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Colorado • Rare/Genetic
If you or a loved one in Colorado has Williams Syndrome, you may qualify for federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Colorado’s unique cash assistance and buy-in programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, key contacts, and what to expect from each program.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Williams Syndrome, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) criteria for a disabling condition. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough work credits; for SSI, you must have limited income and assets and a disability expected to last at least 12 months or result in death[4][8].
SSA uses the same rules nationwide, but state Medicaid and cash programs may have extra steps and local applications[1][4].
Colorado offers extra help for people with Williams Syndrome who do not qualify for federal benefits or need temporary support.
Colorado does not have a Williams Syndrome-specific waiver, but Medicaid HCBS (Home and Community-Based Services) waivers may provide additional home care and support—check with your local county office[internal_links].
Disability determinations for Colorado Medicaid use the same SSA standards, but are done by a state contractor, Arbor E&T LLC (Action Review Group)[5]. You do not need to apply twice if you already receive SSI or SSDI[5].
If you have Williams Syndrome, start by applying for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. Gather medical records, work history, and financial documents. For Colorado Medicaid, apply online at Colorado.gov/PEAK or contact your county human services office. For AND-SO, contact your county or the Colorado Department of Human Services[1][3][5].
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Colorado Disability Benefits with Williams Syndrome
Federal benefits for Williams Syndrome in Colorado include:
Colorado offers these key programs for people with Williams Syndrome:
State-specific eligibility and benefits can change; contact your county or Colorado Department of Human Services for the latest details[3][5].
Colorado ABLE accounts let individuals with Williams Syndrome (if disability onset was before age 26) save and invest money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Earnings are tax-free for qualified expenses, and you can save up to $18,000 per year. Eligibility requires SSI, SSDI, or a doctor-signed disability diagnosis[internal_links].
If your income, living situation, or resources change, you must report it to Social Security and Colorado Medicaid to avoid overpayments or loss of benefits. Learn more about how and when to report changes in our Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide[internal_links].
If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal. Consider contacting a local disability lawyer or advocacy group for free or low-cost help. Certified benefits counselors can explain how work, income, and changes in your situation affect your benefits.
Even if you work and earn too much for regular Medicaid, Colorado’s Buy-In Program lets you pay a monthly premium to keep your health coverage. This is especially important for people with Williams Syndrome who want to work part-time or full-time[2].
If your Williams Syndrome disability began before age 26, you can open a Colorado ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility[internal_links][6].
Yes, children with Williams Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their condition causes severe limitations and their family meets income and asset limits. Medical documentation is essential for approval[4].
SSI is based on financial need and does not require work history. SSDI requires you to have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both have strict medical criteria, but different income and resource rules. See our SSI vs SSDI guide for details[internal_links][8].
Earnings may reduce SSI payments or affect Medicaid eligibility. Colorado’s Medicaid Buy-In allows you to work and earn more, with premiums based on income. Always report work and income changes promptly. Explore SSI & SSDI Work Incentives for more on working while receiving benefits[internal_links][2].
This program lets adults with disabilities who work pay a monthly premium for Health First Colorado (Medicaid), even if their income is too high for regular Medicaid. Premiums depend on your earnings[2].
Contact your county human services department or the Colorado Department of Human Services. You must have a qualifying disability, low income, and be actively pursuing SSI. You’ll need a medical certification of your disability[3].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Benefit rules and amounts change frequently. Always verify current eligibility criteria and application procedures with official agencies.
You can open a Colorado ABLE account if you have a disability that began before age 26, such as Williams Syndrome, and are eligible for SSI, SSDI, or have a signed doctor’s diagnosis. It helps save without affecting most benefits[internal_links][6].
Colorado does not have a Williams Syndrome-specific waiver, but you may qualify for a Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver if you need long-term supports. Contact your county for details[internal_links].
You have the right to appeal any denial. Follow the instructions in your denial letter, gather more medical evidence, and consider contacting a disability advocate or lawyer for help with the appeals process[1].
No. If you are approved for SSI or SSDI, you do not need to complete a separate Medicaid disability application. Make sure your county knows you are receiving these benefits[5].
Contact your county human services office, Colorado Department of Human Services, or a local disability advocacy group. Certified benefits counselors and legal aid organizations can help with applications and appeals[7].
