People with Muscular Dystrophy in Maryland can get help from federal and state programs. These include SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and state-specific cash and medical assistance. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability. For SSI, you need limited income and resources. For SSDI, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Muscular Dystrophy is a recognized disability if it meets the criteria in the Social Security Blue Book. You must be unable to do substantial work for at least 12 months. Children with Muscular Dystrophy may also qualify for benefits if they meet the rules for disabled children. [^1]
Work incentives let you try working without losing all benefits right away. [^1]
In Maryland, people with Muscular Dystrophy may qualify for state programs if they do not have dependent children and meet income and disability requirements. The Temporary Disability Assistance Program (TDAP) gives cash help to low-income disabled adults for up to 12 months in a 36-month period. You must have a medical report from a licensed practitioner. If your disability is expected to last 12 months or more, you must apply for SSI. [^2]
Maryland also offers the Employed Individuals with Disabilities (EID) Program, which provides Medicaid to people with disabilities who work for pay. There is no income limit for EID as of 2024, and you can save money in Independence Accounts without losing benefits. [^3]
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Maryland, you can open an ABLE account if your disability began before age 26. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) and the first $100,000 does not count against SSI limits. [^5]
You must report changes in income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to Social Security and your local DSS as soon as possible. [^6]
Contact your local Department of Social Services for help with state programs. For federal benefits, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213.
Yes, Muscular Dystrophy is a qualifying disability for SSI, SSDI, and Maryland state programs. You must meet the medical and financial rules for each program. [^1][^2]
Apply online at the Social Security website, by phone, or in person. You will need your Social Security number, medical records, and proof of income. [^1]
TDAP is a state program that gives cash help to low-income disabled adults without dependent children. You can get benefits for up to 12 months in a 36-month period. [^2]
Yes, work incentives let you try working without losing all benefits right away. You can keep some benefits while working. [^1]
The EID Program gives Medicaid to people with disabilities who work for pay. There is no income limit as of 2024, and you can save money in Independence Accounts. [^3]
You can get Medicaid through SSI, the EID Program if you work, or Medicaid waivers. Apply through Social Security or your local DSS. [^3][^4]
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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Medicaid waivers help people with disabilities live in the community. They can cover personal care, therapy, and other supports. Apply through your local DSS. [^4]
Yes, you can open an ABLE account to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. [^5]
You must report changes in income to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. [^6]
The process can take several months. It is important to apply as soon as possible and provide all required documents. [^1]
