Children and adults with Spina Bifida in Georgia may qualify for federal assistance like SSI/SSDI and Medicaid, as well as state programs including ABLE accounts and Medicaid waivers for home- and community-based services. This guide details eligibility, how to apply, and state-specific resources.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, applicants with Spina Bifida must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. For SSI, this means having a medical condition that results in ‘marked and severe functional limitations’ expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Income and resource limits also apply—in 2025, countable monthly earnings over $1,620 (non-blind) may disqualify a child or adult from SSI. Family income and resources are also considered if the applicant is a child living at home[4]. For SSDI, work history (either the applicant’s or a parent’s) is required. Always check the latest rules, as limits and requirements change yearly[4].
Georgia offers several state-specific programs for people with Spina Bifida. Medicaid waivers, such as the NOW and COMP programs, cover home- and community-based services for those who need a nursing home level of care but wish to live at home. There are over 13,000 people enrolled, but thousands remain on the waitlist. A STABLE account (Georgia’s ABLE account) is available to any Georgia resident who became disabled before age 26, letting you save up to $19,000/year tax-free, plus more if employed, without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility[2]. Recent state budget increases aim to expand waiver slots and raise provider pay, which may reduce wait times[1]. Contact the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) for waiver or service details.
Start by gathering medical records, proof of income, and residency. For SSI or SSDI, apply online at the Social Security website or call your local office. For Georgia Medicaid waivers, contact DBHDD directly. For Georgia STABLE accounts, visit the Georgia STABLE website to open an account online. If you need help, reach out to disability advocacy groups or your doctor’s office for referrals.
For SSI/SSDI:
For Georgia Medicaid Waivers:
For Georgia STABLE Accounts:
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Provides monthly cash payments to low-income children and adults with disabilities, including Spina Bifida. SSI has strict income and resource limits, and benefits may be reduced if living in a medical facility[4]. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Pays benefits to adults who have worked and paid Social Security taxes, or to adult “disabled adult children” of retired, deceased, or disabled workers. Medicaid: Offers health coverage and, in some cases, long-term services and supports. Medicare: Available to those who receive SSDI after a 24-month waiting period.
Georgia Medicaid Waivers: The New Options Waiver (NOW) and Comprehensive Supports Waiver Program (COMP) pay for home- and community-based services (HCBS), such as personal care, therapy, and respite, for eligible individuals with Spina Bifida[1]. There is a waiting list, but recent state budget increases may help reduce wait times[1]. Georgia STABLE Accounts: Allow tax-free savings and investment for disability expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid, up to $19,000/year (more if employed)[2]. State Disability Insurance: Georgia state employees can access short- and long-term disability insurance through the Flexible Benefits Program[3]. Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD): Manages waiver programs and connects families to resources and advocacy groups.
Georgia STABLE Accounts are the state’s ABLE program, letting Georgians with Spina Bifida (onset before age 26) save up to $19,000 per year—plus up to $15,060 more if employed—without losing SSI, Medicaid, or other needs-based benefits[2]. Growth and withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are tax-free. Parents or representatives can open and manage accounts for those unable to do so themselves[2].
For SSI in 2025, a child or adult with Spina Bifida cannot earn more than $1,620/month (non-blind) without risking eligibility[4]. Family income and resources are also counted for children at home. SSDI does not have income limits for applicants, but work history and recent earnings matter. Georgia Medicaid waivers have both financial and functional eligibility rules—contact DBHDD for details[1].
If your income or living situation changes, report it promptly to SSA and Georgia Medicaid to avoid overpayments or loss of benefits. Overpayments must be repaid and can cause future benefit reductions. See our guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes for more.
Georgia’s NOW and COMP waivers have helped thousands, but waitlists remain long. Recent state budget increases are expected to create new slots—apply early and check back often for updates[1].
Save up to $19,000/year tax-free for disability expenses, with higher limits if you’re employed. These accounts do not affect your SSI or Medicaid eligibility, and family members can help manage them[2].
In 2025, you generally cannot earn more than $1,620/month (non-blind) and still qualify for SSI. Family income and resources are also considered for children. These limits change yearly, so check the SSA website for updates[4].
Contact the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) to start the process. You’ll need to complete an assessment, and if eligible, you may be placed on a waitlist for services[1].
A Georgia STABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities that began before age 26. You can save up to $19,000/year (more if employed) without losing federal benefits. A family member or legal representative can open the account if needed[2].
Children may qualify for SSI, Medicaid, and waiver programs like NOW or COMP, which provide extra services not covered by standard Medicaid. Georgia STABLE accounts are also available for eligible children[1][2][4].
Yes, adults may qualify for SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and waiver programs if they meet medical and financial criteria. Work history affects SSDI eligibility[4].
Your SSI benefits may be reduced or stopped. Always report income changes to SSA right away to avoid overpayments, which must be repaid[4]. See our guide on [Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes](/guides/overpayments-and-reporting) for tips.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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Wait times vary; thousands are on the planning list. Recent state budget investments may help reduce wait times, but it’s important to apply as soon as possible and check back regularly[1].
Start with the Georgia DBHDD for waivers, the SSA for SSI/SSDI, and Georgia STABLE for ABLE accounts. Local disability organizations and your healthcare provider may also offer guidance[1][2][4].
Yes, but earnings over the SSI limit ($1,620/month in 2025) may affect your benefits. SSDI and Georgia STABLE have different earn-while-you-work rules. See our guide on [SSI & SSDI Work Incentives](/guides/work-incentives) for details[2][4].
You can appeal the decision. Gather more evidence, request a reconsideration, and, if needed, request a hearing. Legal aid organizations can help with appeals for SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid.
