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Massachusetts • Neurological/Developmental
People with intellectual disability in Massachusetts can access federal and state benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. Eligibility depends on medical, financial, and work history factors. This guide explains how to apply, what benefits are available, and how to manage your payments.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability. For adults, this means you cannot do substantial work due to your condition, and it must last at least 12 months or result in death. For children, the condition must cause marked and severe functional limitations. You must also meet financial and work history requirements. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your medical records, work history, and income to decide eligibility [1].
For SSDI, you need enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years) [6]. For SSI, there are strict income and resource limits. In 2025, the SSI federal benefit rate is $967/month for an individual and $1,450/month for a couple [3].
The SSA also sets Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind adults and $2,700/month for blind adults. Earning above these amounts can affect your benefits [4].
In Massachusetts, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by MassAbility Disability Determination Services (DDS). DDS reviews your medical records, job history, education, and other information to decide if you qualify for SSDI or SSI. They may also order medical exams or consult with specialists [2].
Massachusetts pays a small state supplement to SSI recipients, which increases the total monthly payment. The state also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with personal care, therapy, and other supports. To qualify for these waivers, you must meet both federal and state criteria, including medical need and financial eligibility [5].
If you are a child with intellectual disability, your family’s income and resources may be considered when determining SSI eligibility. Children must meet strict medical and functional criteria to qualify [4].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation. Massachusetts offers the ABLEnow program, which is easy to open and manage [7].
It is important to report any changes in your income, work, or living situation to the SSA and MassHealth. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person [4].
Contact MassAbility Disability Determination Services for help with your application. They can answer questions and guide you through the process [2].
Consider opening an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without risking your SSI or Medicaid benefits [7].
SSI is for people with low income and limited resources, while SSDI is for those with a work history. Both programs provide monthly payments to people with disabilities. SSI is needs-based, while SSDI is based on your earnings record [6].
In 2025, the federal SSI payment rate is $967/month for an individual. Massachusetts adds a small state supplement. Your total countable income must be below the SSI limit to qualify [3].
Yes, you can work, but there are limits. For SSDI, you cannot earn more than the SGA limit ($1,620/month for non-blind adults, $2,700/month for blind adults). SSI has different rules and work incentives [4].
A Medicaid waiver lets people with disabilities get services in the community instead of in institutions. Services may include personal care, therapy, and support coordination. To qualify, you must meet medical and financial criteria [5].
You can apply online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need to provide medical records, work history, and other documents. MassAbility DDS reviews your case and makes eligibility decisions [2].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation [7].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
The process can take several months. The SSA reviews your case and may request additional information. If denied, you have 60 days to appeal [6].
Yes, you must report any changes in your income, work, or living situation to avoid overpayments. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person [4].
Yes, children with intellectual disability may qualify for SSI if they meet medical and financial criteria. Family income and resources are considered when determining eligibility [4].
If denied, you have 60 days to appeal. You can request a reconsideration, a hearing, or further review. It is important to act quickly and provide any additional information requested [6].
