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Colorado • Mental Health
If you have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Colorado, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what programs are available to help you get support.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), your condition must meet the Social Security Administration's (SSA) definition of disability. This means your PTSD must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial gainful activity and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. You must also meet work and credit requirements for SSDI, or income and resource limits for SSI. The SSA uses specific medical criteria to evaluate mental health conditions, including PTSD, and will review your medical records and work history to make a decision. [^1]
In Colorado, adults with PTSD may qualify for Health First Colorado (Medicaid) if they meet income and disability criteria. You can apply for Medicaid even if you work, as long as your income is below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level after certain disregards. Colorado also offers a Buy-In Program for working adults with disabilities, allowing you to buy into Medicaid if you earn too much for regular Medicaid but still have a qualifying disability. Disability determinations for Medicaid are made by the state's contractor, Action Review Group, using SSA criteria. You do not need to apply for SSI or SSDI to qualify for Medicaid, but having an existing determination can speed up the process. [^2][^3]
Colorado ABLE accounts are available for individuals with a qualifying disability that began before age 26. You can qualify if you receive SSI or SSDI based on blindness or disability, or if you self-certify a similarly severe disability with a physician's diagnosis. ABLE accounts allow you to save money without affecting your eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. [^6]
For SSI, your income and resources must be below specific limits set by the SSA. For Health First Colorado, your income after disregards must be below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level. The exact limits change each year, so check the latest figures on the Health First Colorado website or contact your county human services department. [^2][^3]
If your income or circumstances change, you must report these changes to avoid overpayments. This includes changes in work status, income, or living situation. Reporting changes promptly helps ensure you receive the correct amount of benefits and avoids future repayment issues. [^7]
Contact Colorado's Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) for personalized help with your disability application. They can assist with forms, eligibility questions, and connecting you to resources.
Yes, you can work while applying for or receiving disability benefits in Colorado. The Social Security Administration allows for work incentives and trial work periods. Working may affect your benefit amount, but it does not disqualify you from applying. Contact a certified benefits counselor for personalized advice. [^5][^7]
To prove your PTSD qualifies, you need medical documentation from healthcare providers, including diagnoses, treatment records, and statements about how your condition affects your ability to work. The Social Security Administration uses specific criteria to evaluate mental health conditions, including PTSD. [^1][^8]
No, you do not need to apply for SSI or SSDI to get Medicaid in Colorado. You can apply for Medicaid directly and the state will determine your disability status using Social Security criteria. However, having an SSI or SSDI determination can speed up the process. [^2][^3]
The Health First Colorado Buy-In Program allows working adults with disabilities to buy into Medicaid if they earn too much for regular Medicaid. You pay a monthly premium based on your income, and the program provides health coverage. [^2]
It typically takes at least 7 months to get an initial decision on your disability application in Colorado. The process can be longer if more information is needed or if your case goes to appeal. [^1]
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.
Yes, Colorado's Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and certified benefits counselors can help you with the application process. They can assist with completing forms, understanding eligibility, and connecting you with resources. [^5][^7]
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for individuals with disabilities that began before age 26. In Colorado, you qualify if you receive SSI or SSDI based on blindness or disability, or if you self-certify a similarly severe disability with a physician's diagnosis. [^6]
Your income affects your eligibility for SSI and Medicaid. For SSI, your income and resources must be below SSA limits. For Medicaid, your income after disregards must be below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level. Changes in income must be reported to avoid overpayments. [^2][^3][^7]
If you are denied, you can appeal the decision. The appeals process includes several levels, starting with a request for reconsideration. You may want to seek help from a disability advocate or attorney. [^1]
Yes, veterans with PTSD connected to military service may be eligible for disability benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs. These benefits are separate from Social Security and Medicaid but can provide additional support. [^1]
