People with Down Syndrome in Missouri can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and work incentives. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key changes for 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have a disability that meets Social Security's definition. For Down Syndrome, this usually means a diagnosis of Trisomy 21, Translocation, or Mosaic Down Syndrome. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a list of impairments called the Blue Book. Down Syndrome is listed under Section 10.06, so most people with Down Syndrome automatically qualify if they have a confirmed diagnosis.
For SSDI, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above this limit may affect your eligibility for SSDI or SSI.
You must also meet citizenship or residency requirements and provide medical evidence of your disability[7].
In Missouri, people with Down Syndrome can qualify for Medicaid (MO HealthNet) if their income is below certain limits. For 2025, the annual income limit for MO HealthNet for the Aged and Disabled is $13,303 for a single person and $17,978 for a couple[4]. Missouri also offers the Ticket to Work Health Assurance (TWHA) program, which provides Medicaid coverage for employed people with disabilities aged 16-64, even if their income is above the SGA limit. TWHA has different income rules and may require a premium if income is above 100% of the Federal Poverty Level.
Missouri does not have a separate state disability program, so most people rely on federal SSDI and SSI, plus Medicaid for health care. The state also offers the MO ABLE program, which allows people with disabilities to save money without losing benefits[8].
The MO ABLE program allows people with disabilities to save money in a tax-advantaged account without losing federal benefits like SSI or Medicaid. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, transportation, and health care[8].
| Program | Single | Couple | |---|---|---| | MO HealthNet (Aged/Disabled) | $13,303 | $17,978 | | MO HealthNet (Blind) | $15,650 | $21,150 | | SSI (2025) | $943/month | $1,415/month | | SSDI (2025 SGA) | $1,620/month | $1,620/month |
Source: Missouri Department of Social Services, Social Security Administration[4][7]
It is important to report any changes in income, work, or living situation to Social Security and MO HealthNet. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay. Report changes online, by phone, or in person[6].
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals. The COLA is 2.5%, increasing monthly payments. TWHA allows higher income limits for employed people with disabilities.
The main benefits are Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid (MO HealthNet), and the Ticket to Work Health Assurance (TWHA) program. These provide cash, health care, and employment support.
The maximum monthly SSDI payment in Missouri is $4,555, and the maximum monthly SSI payment is $943 for an individual. Payments may be lower based on work history or other income[9].
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above this limit may affect your eligibility for SSDI or SSI[7].
Yes, you can work and still get disability benefits. The Ticket to Work Health Assurance (TWHA) program allows employed people with disabilities to keep Medicaid coverage, even if their income is above the SGA limit[3].
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office. Apply for MO HealthNet through the Missouri Department of Social Services[4][7].
The MO ABLE program allows people with disabilities to save money in a tax-advantaged account without losing federal benefits like SSI or Medicaid. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses[8].
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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TWHA is a Medicaid program for employed people with disabilities aged 16-64. It provides health coverage without a spend down if income does not exceed 250% of the Federal Poverty Level[3].
Report changes in income, work, or living situation to Social Security and MO HealthNet online, by phone, or in person. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay[6].
The 2025 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for disability benefits is 2.5%. This means your monthly payment will increase by 2.5% to keep up with inflation[2].
Yes, you can get both SSDI and SSI if you meet the eligibility requirements for both programs. SSDI is based on work history, and SSI is based on limited income and resources[6].
