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Iowa • Rare/Genetic
People in Iowa with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These programs can help with income, health care, and daily living costs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Iowa, you must have a medical condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. Most adults need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your income and assets must be below certain limits. Both programs require medical proof that your Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome limits your ability to work. The Social Security Administration reviews your medical records and work history to decide eligibility 7 9.
State-specific information is limited; start here: Iowa Workforce Development and Iowa Medicaid. Iowa does not have a state disability insurance program like California. Most people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome in Iowa rely on federal programs (SSI/SSDI) and Medicaid. If you need help with daily living, Iowa offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. These waivers can help pay for personal care, therapy, and other supports. To qualify, you must meet income and disability requirements. Contact Iowa Medicaid or your local Area Agency on Aging for details https://iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/ https://dhs.iowa.gov/.
State-specific information is limited; start here: Iowa Workforce Development and Iowa Medicaid. Iowa does not have a state disability insurance program. Most people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome rely on federal programs and Medicaid. Iowa Medicaid offers waivers for home and community-based services. These waivers can help pay for personal care, therapy, and other supports. To qualify, you must meet income and disability requirements. Contact Iowa Medicaid or your local Area Agency on Aging for details https://iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/ https://dhs.iowa.gov/.
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Iowa, you can open an ABLE account through the state program. The account can pay for disability-related expenses like therapy, equipment, and housing. Contributions are tax-free, and earnings grow tax-free. Check the Iowa ABLE website for details and how to apply.
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. Iowa does not have a state supplement. For Medicaid, income limits vary by program. For Medicaid waivers, limits depend on the type of waiver. Contact Iowa Medicaid for current limits and how to apply.
You must report changes in income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to Social Security and Iowa Medicaid as soon as possible. Keep records of all reports and correspondence. For more details, see the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide.
Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or Iowa Workforce Development for help with applications and resources.
Yes, if Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome prevents you from working for at least a year, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You need medical proof and must meet work or income rules. Contact Social Security for details.
SSI is for people with low income and assets who can’t work due to disability. SSDI is for people with a work history who can’t work due to disability. Both programs require medical proof of disability.
You can apply for Medicaid online at Iowa DHS or HealthCare.gov. You may qualify if you have low income or get SSI. Medicaid covers health care, therapy, and more for people with disabilities.
Medicaid waivers help pay for home and community-based services like personal care and therapy. To qualify, you must meet income and disability requirements. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for details.
Yes, work incentives let you keep some benefits while working. You can earn a certain amount without losing SSI or Medicaid. Report changes to avoid overpayments. See the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide.
Report changes in income, work, or health to Social Security and Iowa Medicaid as soon as possible. Keep records of all reports and correspondence. For more details, see the Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for disability-related expenses. In Iowa, you can open an ABLE account through the state program. The account can pay for therapy, equipment, and housing.
It can take several months to get an initial decision. Most people are initially rejected and need to appeal. If you appeal and go to a hearing, the process takes around two years on average.
You need medical records that show how Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome affects your ability to work. Ask your doctor for a detailed letter. Include test results, treatment plans, and how your condition limits daily activities.
Yes, Medicaid waivers can help pay for personal care, therapy, and other supports. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for details on how to apply and what services are available.
