Tourette Syndrome Benefits in Massachusetts

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. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require that your Tourette Syndrome causes significant limitations in work or daily living. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses medical evidence, job history, and other records to decide eligibility[5].

In Massachusetts, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by MassAbility Disability Determination Services (DDS). DDS reviews medical records, job history, education, and other information to decide if you qualify for SSDI or SSI. For Medicaid waivers, you must meet both federal and state criteria, including income and functional limitations. Children with Tourette Syndrome may qualify for additional supports through MassHealth and special education programs[2][4].

• Gather medical records and job history.
• Contact MassAbility DDS to start your application.
• Apply online for SSI/SSDI at SSA.gov or in person at a local office.
• For Medicaid waivers, contact MassHealth or your local Area Agency on Aging.
• Report changes to keep benefits active.

• Collect all medical records, including diagnosis, treatment history, and how Tourette Syndrome affects daily life.
• Prepare a detailed job history for the last 15 years, including physical requirements of each job.
• Contact MassAbility DDS by phone or in person to begin the disability determination process[2].
• Apply for SSI or SSDI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office[5].
• For Medicaid waivers, contact MassHealth or your local Area Agency on Aging to request an assessment and application.
• For ABLE accounts, visit the official MA ABLE program website and complete the application.
• Report any changes in income, living situation, or health to avoid overpayments and keep benefits active[4].

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Provides monthly payments if you have a qualifying work history and disability.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Provides monthly payments for people with limited income and resources, including children with disabilities.
• Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Offers home and community-based services for people with disabilities who meet eligibility criteria.
• ABLE Accounts: Allows tax-free savings for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility.

• MassHealth: Massachusetts’ Medicaid program provides health coverage for people with disabilities, including children with Tourette Syndrome.
• Medicaid Waivers: Offer home and community-based services for eligible individuals, such as personal care, respite care, and supported employment.
• MassAbility DDS: Determines eligibility for SSDI and SSI in Massachusetts.
• State SSI Supplement: Massachusetts pays a small additional amount to SSI recipients.
• Paid Family and Medical Leave: Provides paid leave for eligible workers, including those with Tourette Syndrome who need time off for medical reasons[1].

ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Massachusetts, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s official program. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses[4].

For SSI in 2025, the maximum federal payment is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a married couple. Massachusetts adds a small state supplement. Income limits for MassHealth and Medicaid waivers vary by program and household size. Use the SSI Income Estimator tool to check your eligibility[3].

Report changes in income, living situation, or health to avoid overpayments and keep benefits active. If you receive too much, you may have to pay it back. Keep records of all changes and report them promptly to the Social Security Administration or MassHealth[4].

• MassAbility Disability Determination Services
  Phone: 617-727-1600 or 617-654-7485

  Website

  Boston Location: 135 Santilli Way, Everett, MA 02149

• Can Tourette Syndrome qualify for disability benefits in Massachusetts?

  Yes, if Tourette Syndrome significantly limits your ability to work or perform daily activities, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. Medical evidence and job history are key factors in the decision.

• How do I apply for disability benefits in Massachusetts?

  Start by gathering medical records and job history. Contact MassAbility DDS to begin the process. You can apply for SSI or SSDI online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office.

• What is the maximum SSI payment in Massachusetts in 2025?

  The maximum federal SSI payment in 2025 is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a married couple. Massachusetts adds a small state supplement to this amount.

• Are there Medicaid waivers for people with Tourette Syndrome in Massachusetts?

  Yes, Massachusetts offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. Eligibility depends on income, functional limitations, and other criteria. Contact MassHealth for details.

• Can I save money in an ABLE account if I have Tourette Syndrome?

  Yes, ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Massachusetts has its own ABLE program for residents.

• How does Paid Family and Medical Leave work in Massachusetts?

  Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave provides paid leave for eligible workers who need time off for medical reasons. The contribution rate is 0.88% of eligible wages, and benefits are based on average weekly wage.