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Maryland • Rare/Genetic
People with Rett Syndrome in Maryland may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and state cash assistance. Maryland also offers work incentives and ABLE accounts to help manage finances and maintain coverage.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. For SSDI, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Rett Syndrome is considered a disability if it severely limits your ability to work or function independently. Both programs require the disability to last at least 12 months or result in death. You can apply for SSI or SSDI if you are a child or adult with Rett Syndrome.
Rett Syndrome is listed in the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances program, which means applications are often processed faster.
Source: SSA Compassionate Allowances
In Maryland, people with Rett Syndrome may qualify for state programs like Temporary Disability Assistance Program (TDAP) and Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (EID). TDAP provides cash benefits to low-income disabled adults without dependent children for up to 12 months in a 36-month period. You must have a medical report from a licensed practitioner and be ineligible for other assistance. If your disability lasts 12 months or more, you must apply for SSI.
Maryland’s EID program lets people with disabilities keep Medicaid if they work for pay. There is no income limit, and you can save money in Independence Accounts without losing benefits. This is especially helpful for families managing long-term care needs.
Source: Maryland DHS TDAP Source: SSA Apply for Disability Source: Maryland Health Connection Source: Maryland ABLE
Source: SSA.gov Source: Medicaid.gov Source: Medicare.gov
Source: Maryland DHS TDAP Source: Maryland EID Program Source: Maryland Access Point
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Maryland’s ABLE program is managed by the state treasurer. You can save up to $100,000 without affecting SSI, and up to $16,000 per year in contributions. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses.
For SSI, the income limit is very low (about $943/month for an individual in 2024). SSDI has no income limit, but you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. TDAP is for low-income individuals, but exact limits vary by county. EID has no income limit for Medicaid eligibility.
Source: SSA.gov Source: Maryland DHS TDAP
You must report any changes in income, work, or medical status to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you don’t report changes or if your situation changes. If you get an overpayment, you may have to repay it, but you can request a waiver if it wasn’t your fault.
Rett Syndrome is on the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances list, which means applications are often processed faster than usual.
Maryland’s EID program lets people with disabilities keep Medicaid if they work for pay. There is no income limit, and you can save money in Independence Accounts.
Yes, children with Rett Syndrome can qualify for SSI if their family has low income and few assets. The disability must be expected to last at least 12 months. Apply through the Social Security Administration.
Gather medical records and apply for SSI or SSDI through Social Security. If you need cash help while waiting, apply for TDAP at your local Department of Social Services.
TDAP is a state program that gives cash benefits to low-income disabled adults without dependent children. You can get benefits for up to 12 months in a 36-month period, unless you are pursuing SSI.
Yes, Maryland’s EID program lets people with disabilities keep Medicaid if they work for pay. There is no income limit, and you can save money in Independence Accounts.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Maryland’s ABLE program is managed by the state treasurer.
Rett Syndrome is on the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances list, so applications are often processed faster. Most cases take a few months, but some are approved in weeks.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
You need medical records that show your Rett Syndrome diagnosis and how it affects daily life. A licensed medical practitioner must complete a medical report for TDAP.
Yes, people with Rett Syndrome can qualify for Medicaid through SSI, SSDI, or the EID program if they work. Medicaid covers medical and long-term care services.
If your application is denied, you can appeal. Contact a benefits counselor or legal aid for help with the appeals process.
Yes, Social Security and Maryland offer work incentives that let you keep benefits while working. These include Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities and ABLE accounts.
