Williams Syndrome Benefits in Delaware

People with Williams Syndrome may qualify for federal disability benefits if their condition meets the Social Security Administration's definition of disability. This means the condition must be severe, expected to last at least 12 months, and prevent substantial gainful activity. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those with a work history. Medicaid provides health coverage for eligible individuals with disabilities, regardless of age, if they meet income and resource limits. Children with Williams Syndrome may also qualify for SSI if they meet the childhood disability criteria and their family's income is within limits. All applicants must provide medical evidence of their condition and its impact on daily life [1].

In Delaware, people with Williams Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid, SSI, SSDI, and other state programs. Medicaid eligibility in Delaware is based on income and disability status. Children with Williams Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid through the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) or Medicaid if their family's income is within limits. Adults with Williams Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid if they meet the state's income and disability criteria. Delaware also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can provide additional support for people with disabilities. ABLE accounts are available in Delaware for people with disabilities, allowing them to save money without losing benefits. State-specific eligibility may vary, so it's important to check with the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services for the most current information [2].

• Gather medical records and proof of income.
• Contact the Social Security Administration to apply for SSI or SSDI.
• Apply for Medicaid through the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services.
• Consider applying for an ABLE account for financial planning.
• Report any changes in income or resources to avoid overpayments.

• Collect all necessary documents, including medical records, proof of income, and identification.
• Contact the Social Security Administration to apply for SSI or SSDI. You can apply online, by phone, or in person at a local office. Provide detailed medical evidence of Williams Syndrome and its impact on daily life.
• Apply for Medicaid through the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services. You can apply online, by phone, or in person. Provide proof of income, resources, and disability status.
• If eligible, apply for a Medicaid waiver for home and community-based services. This may require additional documentation and a waiting list.
• Consider opening an ABLE account for financial planning. You can apply through the Delaware ABLE program.
• Report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the appropriate agencies to avoid overpayments and maintain eligibility.
• Keep copies of all applications and correspondence for your records.
• Seek help from a benefits counselor or advocate if you need assistance with the application process [3].

• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Provides monthly cash payments to people with disabilities who have limited income and resources.
• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): Provides monthly cash payments to people with disabilities who have a work history.
• Medicaid: Provides health coverage for eligible individuals with disabilities, regardless of age.
• Medicare: Provides health coverage for people with disabilities who have received SSDI for 24 months.
• Medicaid Waivers: Provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities.
• ABLE Accounts: Allow people with disabilities to save money without losing benefits [4].

• Delaware Medicaid: Provides health coverage for eligible individuals with disabilities, including children and adults with Williams Syndrome.
• Medicaid Waivers: Delaware offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can provide additional support for people with disabilities.
• ABLE Accounts: Delaware offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities, allowing them to save money without losing benefits.
• SSI/SSDI: Delaware residents can apply for SSI and SSDI through the Social Security Administration.
• Other State Programs: Delaware may offer additional programs for people with disabilities, such as vocational rehabilitation and supported employment services [5].

ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing benefits. In Delaware, you can open an ABLE account through the Delaware ABLE program. The account can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, transportation, and personal support services. Contributions to the account are not tax-deductible, but earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free. The maximum annual contribution is $16,000 (2023 limit). You must have a disability that began before age 26 to qualify [6].

• SSI: The federal income limit for SSI is $914 per month for an individual and $1,371 for a couple (2023). Delaware does not have a state supplement for SSI.
• SSDI: There is no income limit for SSDI, but you must have a work history and meet the disability criteria.
• Medicaid: The income limit for Medicaid in Delaware is 138% of the Federal Poverty Level for adults and 266% for children (2023). Children with Williams Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid through CHIP if their family's income is within limits.
• ABLE Accounts: The maximum annual contribution is $16,000 (2023). The account balance cannot exceed $100,000 without affecting SSI eligibility [7].

It's important to report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the appropriate agencies to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can occur if you receive benefits you are not eligible for, such as if your income increases or you start working. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact the agency to discuss repayment options. You may be able to set up a payment plan or request a waiver if the overpayment was not your fault. Keep copies of all correspondence and documentation for your records [8].

• Delaware Department of Health and Social Services
  Phone: 1-866-852-2227

  Website

  For Medicaid and state-specific programs.
• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Website

  For SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid eligibility.

• What is Williams Syndrome?

  Williams Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects development, causing intellectual disability, heart problems, and distinctive facial features. It can qualify for disability benefits if it meets the Social Security Administration's criteria.

• Can children with Williams Syndrome get SSI?

  Yes, children with Williams Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their condition meets the childhood disability criteria and their family's income is within limits. Medical evidence is required.

• What is the difference between SSI and SSDI?

  SSI is for people with disabilities who have limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those with a work history. Both provide monthly cash payments and may qualify for Medicaid.

• How do I apply for Medicaid in Delaware?

  You can apply for Medicaid in Delaware through the Department of Health and Social Services. You'll need to provide proof of income, resources, and disability status. Applications can be submitted online, by phone, or in person.

• What are Medicaid waivers?

  Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities. In Delaware, these waivers can help with personal care, respite care, and other support services.

• Can I work and still get benefits?

  Yes, you can work and still receive SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid. There are work incentives and rules that allow you to keep some benefits while working. Reporting changes is important to avoid overpayments.