][4].
Collect Medical Evidence: Get detailed medical records from your doctors that show your diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, symptoms, and how they affect your daily life and ability to work. This should include treatment history and any functional limitations.
Determine Eligibility: Review the eligibility requirements for federal programs (SSI/SSDI) and state programs (AND-SO, Medicaid Buy-In). Make sure you meet the criteria for the programs you want to apply for.
Start Your Application: You can apply for SSI/SSDI online at the SSA website, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office. For state programs like AND-SO or Medicaid Buy-In, apply through your county human services office or online at Colorado.gov/PEAK.
Submit Documentation: Send all required documents, including medical records, proof of income, and identification. For AND-SO, you must also complete the Authorization for Reimbursement of Interim Assistance form.
Follow Up: Respond promptly to any requests for more information or additional documentation. Keep copies of everything you submit.
Seek Help: If you need help, contact the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) or a certified benefits counselor. They can help you understand how work affects your benefits and guide you through the process[1][3][5][7].
Federal programs available for people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Colorado include:
Colorado offers several state-specific programs for people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome:
Aid to the Needy Disabled-State Only (AND-SO): Provides interim cash assistance to low-income adults with a disability who are actively pursuing SSI benefits. The grant is $248 per month (as of April 2022). Eligibility requires being a Colorado resident, aged 18-59, having a qualifying disability, and exhausting other public financial assistance[3].
Health First Colorado Buy-In Program for Working Adults with Disabilities: Allows adults with a qualifying disability to buy into Medicaid if they work and earn too much for regular Medicaid, but their income is below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level. You pay a monthly premium based on your income[2][4].
Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Colorado offers Home and Community-Based Services waivers for people with disabilities who need long-term care support. These waivers can help with services like personal care, home modifications, and respite care[2].
Colorado residents with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may qualify for an ABLE account if their disability started before age 26. ABLE accounts allow you to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses such as education, housing, transportation, and health care[6].
For SSI, your income and resources must be below certain limits. In Colorado, the AND-SO program has a resource limit of $2,000 for an unmarried person and $3,000 for a married couple. For the Medicaid Buy-In, your income must be below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level after disregards. Always check the latest guidelines as these limits can change[3][2].
If you receive disability benefits, you must report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits. Always keep records of your reports and follow up with the agency if you have questions[7].
Contact the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) or a certified benefits counselor for help with your disability application. They can guide you through the process and answer your questions.
Yes, you can work while applying for or receiving disability benefits in Colorado. The Social Security Administration allows for a trial work period and other work incentives. Working may affect your benefit amount, so it's important to report your earnings and seek benefits counseling[5][7].
You need detailed medical records showing your diagnosis, symptoms, treatment history, and how your condition limits your ability to work. This should include doctor's notes, test results, and any functional assessments[1][8].
The time to get a decision varies. It can take several months to over a year, depending on the program and how quickly you provide requested information. You can check the status of your application online or by calling the agency[1][7].
Yes, you can get help from the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), Centers for Independent Living, or a certified benefits counselor. They can help you fill out forms, understand eligibility, and plan for work[5][7].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both provide monthly cash benefits, but eligibility and benefit amounts differ[1][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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Yes, if you qualify for SSI or meet other eligibility criteria, you can get Medicaid. Colorado also has a Medicaid Buy-In program for working adults with disabilities who earn too much for regular Medicaid[2][4].
An ABLE account is a savings account for people with disabilities that does not affect eligibility for means-tested benefits. You can get one in Colorado if your disability started before age 26[6].
For SSI, the resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. For the AND-SO program in Colorado, the limits are the same. Always check the latest guidelines as these can change[3].
Not always. For some state programs like the Medicaid Buy-In, you can qualify with a state disability determination even if you are not approved for SSA disability. The state uses SSA criteria to make the determination[2][4].
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. You have the right to request a reconsideration, a hearing, and further appeals. Seek help from a benefits counselor or legal aid if you need support[1][7].
