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Colorado • Rare/Genetic
People with Cystic Fibrosis 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 where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. Cystic Fibrosis is considered a qualifying disability if it meets these criteria. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses medical listings to decide if your condition is severe enough. You must also be a U.S. citizen or meet non-citizen requirements and live in one of the 50 states, D.C., or the Northern Mariana Islands[1].
In Colorado, adults with Cystic Fibrosis may qualify for several programs. To get SSI, you must be a resident, have limited assets (under $2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples), and meet the SSA's disability definition[4]. For SSDI, you need a qualifying work history. Colorado also offers the Aid to the Needy Disabled-State Only (AND-SO) program for low-income adults aged 18-59 with a disability that prevents work. AND-SO provides interim cash help while you apply for SSI. The Health First Colorado Buy-In Program lets working adults with disabilities buy Medicaid coverage if their income is below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level[2]. You must have a qualifying disability, which can be determined by SSA or the state's vendor[5].
Colorado ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. To qualify, you must have a disability that started before age 26, a physician's diagnosis, and meet SSA criteria. You can self-certify if you don't get SSI or SSDI. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses[6].
For SSI in Colorado, individuals can have up to $2,000 in countable resources, couples up to $3,000. Your primary home and one vehicle don't count. For SSDI, there are no asset limits, but you must have a qualifying work history. For Health First Colorado Buy-In, income must be below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level[2][4].
Always report changes in income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to Social Security, Medicaid, or your county human services office. Keep records of all reports and payments[4].
Contact your county human services office or call Ability Connection Colorado at 1-303-691-9339 for free help with applications and questions.
Yes, if Cystic Fibrosis prevents you from working and meets SSA criteria. You may qualify for SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, or state programs like AND-SO. Apply through SSA or your county human services office[1][3][4].
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office. Gather medical records and proof of income before applying[1].
It lets working adults with disabilities buy Medicaid coverage if their income is below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level. You must have a qualifying disability, which can be determined by SSA or the state's vendor[2].
AND-SO provides interim cash help ($248/month) for low-income adults aged 18-59 with a disability that prevents work. You must be actively pursuing SSI benefits[3].
Yes, Colorado ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. You must have a qualifying disability and a physician's diagnosis[6].
For SSI, individuals can have up to $2,000 in countable resources, couples up to $3,000. For Health First Colorado Buy-In, income must be below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level[2][4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes, always report changes in income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. Report changes to Social Security, Medicaid, or your county human services office[4].
Yes, Colorado has work incentives and programs like the Buy-In Program that let you work and keep benefits. Contact a certified benefits counselor for help[7].
Processing times vary. SSI/SSDI can take several months. Medicaid and state programs may be faster. Apply as soon as possible and follow up regularly[1][2].
Contact your county human services office, Social Security office, or a certified benefits counselor. You can also call Ability Connection Colorado for help[7].
