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Maine • Neurological/Developmental
People in Maine with Tourette Syndrome may qualify for federal disability benefits, Medicaid, and state support programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what resources are available.
If Tourette Syndrome prevents you from working, you may qualify for federal disability benefits. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. You usually need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and assets, including children and adults who haven’t worked enough for SSDI. Both programs require that your condition is expected to last at least 12 months and meets Social Security’s definition of disability[1][7].
Children with Tourette Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their family’s income and assets are low. Adults with a disability that began before age 22 may be eligible for benefits based on a parent’s Social Security record, even if they never worked[7].
Maine does not have a state-run disability program for adults or children. Instead, Mainers rely on federal programs like SSDI and SSI for income support. Maine does offer Medicaid for people with disabilities, including children with Tourette Syndrome who meet income and asset limits. Maine also provides services such as vocational rehabilitation, independent living support, and assistive technology for people with disabilities[3][5].
If you are a public employee in Maine, you may qualify for MainePERS Disability Retirement if you become unable to work due to Tourette Syndrome and meet medical and employment requirements[2]. Maine’s Section 811 PRA program offers permanent supportive housing for extremely low-income people with disabilities, including those with Tourette Syndrome[5].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for disability-related expenses like education, housing, and transportation. Maine residents can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE program[3].
SSI has strict income and asset limits. In 2025, the limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. SSDI has no asset limit, but your work history must meet Social Security’s requirements[1][7].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Use the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide to learn how working affects your benefits[4].
Contact MaineHealth Vocational Services for free benefits counseling and help with work incentives. They can guide you through the application process and answer questions about how working affects your benefits[4].
The Disability Rights Center and Client Assistance Program offer advocacy, legal help, and support for people with disabilities in Maine[3][9].
Yes, if Tourette Syndrome prevents you from working and meets Social Security’s definition of disability, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. Children may qualify for SSI or Medicaid waivers if their family’s income is low[1][7].
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and assets, including children and adults who haven’t worked enough for SSDI. Both programs require that your condition is expected to last at least 12 months[1][7].
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You can also apply for SSI at your local Department of Health and Human Services office. Gather medical records and work history before applying[6].
Children with Tourette Syndrome may qualify for SSI or Medicaid waivers if their family’s income is low. Maine also offers vocational rehabilitation, independent living support, and assistive technology for children with disabilities[3].
Yes, Social Security has work incentives that let you try working without losing benefits. MaineHealth Vocational Services can help you understand how working affects your benefits[4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
MainePERS Disability Retirement is for public employees who become unable to work due to Tourette Syndrome. You must prove medical need and meet employment requirements[2].
If you get SSI, you automatically qualify for Medicaid. If you get SSDI, you may qualify after 24 months. Children may qualify for Medicaid waivers if their family’s income is low[3].
Section 811 PRA is a federal program that provides permanent supportive housing for extremely low-income people with disabilities, including those with Tourette Syndrome. MaineHousing and the Department of Health and Human Services run the program[5].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for disability-related expenses like education, housing, and transportation. Maine residents can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE program[3].
You can get help from MaineHealth Vocational Services, the Disability Rights Center, and local Social Security offices. These organizations offer counseling, advocacy, and support for people with disabilities[3][4].
