Spina Bifida Benefits in Connecticut: 2025 Guide

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medically documented condition that stops you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. You also need enough work credits, usually earned by working five of the last ten years. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must meet strict income and asset limits and have a qualifying disability, such as Spina Bifida, that meets Social Security’s definition[1][5][6].

If you are not blind, your monthly earnings must be below $1,620 in 2025 to qualify for SSDI. For SSI, there are no earnings limits for blind individuals, but strict asset and income rules apply[1][6].

In Connecticut, you may qualify for the State Supplement for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled if you are 18–64 with a disability that meets Social Security’s criteria, have another income source (like SSI or SSDI), and your net income and assets are below state limits. The asset limit is $1,600 for an individual or $2,400 for a couple. Homeowners may have a lien placed on their home[2][3].

The State Supplement is only available if you already receive Social Security, SSI, or Veterans benefits. Recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid and may also get SNAP (food stamps) and energy assistance[2][4].

Connecticut also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, such as the Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver, which can help adults with Spina Bifida stay out of institutions[4].

• Gather medical records and proof of income.
• Apply for federal SSI/SSDI online at ssa.gov or at your local Social Security office.
• If approved for SSI/SSDI, apply for Connecticut’s State Supplement at DSS regional offices, online at connect.ct.gov, or by calling 1-855-626-6632.
• For Medicaid waivers, contact the Department of Social Services regional office or visit ct.gov/dss[2][4].

• Step 1: Get your medical records. You need documentation showing your Spina Bifida diagnosis and how it limits your ability to work.
• Step 2: Apply for federal SSI or SSDI. You can do this online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. The SSA will review your medical and work history[5][6].
• Step 3: If approved for SSI or SSDI, apply for Connecticut’s State Supplement. You can apply at a DSS regional office, online at connect.ct.gov, or by calling 1-855-626-6632. You must show proof of your federal benefits and income[2][4].
• Step 4: If you need home or community-based services, ask about Medicaid waivers like the ABI Waiver. Contact your local DSS office for details and application forms[4].
• Step 5: Keep all records and report any changes in income or health to avoid overpayments[6].

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For people with a qualifying work history and a disability that prevents work for 12+ months.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For people with low income and assets who have a qualifying disability, are 65+, or are blind.
• Medicaid: For people with low income who receive SSI or meet other criteria. Medicaid covers medical care and some home-based services[5][6].

• State Supplement for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled: Cash assistance for people who are 65+ or have a qualifying disability and receive SSI, SSDI, or Veterans benefits. Asset limits apply, and recipients get Medicaid[2][3][4].
• Personal Services Program: Grants for personal assistants to help people with severe disabilities live at home instead of in institutions[4].
• Family Support Grant Program: Subsidies for families raising children with developmental disabilities[4].
• Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver: Medicaid waiver for adults 18–64 with an acquired brain injury (not developmental or degenerative) who need home and community-based services[4].
• Legal Services for Indigent People: Grants for civil legal help with housing and family issues[4].

ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Connecticut residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like housing, education, and transportation[ABLE Accounts].

• SSDI: Must earn less than $1,620/month in 2025 (unless blind, then $2,700/month)[1].
• SSI: Must meet strict income and asset limits. In Connecticut, the asset limit for the State Supplement is $1,600 for an individual or $2,400 for a couple[2][3].
• State Supplement: Net income must be below the state’s standard of living[2].

If your income or health changes, you must report it to Social Security and DSS. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Always keep records of your benefits and report changes promptly[6].

• Connecticut Department of Social Services
  Phone: 1-855-626-6632

  Website

  Apply for State Supplement, Medicaid, and other benefits.
• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Website

  Apply for SSI and SSDI.

• What federal benefits can I get for Spina Bifida in Connecticut?

  You may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) if you have a work history, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if you have low income and assets. Both programs require a medically documented disability that prevents work for at least 12 months[5][6].

• What is the State Supplement for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled?

  It’s a Connecticut cash assistance program for people 65+ or with a qualifying disability who already receive SSI, SSDI, or Veterans benefits. Asset limits apply, and recipients get Medicaid[2][3].

• How do I apply for Medicaid in Connecticut?

  Most people who get SSI or the State Supplement automatically qualify for Medicaid. You can apply at DSS regional offices, online at connect.ct.gov, or by calling 1-855-626-6632[2][4].

• What are Medicaid waivers in Connecticut?

  Medicaid waivers, like the ABI Waiver, provide home and community-based services for adults with disabilities. These services help people live at home instead of in institutions[4].

• Can I work while getting disability benefits in Connecticut?

  Yes, but your earnings must be below the substantial gainful activity limit ($1,620/month in 2025 for most people). SSI and SSDI have work incentives to help you keep benefits while working[1][6].

• What is an ABLE account and how does it help?

  An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like housing, education, and transportation[ABLE Accounts].