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Colorado • Other
People in Colorado with Sensory Processing Disorder may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and state-specific programs. Eligibility depends on medical evidence, income, and work history. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Colorado, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must meet Social Security’s definition. Both programs require medical proof from doctors or specialists. Children and adults with Sensory Processing Disorder may qualify if their symptoms are severe enough to limit daily activities and work [1].
Federal rules apply to all states, but local agencies help with applications and decisions. You must be a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen and live in one of the 50 states, D.C., or the Northern Mariana Islands [4].
In Colorado, adults with Sensory Processing Disorder may qualify for several state programs. The Aid to the Needy Disabled-State Only (AND-SO) program gives cash help to low-income adults with disabilities who are actively pursuing SSI. To qualify, you must be 18–59, a Colorado resident, and have a disability that stops you from working. You must also have limited resources—$2,000 for singles, $3,000 for couples [3].
Colorado also offers the Health First Colorado Buy-In Program for Working Adults with Disabilities. This lets adults with a qualifying disability buy Medicaid coverage, even if they earn too much for regular Medicaid. You must be 16 or older, employed, and have a disability recognized by Social Security or the state. Income limits are up to 450% of the Federal Poverty Level [2].
If you are not working, you may qualify for regular Medicaid or SSI, which can also provide Medicaid coverage. Always check with your county human services office for the latest rules and help with applications [2][3].
Colorado ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. To qualify, you must be eligible for SSI or SSDI and have a disability that started before age 26. You can open an account for yourself or have someone do it for you. There are no income limits, but annual contributions are capped. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like education, housing, and transportation [5].
For SSI in Colorado, individuals can have up to $2,000 in countable resources, couples up to $3,000. Countable resources include cash, bank accounts, and stocks. Your home and one car do not count. For SSDI, there are no asset limits, but you must have a work history and enough Social Security credits. For the Health First Colorado Buy-In Program, income must be below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level after disregards [2][4].
If your income, work status, or health changes, you must report it to Social Security and your state agency. Failing to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. Always keep records of what you report and when. If you get an overpayment notice, contact the agency right away to set up a repayment plan or appeal [4].
Contact your county human services office or a certified benefits counselor for free help with applications and questions about eligibility.
Yes, if your Sensory Processing Disorder severely limits your ability to work or do daily activities, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. You need medical proof from a doctor showing how your condition affects you.
SSDI is for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with disabilities and low income. Both provide monthly payments, but SSDI also gives Medicare after 24 months.
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You’ll need medical records, proof of income, and other documents. Your county human services office can help.
Colorado offers the AND-SO program for cash help, Health First Colorado Buy-In for health coverage, and ABLE accounts for saving. Medicaid waivers may also be available for home and community-based services.
Yes, Colorado has work incentives and programs like the Health First Colorado Buy-In that let you work and keep benefits. Always report changes in income to avoid overpayments.
For SSI, individuals can have up to $2,000 in countable resources, couples up to $3,000. Your home and one car do not count. SSDI has no asset limits.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.
This program lets adults with disabilities buy Medicaid coverage if they work and earn too much for regular Medicaid. You must have a qualifying disability and income below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level.
Yes, you can open a Colorado ABLE account if you became disabled before age 26. This lets you save without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
If denied, you can appeal within 60 days. You can ask for a reconsideration, a hearing, or further review. Get help from a benefits counselor or advocate.
Yes, you must report changes to Social Security and your state agency. Failing to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. Keep records of what you report.
