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Massachusetts • Learning
If you have dysgraphia in Massachusetts, you may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI, SSDI) and state supports. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, income limits, and additional Massachusetts-specific programs.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with dysgraphia, you must meet Social Security’s strict definition of disability. For adults, this means your condition must prevent you from working at a substantial level for at least 12 months. For children, the condition must cause “marked and severe functional limitations.” Dysgraphia alone is rarely enough; it must be severe and well-documented, often with co-occurring conditions. SSDI requires enough work credits, while SSI is based on financial need and disability[3][5]. Income and resources are closely reviewed for SSI—both your own and, for children, those of household members[3]. If you’re working, earnings above $1,620/month in 2025 (or $2,700 if blind) generally disqualify you from SSI[3].
Massachusetts supplements federal SSI with a small additional cash payment through the State Supplement Program (SSP)[4]. You must already qualify for federal SSI to receive SSP. The state also offers Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children (EAEDC), which provides temporary cash assistance if you’re unable to work due to a medical condition and have very low income and assets[4]. For all programs, documentation of your dysgraphia’s impact on daily life and, if applicable, other learning or neurological conditions is crucial. Massachusetts has no separate disability program just for learning disabilities like dysgraphia; eligibility follows federal guidelines, but state supplements and temporary aid may help while you wait for a decision[4].
1. Document Your Disability: Collect school records, psychological evaluations, and medical reports that detail the severity of your dysgraphia. Include evidence of how it limits major life activities, especially if you have other diagnosed conditions.
2. Check Financial Eligibility: Review SSI income and resource limits. For children, parental income and resources are also considered[3]. Use the SSI Income Estimator to see if you qualify.
3. Start Your Federal Application: Apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov or by phone at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)[1]. You can also visit a local Social Security office.
4. Submit to Massachusetts DDS: MassAbility Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews your claim for eligibility. They may request more information or a consultative exam[1].
5. Apply for State Benefits: If you qualify for SSI, you’re automatically considered for Massachusetts’ SSP[4]. For temporary assistance, apply for EAEDC through the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA).[4]
6. Follow Up and Appeal if Needed: If denied, you can appeal with help from DDS. Keep copies of all documents and correspondence.
7. Report Changes: Notify Social Security and DTA of any changes in income, living situation, or medical condition, as these can affect your benefits. See Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes for more.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Federal cash benefit for adults and children with disabilities and limited income/resources. The 2025 maximum is $967/month for individuals, $1,450 for couples. Payment amounts depend on income, living situation, and other factors[2].
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For adults who have worked and paid into Social Security. You need enough work credits to qualify[5].
Childhood Disability Benefits (CDB): Pays benefits to adults disabled before age 22 if a parent is retired, disabled, or deceased[3].
State Supplement Program (SSP): Massachusetts adds a small payment to federal SSI for eligible residents. You must be approved for SSI first[4].
Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children (EAEDC): State-funded cash assistance for people with very low income and assets who are unable to work due to disability. This can help while you wait for SSI/SSDI decisions[4].
Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA): Administers EAEDC and other programs. DTA also runs SNAP (food assistance) and Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC)[4].
Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML): Massachusetts offers paid leave for medical reasons, which may apply if your dysgraphia requires time off work. Check if your employer participates[4].
Medicaid (MassHealth): Provides health coverage for people with disabilities, including access to therapies and supports. See Medicaid vs Medicare and Medicaid Waivers (HCBS).
If your main needs are educational, also connect with your local school district—this guide covers cash and health benefits, not special education services.
ABLE Accounts let people with disabilities (onset before age 26) save money without affecting SSI resource limits. Earnings and withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free. In Massachusetts, you can open an ABLE account regardless of which state’s plan you choose. See ABLE Accounts for details.
SSI income limits are strict: in 2025, the maximum federal benefit is $967/month for individuals, $1,450 for couples[2]. Income includes wages, self-employment, gifts, and in-kind support. Massachusetts counts the federal limits, plus a state supplement[2][4]. Children’s eligibility also depends on household income[3]. If you work, earned income is treated more favorably than unearned income[2].
You must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and DTA. Failing to do so can lead to overpayments, which you may have to repay. See Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes for tips and deadlines. Appeals are possible if you believe you were overpaid by mistake.
Collect detailed records: Include school evaluations, medical reports, and statements from teachers or therapists that show how dysgraphia affects daily tasks.
Highlight functional limits: Focus on how your condition makes it hard to work, learn, or care for yourself, not just the diagnosis.
Follow up: Respond quickly to requests for more information from DDS or Social Security.
Massachusetts offers more than cash—MassHealth (Medicaid) covers therapies and services for eligible residents. SNAP and EAEDC help with food and emergency expenses. Paid Family and Medical Leave may help if you need time off work for treatment. Ask your local DTA office about all options.
Dysgraphia alone is rarely enough. You need to show it causes “marked and severe functional limitations,” often with other diagnosed conditions. Documentation from doctors and schools is key. Eligibility follows federal guidelines, even in Massachusetts[3].
The maximum federal SSI payment is $967/month for individuals, $1,450 for couples. Massachusetts adds a small state supplement. Your actual amount depends on income, living arrangements, and other benefits[2][4].
Your child may qualify for SSI if their condition is severe and household income/resources are low. Parental income affects eligibility for children. Medical and school records are required[3].
Start with the federal SSI/SSDI application at ssa.gov or by phone. Massachusetts’ DDS will review your case. If approved for SSI, you’ll get the state supplement automatically[1][4].
SSI is for people with limited income/assets, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those who’ve worked and earned enough credits. See [SSI vs SSDI](/guides/ssi-ssdi) for a full comparison.
Yes, but your earnings must stay under $1,620/month in 2025 (non-blind). Earned income is treated better than unearned income. See [SSI & SSDI Work Incentives](/guides/work-incentives) for details[2].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or medical advice. Program rules and benefit amounts change. Always confirm details with official agencies.
Yes, Massachusetts offers Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children (EAEDC) for those with very low income who are unable to work. Apply through DTA[4].
You can appeal. Massachusetts DDS helps with appeals and may request more evidence. Keep all records and meet deadlines[1].
ABLE accounts let you save and earn without losing SSI eligibility, as long as you follow the rules. See [ABLE Accounts](/guides/able-accounts) for full details.
Tell Social Security and Massachusetts DTA about income, address, or family changes. See [Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes](/guides/overpayments-and-reporting) for how and when to report.
