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Massachusetts • Rare/Genetic
People with Prader-Willi Syndrome in Massachusetts may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including 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 where to get help.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), eligibility is based on limited income and resources, and you must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. For children, the SSA considers both the child’s and family’s income and resources. In 2025, the SSI federal benefit rate is $967 per month for an individual and $1,450 for a couple. The SSDI benefit amount depends on your work history and earnings. For both programs, your disability must prevent you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA). In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals[1][3][4].
In Massachusetts, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by the MassAbility Disability Determination Services (DDS). DDS handles initial applications, appeals, and periodic reviews. Massachusetts also provides a small state supplement to SSI payments. The state uses over 70 in-house medical and mental-health professionals and 300 consultants to evaluate claims. DDS makes special outreach efforts to claimants without a home or who have HIV. To qualify for state-specific programs like Medicaid waivers, you must meet both federal and state criteria, including income, resources, and functional limitations. The state’s Medicaid waiver programs can provide home and community-based services for people with Prader-Willi Syndrome who need support with daily living[2][3][5].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. In Massachusetts, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. The account can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, transportation, and personal support services. Contributions to the account are not tax-deductible, but earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free[3].
It is important to report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in the loss of benefits or the need to repay money. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you receive an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan[3].
Contact MassAbility DDS for free help with your application. They can guide you through the process and answer your questions.
Prader-Willi Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that causes physical, mental, and behavioral problems. It often leads to obesity, intellectual disability, and other health issues. People with Prader-Willi Syndrome may qualify for disability benefits if their condition causes marked and severe functional limitations[4].
To qualify for SSI in Massachusetts, you must have limited income and resources, and meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. Your disability must prevent you from doing substantial gainful activity. The maximum federal payment in 2025 is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a couple. Massachusetts provides a small state supplement[3].
To apply for SSDI in Massachusetts, you need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local SSA office. You will need to provide medical records and proof of income[6].
Medicaid waivers in Massachusetts provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities who need support with daily living. These waivers can help with personal care, respite care, and other services. To qualify, you must meet both federal and state criteria, including income, resources, and functional limitations[5].
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. In Massachusetts, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. The account can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, transportation, and personal support services[3].
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.
You must report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in the loss of benefits or the need to repay money. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you receive an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan[3].
The SGA (Substantial Gainful Activity) limit for 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. If you earn more than this amount, you may lose your disability benefits[4].
Yes, children with Prader-Willi Syndrome can get SSI if their condition causes marked and severe functional limitations. The SSA considers both the child’s and family’s income and resources. The maximum federal payment in 2025 is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a couple[4].
MassAbility DDS handles initial applications, appeals, and periodic reviews for disability benefits in Massachusetts. They also conduct disability hearings and make special outreach efforts to claimants without a home or who have HIV[2].
You can get help with your application from MassAbility DDS, local advocacy organizations, or legal aid services. They can help you gather documents, fill out forms, and understand the process[2].
