People with dysgraphia in Maryland may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, Medicaid, and state programs. Eligibility depends on how the disability affects daily life and work. This guide explains steps to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, your dysgraphia must be severe enough to limit your ability to work or do daily activities. SSI is for people with low income and few resources. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs require medical proof of your disability, such as a diagnosis from a doctor and documentation of how it affects your life. Children with dysgraphia may also qualify if their condition meets Social Security’s definition of disability for minors.
Citations: Social Security Administration - How to Qualify for Disability (accessed 2025-11-06)
In Maryland, people with dysgraphia may qualify for Medicaid waivers if their disability is considered developmental. The Community Pathways Waiver, effective October 2025, combines previous waivers and offers services to help people live in the community. Eligibility is based on a diagnosis and how the disability affects daily life. Maryland also has the Temporary Disability Assistance Program (TDAP) for short-term help, and the Employed Individuals with Disabilities (EID) program for workers who need Medicaid. ABLE accounts are available for saving money without losing benefits.
Citations: Maryland DDA Waiver Changes (accessed 2025-11-06), Maryland TDAP (accessed 2025-11-06), Maryland EID Program (accessed 2025-11-06), Maryland ABLE Accounts (accessed 2025-11-06)
Citations: Social Security Administration - How to Apply (accessed 2025-11-06), Maryland DDA Waiver Changes (accessed 2025-11-06), Maryland TDAP (accessed 2025-11-06), Maryland EID Program (accessed 2025-11-06), Maryland ABLE Accounts (accessed 2025-11-06)
Citations: Social Security Administration - Disability Benefits (accessed 2025-11-06)
Citations: Maryland DDA Waiver Changes (accessed 2025-11-06), Maryland TDAP (accessed 2025-11-06), Maryland EID Program (accessed 2025-11-06), Maryland ABLE Accounts (accessed 2025-11-06)
Maryland ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation. To open an account, you must have a qualifying disability and meet the program’s requirements. Visit MarylandABLE.org to apply.
Citations: Maryland ABLE Accounts (accessed 2025-11-06)
Federal programs like SSI have strict income and resource limits. For SSI, the 2025 limit is $943 per month for an individual. SSDI has no income limit, but you must have a qualifying work history. Maryland’s EID program has no income limit and does not count a spouse’s resources or retirement accounts. TDAP has income limits based on state guidelines.
Citations: Social Security Administration - SSI Limits (accessed 2025-11-06), Maryland EID Program (accessed 2025-11-06), Maryland TDAP (accessed 2025-11-06)
If your income or resources change, you must report it to avoid overpayments. This includes changes in work, savings, or living situation. Overpayments can lead to repayment demands or loss of benefits. Report changes to Social Security, Medicaid, or your local Department of Social Services as soon as possible.
Citations: Social Security Administration - Reporting Changes (accessed 2025-11-06), Maryland DDA Waiver Changes (accessed 2025-11-06)
Contact your local Department of Social Services or a benefits counselor for help with applications. They can guide you through the process and answer questions.
Yes, if dysgraphia severely limits your ability to work or do daily activities, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You need medical proof and documentation of how it affects your life. Contact Social Security for details.
The Community Pathways Waiver is a Medicaid program for people with developmental disabilities, including some learning disabilities. It helps people live in the community and access support services. Effective October 2025.
Apply for TDAP at your local Department of Social Services in person, by mail, fax, or online at MarylandBenefits.gov. You need a medical report from a licensed practitioner.
The Employed Individuals with Disabilities (EID) program helps workers with disabilities keep Medicaid while employed. There is no income limit, and it does not count a spouse’s resources or retirement accounts.
Yes, Maryland ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses. Apply online at MarylandABLE.org.
Yes, report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. This includes changes in work, savings, or living situation. Report to Social Security, Medicaid, or your local Department of Social Services.
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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If your dysgraphia is not severe enough for federal benefits, you may still qualify for state programs like TDAP or Medicaid waivers. Contact your local Department of Social Services for help.
Yes, children with dysgraphia may qualify for SSI if their condition meets Social Security’s definition of disability for minors. Contact Social Security for details.
SSI is for people with low income and few resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65+. SSDI is for people who are disabled and have a work history. Both require medical proof of disability.
The process can take several months. SSI and SSDI applications are reviewed by Social Security. State programs like TDAP may be faster. Keep all records and follow up regularly.
