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Colorado • Learning
People in Colorado with dyslexia may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. Eligibility depends on severity, work history, and income. This guide covers how to apply, what programs are available, and how to manage your benefits.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with dyslexia, your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from working and must be expected to last at least one year or result in death. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a qualifying work history and have paid Social Security taxes. Both programs use the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability, which includes learning disabilities like dyslexia if they are severe and documented by a medical professional [1].
In Colorado, adults with dyslexia may qualify for several state programs if they meet federal disability criteria. The Health First Colorado Buy-In Program allows working adults with disabilities to buy into Medicaid, even if their income is too high for regular Medicaid. You must be employed, have a qualifying disability (including dyslexia if it meets SSA criteria), and have income below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level. The Aid to the Needy Disabled-State Only (AND-SO) program provides interim cash assistance to low-income adults with disabilities who are pursuing SSI benefits. AND-SO requires a qualifying disability, Colorado residency, and active pursuit of SSI [3].
Colorado ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits. To qualify, you must have a qualifying disability that started 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. ABLE accounts can be used for qualified disability expenses, including education, housing, and transportation [6].
You must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment or benefit reductions. Keep records of all changes and report them promptly to the agency that provides your benefits [9].
Contact your local county human services office or call Ability Connection Colorado for expert help with your application.
Yes, dyslexia can qualify as a disability if it is severe enough to prevent you from working and is expected to last at least one year. You must provide medical documentation and meet the criteria set by the Social Security Administration [1][8].
SSI is for people with low income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs require a severe disability that prevents substantial gainful activity [1][8].
You can apply for Medicaid through the Health First Colorado Buy-In Program if you are employed and have a qualifying disability. Apply online at Colorado.gov/PEAK or through your county human services office [2][5].
The Aid to the Needy Disabled-State Only (AND-SO) program provides interim cash assistance to low-income adults with disabilities who are pursuing SSI benefits. The maximum benefit is $248 per month [3].
Yes, some programs like the Health First Colorado Buy-In allow you to work and still receive benefits. Your income must be below certain limits, and you may have to pay a premium [2].
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits. You must have a qualifying disability that started before age 26. ABLE accounts can be used for qualified disability expenses [6].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
No, you do not need to be receiving SSI or SSDI to qualify for some state benefits. Colorado uses SSA disability listings to determine eligibility for state programs [2][5].
You must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to the agency that provides your benefits. Keep records of all changes and report them promptly to avoid overpayments [9].
You need a diagnosis from a qualified professional and records of how your disability affects your ability to work or perform daily activities. The documentation must show that the disability is severe and expected to last at least one year [1][8].
Yes, children with dyslexia may qualify for SSI if they meet the criteria for a severe disability. The application process is similar to adults, but the criteria are adjusted for children [4].
