People with Spina Bifida in Maine can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI/SSDI, Medicaid waivers, ABLE accounts, and work supports. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must have a medically documented condition that prevents substantial work for at least 12 months. For SSI, you must also have limited income and resources. Spina Bifida often meets these criteria, especially if it causes mobility or other functional limitations. Children with Spina Bifida may qualify for SSI if the condition severely limits their activities. Adults whose disability began before age 22 may be eligible for benefits on a parent’s Social Security record, even if they never worked themselves. All applicants must meet Social Security’s definition of disability and work credit requirements if applying for SSDI [3].
In Maine, people with Spina Bifida may qualify for Medicaid waivers that cover home and community-based services, such as personal care, respite, and assistive technology. These waivers help individuals live independently and avoid institutional care. Maine also offers ABLE accounts, which allow tax-advantaged savings for disability-related expenses without affecting eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other means-tested benefits. Public employees with Spina Bifida who are unable to work may be eligible for disability retirement through MainePERS, provided they meet medical and functional criteria. Eligibility for these programs depends on the severity of the disability and its impact on daily life and employment [1][2].
ABLE ME is Maine’s ABLE account program, designed to help people with disabilities save for qualified disability expenses on a tax-advantaged basis. Accounts can be opened by eligible individuals or their families. Contributions do not affect eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other means-tested benefits. As of 2025, ABLE ME has nearly 1,700 accounts and over $10 million in assets. To open an account, visit the ABLE ME website or contact Bangor Savings Bank [1].
For SSI, the 2025 federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Maine may have higher limits for Medicaid. ABLE accounts have a lifetime contribution limit of $100,000, but this does not count toward SSI resource limits. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but substantial earnings (over $1,620 per month in 2025) may affect eligibility [3].
If you receive SSI or SSDI, you must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit reductions. For Medicaid, report changes in income or resources to MaineCare. For ABLE accounts, report any changes that affect eligibility. Always keep records of all reports and communications [3].
Contact Disability Rights Maine for free advocacy and support with applications, appeals, and understanding your rights.
People with Spina Bifida in Maine may qualify for SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, Medicare, and Medicaid waivers. SSI provides cash assistance for those with limited income, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid into Social Security. Medicaid covers medical and long-term care, and waivers provide home and community-based services.
To apply for Medicaid waivers in Maine, contact MaineCare at 1-800-977-6740 or visit their website. You’ll need to provide medical records and proof of income. Waivers cover services like personal care, respite, and assistive technology for people with Spina Bifida.
Yes, you can save money in an ABLE account without losing SSI, Medicaid, or other means-tested benefits. ABLE ME is Maine’s ABLE account program, which allows tax-advantaged savings for disability-related expenses. Contributions do not count toward SSI resource limits.
SSI is for people with disabilities who have limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid into Social Security. Both provide monthly cash benefits, but eligibility and benefit amounts differ. SSI is need-based, while SSDI is based on work history.
Yes, children with Spina Bifida may qualify for SSI if their condition severely limits their activities. Children may also receive benefits on a parent’s Social Security record if the parent is retired, disabled, or deceased. Benefits for children stop at age 18 unless they have a qualifying disability.
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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A Medicaid waiver allows people with disabilities to receive home and community-based services instead of institutional care. In Maine, waivers cover services like personal care, respite, and assistive technology for people with Spina Bifida, helping them live independently.
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and MaineCare. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit reductions. Always keep records of all reports and communications to avoid issues.
Disability Rights Maine provides advocacy, legal help, and support for people with disabilities. They can help with applications, appeals, and understanding your rights. Contact them for assistance with any disability-related issues.
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits, but there are limits. SSI has strict income limits, while SSDI allows some earnings. Work incentives programs help people with disabilities try working without losing benefits. Contact Social Security for details.
Disability retirement in Maine is for public employees who become unable to work due to a disability. It provides a retirement benefit based on medical and functional criteria. Contact MainePERS for application forms and requirements.
