If you have Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) in Maryland, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These include cash help, health coverage, and support for work. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what programs are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have low income and few assets. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs cover physical and mental health conditions, including Myalgic Encephalomyelitis. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your medical records and work history to decide if you qualify. You can learn more about eligibility on the SSA website.
Learn more about federal eligibility
In Maryland, you may qualify for state disability programs if you have Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and meet income and disability requirements. The Temporary Disability Assistance Program (TDAP) provides cash benefits for up to 12 months out of every 36 months to low-income disabled adults without dependent children. To qualify, you must verify your disability with a medical report from a licensed practitioner. If your disability is expected to last 12 months or more, you must also apply for SSI. Maryland also offers Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (EID), which provides Medicaid coverage if you work for pay. There is no income limit for EID as of 2024, and you can save money in Independence Accounts without affecting eligibility.
Apply for federal benefits Apply for state benefits Learn more about the application process
Learn more about SSI/SSDI Learn more about work incentives
Learn more about TDAP Learn more about EID Learn more about Medicaid waivers
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. In Maryland, you can open an ABLE account to save for qualified disability expenses. The account does not count toward the resource limit for SSI or Medicaid. You can learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one on the official ABLE website.
Learn more about ABLE accounts
Learn more about SSI income limits
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you get an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan.
Contact your local Department of Social Services or a benefits counselor for help with your application. You can also call Maryland Access Point at 211 for free assistance.
Yes, if your Myalgic Encephalomyelitis prevents you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI, SSDI, or state programs like TDAP. You must meet income and disability requirements for each program.
You can apply for federal benefits online at SSA.gov or by phone. For state benefits, apply online at MarylandBenefits.gov or in person at your local Department of Social Services. You will need medical records and proof of income.
SSI is for people with low income and few assets, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both provide cash and health coverage for people with disabilities.
Yes, work incentives let you keep benefits while you try to work. Programs like EID provide Medicaid if you work for pay. Special rules help you keep SSI or SSDI if you earn some income.
TDAP is a state program that provides cash benefits for up to 12 months out of every 36 months to low-income disabled adults without dependent children. You must verify your disability with a medical report.
The EID program provides Medicaid coverage for people with disabilities who work for pay. There is no income limit, and you can save money in Independence Accounts without affecting eligibility.
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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The amount depends on your program, income, and living situation. SSI and SSDI payments vary, and TDAP provides up to $185 per month. Contact the agency for current figures.
Yes, you must provide a medical report from a licensed practitioner to verify your disability for state programs like TDAP. Federal programs also require medical evidence.
Yes, if you have a disability and low income, you may qualify for Medicaid. The EID program provides Medicaid if you work for pay, and there is no income limit as of 2024.
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. Contact the agency for instructions on how to appeal and get help from a benefits counselor if needed.
