If you live in Colorado and have chronic pain that limits your ability to work, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what programs are available for people with chronic pain in Colorado.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Colorado, your chronic pain must be severe enough to prevent you from working and expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes, earning enough work credits (generally 40, with 20 in the last 10 years). For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources (up to $2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples). Both programs require a qualifying medical condition, which can include chronic pain if it meets Social Security's criteria for severity and duration [1].
In Colorado, adults with chronic pain may qualify for additional programs if they meet specific criteria. The Aid to the Needy Disabled-State Only (AND-SO) program provides interim cash assistance to low-income adults (ages 18–59) with a disability that prevents work, while they apply for SSI. AND-SO requires a qualifying disability, Colorado residency, and that all other public financial assistance is exhausted. The Health First Colorado Buy-In Program for Working Adults with Disabilities allows adults with a disability (including chronic pain) who are employed to buy into Medicaid, even if their income is too high for regular Medicaid. Eligibility is based on having a qualifying disability and income below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level [2][3].
Colorado ABLE accounts are available for people with chronic pain who became disabled before age 26. You can open an account if you are entitled to SSI or SSDI based on disability, or if you self-certify a similarly severe disability with a physician's diagnosis. ABLE accounts allow you to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits [6].
For SSI in Colorado, individuals can have up to $2,000 in countable resources, couples up to $3,000. For the Health First Colorado Buy-In Program, income must be below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level. For AND-SO, income and resources are considered, with a maximum of $2,000 for singles and $3,000 for couples [3][4].
If your income, resources, or medical condition changes, you must report it to Social Security or your state agency. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay. Always keep records of your reports and follow agency instructions for reporting changes [9].
Contact your county human services office or call a certified benefits counselor for help with your application. They can answer questions and help you avoid common mistakes.
Yes, chronic pain can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it is severe enough to prevent you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. You must provide medical documentation showing your diagnosis and how it limits your daily activities [1][4].
You need medical records from your doctor that describe your chronic pain, how it limits your daily activities, and how long it is expected to last. This should include diagnoses, treatment plans, and any functional limitations [1][5].
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a 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 [1][2][3].
SSDI is for people with chronic pain who have a qualifying work history and have paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with chronic pain who have limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both require a qualifying medical condition [1][4].
Yes, Colorado has programs like the Medicaid Buy-In for Working Adults with Disabilities that allow you to work and still get benefits. SSDI and SSI also have work incentives that let you try working without losing benefits immediately [2][7].
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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AND-SO provides interim cash assistance to low-income adults (18–59) with chronic pain while they apply for SSI. It requires a qualifying disability and exhaustion of other public benefits. The benefit is $248/month in 2025 [3].
The Buy-In Program allows adults with chronic pain who are employed to buy into Medicaid, even if their income is too high for regular Medicaid. Premiums are based on income, and eligibility is determined using Social Security disability criteria [2].
Yes, you can get help from local agencies, certified benefits counselors, and your county human services office. They can help you understand eligibility, fill out applications, and appeal denials [7].
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. You must file an appeal within 60 days of the denial notice. You may need to provide additional medical evidence or attend a hearing [1].
Yes, you must report changes in your income, resources, or medical condition to Social Security or your state agency. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay [9].
