Maine does not have a state disability program, but people with short stature may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI. State resources focus on independent living, housing, and advocacy. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
People with short stature in Maine may qualify for federal disability benefits if their condition prevents them from working. The two main programs are Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and assets, including children and adults who have never worked. Both programs require a medical condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death, and that prevents substantial gainful activity. Children may also qualify if their disability began before age 22 and a parent is receiving Social Security benefits [7].
To qualify, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. This means your condition must be severe enough to stop you from doing any kind of work you did before, and you cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition [7].
Maine does not have a state disability program for short stature or other disabilities. Instead, Mainers rely on federal programs like SSDI and SSI. Maine does offer some support services for people with disabilities, such as independent living programs, assistive technology, and advocacy. These services do not provide direct cash benefits but can help with daily living and community access. Maine also has a Disability Retirement Program for public employees, but this is not available to most people with short stature unless they are state workers [2].
If you are a public employee, you may qualify for disability retirement if you have a medically diagnosable condition that makes you unable to work and is expected to be permanent. This is separate from SSDI or SSI and has different rules [2].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Maine residents can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE program. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like housing, education, and transportation [ABLE Accounts].
SSI has strict income and asset limits. In 2025, the federal SSI limit is $943/month for an individual. SSDI has no income limit, but you must not be doing substantial work. Work incentives can help you keep benefits while working [7][4].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and penalties. MaineHealth Vocational Services can help you understand reporting rules and avoid overpayments [4].
Contact MaineHealth Vocational Services or Disability Rights Maine for free help with your disability application and appeals.
Yes, if short stature prevents you from working and meets Social Security’s definition of disability. You must show medical evidence that your condition is severe and long-term [7].
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with low income and assets, including children and adults who have never worked [1].
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. Gather medical records and work history before applying [6].
Maine offers independent living, assistive technology, advocacy, and supportive housing programs. These do not provide cash benefits but help with daily living [3][5].
Yes, work incentives let you keep some benefits while working. MaineHealth Vocational Services can help you understand the rules [4].
It’s for public employees who become unable to work due to a permanent medical condition. It’s not available to most people with short stature unless they are state workers [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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Contact MaineHealth Vocational Services, Disability Rights Maine, or the Social Security Administration for help with your application and appeals [4][9][6].
Yes, the Section 811 PRA program provides permanent supportive housing for extremely low-income people with disabilities. Contact MaineHousing for more info [5].
Yes, if their disability began before age 22 and a parent is receiving Social Security benefits. They may qualify for Disabled Adult Child benefits [7].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. Maine residents can open one through the national ABLE program [ABLE Accounts].
