People with intellectual disability in Idaho can access federal and state benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid waivers, and employment supports. Eligibility depends on medical, financial, and functional criteria. This guide explains how to apply and what benefits are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. For intellectual disability, this means:
SSDI requires work credits based on your earnings history. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require that your disability prevents you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months [1].
For children, benefits may continue into adulthood if the disability began before age 22 and meets adult criteria [2].
In Idaho, adults with intellectual disability may qualify for Medicaid waivers and other supports if they meet both financial and functional eligibility. To be eligible for Idaho’s Adult with Developmental Disabilities (DD) program:
Idaho’s Medicaid program also covers related conditions like cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and autism if they cause similar functional limitations [3].
If you are applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Idaho’s Disability Determinations Service (DDS) reviews your medical records and makes the eligibility decision for the SSA [4].
Federal work incentives allow some to earn income without losing benefits [5].
ABLE accounts let people with intellectual disability save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Idaho residents can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE program. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses do not count as income for SSI or Medicaid [7].
You must report changes in income, work, living situation, and medical condition to the SSA and Idaho Health and Welfare. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments and loss of benefits. If you receive an overpayment, you may be able to request a waiver or set up a repayment plan [5].
Contact Idaho Health and Welfare or your local Social Security office for help with applications and eligibility questions.
Intellectual disability is defined as an IQ test score of 70 or below (with a 5-point error margin) and significant limitations in at least three major life activities. The disability must be chronic and have started before age 22 for some benefits [3].
Yes, you can work and still get SSI or SSDI, but there are limits. In 2025, you cannot earn more than $1,620/month (or $2,700 if blind) without risking your benefits. Work incentives help you keep benefits while you try to work [1].
First, apply for Medicaid and be determined financially eligible. Then, complete a separate application and assessment for Idaho’s Adult with Developmental Disabilities program. The assessment determines your functional eligibility and service needs [3].
SSDI is for people with a work history who paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs have different eligibility rules and payment amounts [5].
Yes, children with intellectual disability may get SSI or SSDI if they meet the criteria. Benefits may continue into adulthood if the disability began before age 22 and meets adult criteria [2].
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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An ABLE account lets people with intellectual disability save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Idaho residents can open an account through the national ABLE program [7].
Report changes in income, work, living situation, and medical condition to the SSA and Idaho Health and Welfare. You can report online, by phone, or in person. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments and loss of benefits [5].
Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services like personal care, respite, supported employment, and therapy. Services are tailored to individual needs and may include care coordination and support for independent living [3].
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. Idaho DDS and the SSA provide information on the appeals process. You may need to provide additional documentation or attend a hearing [4].
Most disability benefits require U.S. citizenship or qualified non-citizen status. Check with the SSA or Idaho Health and Welfare for specific requirements [5].
