Adults in Colorado with an intellectual disability may qualify for federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and state-only cash assistance. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what programs are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a medically determinable intellectual disability that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. For SSI, your income and resources must be below strict limits. Both programs use Social Security Administration (SSA) disability listings to determine eligibility. You must provide medical evidence, such as doctor’s reports and test results, to prove your disability meets SSA criteria.
Intellectual disability is listed in the SSA Blue Book under Section 12.05. You must show significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, with onset before age 22.
In Colorado, adults with intellectual disability may qualify for several state programs. The Aid to the Needy Disabled-State Only (AND-SO) program provides interim cash assistance to low-income adults aged 18–59 with a qualifying disability while they apply for SSI. You must be a Colorado resident, have a disability that prevents work, and be actively pursuing SSI benefits. The AND-SO grant is $248 per month.
Colorado also offers the Health First Colorado Buy-In Program for Working Adults with Disabilities. This allows adults with a disability who work and earn above Medicaid limits to buy into Medicaid. You must be 16 or older, employed, and have a qualifying disability (determined by SSA or the state). Income must be below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level after disregards.
Colorado ABLE accounts allow individuals with intellectual disability to save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. To qualify, you must have a qualifying disability with onset before age 26. You can self-certify if not entitled to SSI/SSDI, but must have a written diagnosis from a physician. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses.
For SSI, the 2025 federal income limit is $943/month for an individual. For Medicaid (Health First Colorado), income must be below 138% FPL for most adults, but the Buy-In Program allows up to 450% FPL for working adults with disabilities. AND-SO has a resource limit of $2,000 for singles and $3,000 for couples.
You must report changes in income, resources, work status, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Failure to report can result in repayment of benefits. Report changes to Social Security, Medicaid, and other programs promptly. Contact a certified benefits counselor for help with reporting and work incentives.
Contact a certified benefits counselor or your local Division of Vocational Rehabilitation office for free help with applications and work incentives.
SSI is for low-income individuals with intellectual disability, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those with a qualifying work history and enough Social Security credits. Both require proof of disability through medical records.
You need medical records, a written diagnosis from a doctor, and evidence of significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. Onset must be before age 22 for SSA purposes.
Yes, Colorado has work incentives and programs like the Medicaid Buy-In that allow you to work and keep benefits. Report all income changes to avoid overpayments.
AND-SO is interim cash assistance for low-income adults with intellectual disability while they apply for SSI. The grant is $248/month, and you must be actively pursuing SSI.
Apply online or at your county human services office. If you get SSI/SSDI, you are automatically eligible. If you work and earn too much, apply for the Buy-In Program.
An ABLE account lets you save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. You must have a qualifying disability with onset before age 26.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Join thousands of families who trust Purple to protect their benefits
Purple is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by OMB Bank, Member FDIC.
No, you can get Medicaid through SSI or the Buy-In Program. SSDI recipients get Medicare after 24 months, not Medicaid.
SSI/SSDI decisions can take 3–6 months. Appeals may take longer. Medicaid is usually faster if you qualify.
Yes, Section 8 and other housing programs help low-income individuals with disabilities pay for housing. Contact your local housing authority.
Request a reconsideration within 60 days. You can appeal further if needed. Contact a benefits counselor for help.
