Fragile X Syndrome Benefits in Montana

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a person must have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability. For Fragile X Syndrome, this means the condition must severely limit the ability to work or function independently. SSDI requires work credits, usually earned through employment. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs use the Social Security Blue Book to evaluate conditions, including rare genetic disorders like Fragile X Syndrome. Medical evidence is required to show how the condition affects daily life and ability to work. [^1]

• SSDI: Generally need 40 credits, 20 in the last 10 years before disability starts. [^1]
• SSI: No work credits needed, but strict income and asset limits apply. [^1]
• Children may qualify for SSI if the family meets income and asset limits. [^1]

Montana follows federal rules for SSI/SSDI eligibility, but also offers state-specific programs. The Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD) program allows people with disabilities to work and earn more while keeping Medicaid coverage. Eligibility is based on net-countable income and a sliding fee scale. MWD is designed for those who would lose Medicaid due to employment. Montana also provides developmental disability services, pre-employment transition services, and statewide independent living supports. These programs help individuals with Fragile X Syndrome access healthcare, employment, and community resources. [^2][^3]

• MWD: Must have a disability, work, and meet income requirements. [^2]
• Developmental Disability Services: For those with lifelong conditions affecting daily living. [^2][^3]
• Independent Living Services: Help with skills for daily living and employment. [^3]

• Gather medical records and proof of income.
• Contact Montana Disability Determination Services for SSDI/SSI.
• Apply online at SSA.gov or visit a local Social Security office.
• For Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities, contact your local Office of Public Assistance.
• Ask about developmental disability services and independent living supports.
• Report changes in income or health to avoid overpayments.

• Step 1: Collect all medical records, including diagnosis, treatment history, and how Fragile X Syndrome affects daily life.
• Step 2: Apply for SSDI/SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. [^1]
• Step 3: Montana Disability Determination Services will review your medical evidence and make a decision. [^1]
• Step 4: If approved, you may also qualify for Medicaid. Apply for Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD) through your local Office of Public Assistance. [^2]
• Step 5: Ask about developmental disability services and independent living supports from the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. [^3]
• Step 6: If you work, report changes in income or employment to Social Security and Medicaid to avoid overpayments. [^1][^2]
• Step 7: Consider opening an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. [^4]

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments for those who can’t work due to disability and have enough work credits. [^1]
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly payments for those with limited income and resources, including children. [^1]
• Medicaid: Health coverage for those with low income, including disability-specific services. [^1]
• Medicare: Health coverage for those on SSDI after 24 months. [^1]
• ABLE Accounts: Tax-advantaged savings accounts for disability-related expenses. [^4]

• Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD): Allows people with disabilities to work and earn more while keeping Medicaid coverage. Eligibility is based on net-countable income and a sliding fee scale. [^2]
• Developmental Disability Services: Provides support for those with lifelong conditions affecting daily living. [^3]
• Pre-Employment Transition Services: Helps youth with disabilities prepare for work. [^3]
• Statewide Independent Living Services: Offers skills training and support for daily living and employment. [^3]
• Long-Term Disability Insurance: Available to state employees, but not a public benefit program. [^4]

ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. Montana residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, employment training, and more. [^4]

SSI has strict income and asset limits. In 2025, the federal SSI limit is $943/month for an individual. Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities uses a sliding fee scale based on net-countable income. [^1][^2]

It’s important to report changes in income, employment, or health to Social Security and Medicaid. Failure to report can result in overpayments and penalties. [^1][^2]

• Montana Disability Determination Services
  Phone: 1-800-245-4358

  Website

  For SSDI/SSI eligibility questions.
• Montana Office of Public Assistance
  Phone: 1-888-706-5000

  Website

  For Medicaid eligibility and application.

• Can Fragile X Syndrome qualify for SSI/SSDI in Montana?

  Yes, if Fragile X Syndrome severely limits your ability to work or function independently, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. Medical evidence is required to show how the condition affects daily life. [^1]

• What is Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD) in Montana?

  MWD allows people with disabilities to work and earn more while keeping Medicaid coverage. Eligibility is based on net-countable income and a sliding fee scale. [^2]

• How do I apply for disability benefits in Montana?

  Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. For Medicaid, contact your local Office of Public Assistance. [^1][^2]

• What services are available for people with Fragile X Syndrome in Montana?

  Montana offers developmental disability services, pre-employment transition services, and independent living supports. These programs help with healthcare, employment, and daily living. [^3]

• Can I work and still get disability benefits in Montana?

  Yes, Montana’s Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program allows people with disabilities to work and earn more while keeping Medicaid coverage. [^2]

• What is an ABLE account and how can it help?

  ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. [^4]