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Michigan • Rare/Genetic
People with Williams Syndrome in Michigan may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and the State Disability Assistance program. Eligibility depends on medical, income, and work history rules. This guide explains how to apply, key programs, and what to expect throughout the process.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Williams Syndrome, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s strict definition of disability, which requires a severe condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death, and that prevents substantial work. For SSDI, you must also have sufficient work credits (usually 20 credits earned in the last 10 years)[5][6]. SSI is needs-based, requiring limited income and resources (under $2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples in 2025)[2]. Children with Williams Syndrome may qualify for SSI if the family meets income and resource limits, and adults who became disabled before age 22 may be eligible for SSDI as a Disabled Adult Child (DAC) on a parent’s record[5]. Federal rules apply in all states, including Michigan[6].
Michigan follows federal eligibility rules for SSI and SSDI, but offers extra help through the State Disability Assistance (SDA) program for adults with disabilities who have very low income and few assets[4][7]. SDA is only available to Michigan residents who are U.S. citizens or qualifying immigrants, and you cannot receive cash assistance from any other state[4]. Some people receiving SSI in Michigan may get a small state supplement on top of the federal payment, depending on living arrangements[3]. Medicaid eligibility in Michigan is automatic for SSI recipients, and the state also offers Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waivers for extra support—check the Michigan Medicaid website for waiver details[2]. State-specific rules and programs can change; always verify with Michigan’s Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS)[7][8].
SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Monthly cash benefit for people with disabilities and very low income/resources. No work history required. In 2025, the maximum federal SSI payment is $943/month for individuals, $1,415 for couples. Some Michigan residents may receive a small state supplement on top of this[2][3]. SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): Monthly benefit based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. Requires a recent and consistent work history. Benefits vary by your earnings record[1][6]. Medicare: Available after 24 months of SSDI eligibility. Medicaid: Automatic for SSI recipients in Michigan, covering doctor visits, therapies, and prescriptions. ABLE Accounts: Save for disability expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid—see our ABLE Accounts guide for Michigan details[2].
State Disability Assistance (SDA): Michigan’s cash assistance program for adults with disabilities and very low income. Must be a Michigan resident, U.S. citizen or qualifying immigrant, and not receive cash aid from another state. Apply through MDHHS; interpreter services are available if needed[4][7]. Michigan Medicaid: Covers health care for low-income residents with disabilities, including those with Williams Syndrome. Apply through MDHHS. Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Michigan offers several waivers that fund in-home supports, respite care, and community living services beyond regular Medicaid—ask your local MDHHS office for details. State Supplement: Some SSI recipients in Michigan get a small extra payment, depending on living situation[3]. Housing Assistance: Federal and state programs help with rent and utilities for people with disabilities[9]. For additional support, contact Michigan’s Disability Network or local legal aid.
Michigan residents with Williams Syndrome can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other needs-based benefits. Earnings grow tax-free, and funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, health, and more. See our ABLE Accounts guide for state-specific info and how to enroll.
For SSI, income and resources must be very low—under $2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples in 2025[2]. For SSDI, there’s no strict income limit, but earnings above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level ($1,530/month for non-blind individuals in 2025) can affect eligibility[1]. SDA has its own low-income limits set by the state[4]. Always report income changes promptly to avoid overpayments.
You must report changes in income, living situation, or resources to Social Security and MDHHS. Failing to report can lead to overpayments, which you may have to repay. If you receive too much, contact the agency immediately to arrange repayment. Our Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide has more tips.
Some SSI recipients in Michigan receive a small state supplement, depending on living arrangements. SDA provides additional cash assistance for very low-income adults with disabilities, including those with rare conditions like Williams Syndrome—check with MDHHS for current rules[3][4][7].
If the application process is confusing or you need language assistance, Michigan Legal Help and MDHHS can help. You have the right to an interpreter, and applications are available in multiple languages[4].
Many people with disabilities are denied benefits at first but win on appeal. Consider contacting legal aid or a disability attorney if you are denied—they can help with paperwork, gather medical evidence, and represent you at hearings[3].
SSI is for people with disabilities and very low income/resources, while SSDI requires a work history and enough Social Security credits. Both require medical proof that Williams Syndrome severely limits your ability to work. Children may qualify for SSI if family income is low[2][5][6].
Yes, if your SSDI payment is low and you meet SSI’s income and resource rules, you may get both (“concurrent benefits”). This is common if your work history is limited[2].
The maximum federal SSI payment in 2025 is $943/month for individuals. Some Michigan residents may get a small state supplement on top of this, depending on living arrangements[2][3].
SDA is state-funded cash help for adults with disabilities who have very low income and resources. You must be a Michigan resident and U.S. citizen or qualifying immigrant. You can’t get cash aid from another state[4][7].
Michigan may add a small supplement to SSI payments and offers SDA for those who qualify. Medicaid waivers (HCBS) can fund extra in-home and community supports—ask MDHHS for details[3][4][7].
Earnings over the SGA limit ($1,530/month in 2025 for SSDI) can affect eligibility. SSI has strict income limits. Always report income changes. Work incentives may help you keep some benefits while working—see our SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide[1][2][6].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Program rules and benefit amounts change often. Always verify details with official sources and consider consulting with a benefits planner or attorney.
Yes, through an ABLE account, which lets you save for disability expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. See our ABLE Accounts guide for details.
Appeals are possible. Many people are denied at first but win on appeal, especially with legal help. Contact legal aid or a disability attorney for assistance[3].
SSI recipients in Michigan get Medicaid automatically. After 24 months on SSDI, you qualify for Medicare. Some people may keep Medicaid with a waiver—see our Medicaid vs Medicare guide[2][6].
Report changes in income, living situation, or resources to Social Security and MDHHS right away. Delays can cause overpayments. Use our Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide for step-by-step help.
