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Maine • Rare/Genetic
Maine does not have a state disability program, but people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome can qualify for federal benefits like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Maine also offers supportive housing, independent living services, and work incentives for those receiving federal disability benefits.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Maine, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) requirements. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a qualifying medical condition and enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years). SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes but can no longer work due to a health condition. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and assets, including those who have never worked or haven’t worked enough for SSDI. Both programs require that your disability is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Children with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome may also qualify for benefits if their condition meets SSA criteria[7][8].
Maine does not have a state disability program for general residents. Instead, people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome must apply for federal benefits through the SSA. MainePERS offers a Disability Retirement Program for eligible public employees who become unable to work due to a medical condition. To qualify, you must have a diagnosable condition, functional limitations that prevent you from performing your job, and the inability must be expected to be permanent. This is a retirement benefit, not a short-term disability program. Maine also provides supportive housing, independent living services, and work incentives for those receiving federal disability benefits[1][2][3][5][4].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for federal benefits like SSI and Medicaid. Maine residents with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome can open an ABLE account if their disability began before age 26. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, including housing, education, and transportation[ABLE Accounts].
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. SSDI has no income limit, but your earnings must not exceed the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,620 per month in 2025 ($2,700 if blind). Income limits for Medicaid and other programs vary by program and household size[7].
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you must report it and may have to repay the overpayment. Report changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to the SSA or Maine DHHS. Failure to report can result in penalties or loss of benefits[Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Contact MaineHealth Vocational Services for free benefits counseling and help understanding how work affects your benefits[4].
Yes, you can qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI if your Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome meets SSA criteria. Maine does not have a state disability program, so federal programs are the main source of benefits[1][7][8].
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes but can no longer work due to a health condition. SSI is for people with limited income and assets, including those who have never worked or haven’t worked enough for SSDI[SSI vs SSDI].
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. Gather medical records and work history before applying. Most applications are denied at first, so be prepared to appeal[1][6][7][8].
MainePERS disability retirement is a benefit for public employees who become unable to work due to a medical condition. You must have a diagnosable condition, functional limitations, and the inability to work must be expected to be permanent[2].
Maine offers the Section 811 PRA program for permanent supportive housing for extremely low-income people with disabilities. MaineHousing provides rental assistance; OADS provides support services[5].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always verify eligibility and requirements with official agencies.
Yes, MaineHealth Vocational Services offers work incentives counseling for people receiving Social Security disability benefits. Work incentives can help you keep benefits while working[4].
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for federal benefits. Maine residents can open an ABLE account if their disability began before age 26[ABLE Accounts].
Maine’s Independent Living Services Program helps people with significant disabilities live more independently in their homes and communities. Services are subject to funding availability[3].
Report changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to the SSA or Maine DHHS. Failure to report can result in penalties or loss of benefits[Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
The Disability Rights Center provides protection and advocacy services for eligible people of all ages with developmental disabilities or mental illness. DRC offers direct advocacy assistance, information, and referral[3].
