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Massachusetts • Neurological/Developmental
If you have a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in Massachusetts, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with a traumatic brain injury, you must meet federal rules. For SSDI, you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your medical records, job history, and education to decide if your TBI prevents you from working. In 2025, the maximum SSI payment is $967/month for an individual and $1,450/month for a married couple. SSDI payments vary based on your earnings history and are adjusted yearly for inflation (2.5% COLA in 2025) [1][3][5].
In Massachusetts, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by MassAbility Disability Determination Services (DDS). DDS uses medical and mental health professionals to review your case. They consider your detailed job history, education, medical records, and information from providers, family, and friends. For SSI, Massachusetts adds a small state supplement to the federal payment. Medicaid waivers (HCBS) are available for those who need long-term care at home or in the community. These waivers help cover services not paid by regular Medicaid, such as personal care, respite, and supported employment. To qualify, you must meet both federal and state criteria, including income and asset limits [2][3][4].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid. In Massachusetts, you can open an ABLE account to pay for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, transportation, and personal support. The account has annual and lifetime contribution limits, and earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed [6].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum federal payment is $967/month for an individual and $1,450/month for a married couple. Massachusetts adds a small state supplement. Income is counted in the month it’s received and includes cash, in-kind payments, and deemed income from a spouse or parent. SSDI has a Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit; in 2025, this is expected to be around $1,470/month for non-blind individuals and $2,460/month for blind individuals. Exceeding these limits may affect your benefits [1][3].
You must report changes in income, living situation, or health to the SSA and DDS. Failure to report can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay. Overpayments can happen if you earn more than the SGA limit, move, or receive other benefits. Always report changes promptly to avoid issues [3][6].
Contact MassAbility DDS for support with your disability determination and application process. They have medical and mental health professionals to help review your case.
SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical proof that your TBI prevents you from working.
Gather medical records and job history, contact MassAbility DDS for a disability determination, and apply for SSDI or SSI through the SSA. You may also apply for Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts.
The maximum federal SSI payment in 2025 is $967/month for an individual and $1,450/month for a married couple. Massachusetts adds a small state supplement to this amount.
Yes, but there are income limits. For SSDI, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit in 2025 is expected to be around $1,470/month for non-blind individuals. For SSI, earned income is treated more favorably than unearned income.
Medicaid waivers (HCBS) provide home and community-based services for those with TBI who need long-term care. Services include personal care, respite, supported employment, and more, helping you live independently.
You can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. These accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult official sources or a benefits expert for personalized advice.
You must report any changes in income to the SSA and DDS. Failure to report can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay. Always report changes promptly.
Yes, children with TBI may qualify for SSI or Childhood Disability Benefits (CDB) if they meet medical and financial criteria. Parents can apply on their behalf.
You need detailed medical records, including doctor’s notes, test results, treatment plans, and information about how your TBI affects your daily life and ability to work.
The time varies, but MassAbility DDS aims to make decisions as quickly as possible. It can take several months, depending on the complexity of your case and the need for additional information.
