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Colorado • Neurological/Developmental
People with Down Syndrome in Colorado may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what programs are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a medically determinable impairment that prevents substantial gainful activity and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Down Syndrome is automatically considered a qualifying disability for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) if diagnosed before age 22 for SSI or if you have enough work credits for SSDI. You generally need 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years, to qualify for SSDI[8]. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history[8].
In Colorado, adults with Down Syndrome may qualify for several programs. For Health First Colorado (Medicaid), you must have a qualifying disability, be 16 or older, and meet income limits (up to 450% of the Federal Poverty Level for the Buy-In Program)[2]. The Aid to the Needy Disabled-State Only (AND-SO) program provides interim cash assistance for low-income residents with disabilities, including Down Syndrome, who are actively pursuing SSI[4]. Colorado also offers ABLE accounts for those with disabilities that began before age 26[6].
Colorado ABLE accounts allow people with Down Syndrome to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. To qualify, you must have a qualifying disability that began before age 26. You can self-certify if you are not entitled to SSI or SSDI, but you must have a written diagnosis from a physician[6].
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943/month for an individual in 2025. For Health First Colorado Buy-In, income can be up to 450% of the Federal Poverty Level. For AND-SO, the maximum resources are $2,000 for an unmarried person and $3,000 for a married person[4].
You must report all changes in income, resources, and living situation to SSA and state agencies to avoid overpayments. Failure to report can result in penalties or loss of benefits. Use the Colorado.gov/PEAK portal to report changes[4].
If you have Down Syndrome, apply for SSI first. SSI is easier to qualify for and can lead to Medicaid eligibility.
Colorado has programs that let you work and keep your benefits. Ask about the Buy-In Program and SSI work incentives.
Yes, Down Syndrome is automatically considered a qualifying disability for SSI if diagnosed before age 22. You do not need to prove functional limitations for SSI eligibility[8].
Yes, Colorado has programs like the Health First Colorado Buy-In Program for Working Adults with Disabilities. You can work and still receive Medicaid if you meet income and disability criteria[2].
Apply for Health First Colorado online or through your county office. If you already receive SSI or SSDI, you do not need a separate disability application[5].
AND-SO is a state program that provides interim cash assistance to low-income adults with disabilities who are actively pursuing SSI benefits. The grant is $248/month[4].
Yes, you can open a Colorado ABLE account. These accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility[6].
SSDI is for people with enough work credits. If you have worked and paid Social Security taxes, you may qualify for SSDI in addition to SSI[8].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
If you are a public employee with at least five years of service, you may qualify for Colorado PERA’s disability program. Apply within 90 days of termination[3].
Report all changes in income, resources, and living situation to SSA and state agencies through the Colorado.gov/PEAK portal to avoid overpayments[4].
Yes, children with Down Syndrome may qualify for SSI, Medicaid, and other programs. Apply through SSA and your county office[8].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those with enough work credits. Both provide cash benefits and health coverage[8].
