Montana offers a range of benefits for people with intellectual disabilities, including federal programs like SSI/SSDI and Medicaid, plus state-specific supports such as Medicaid waivers, vocational rehabilitation, and legal advocacy. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) criteria. For SSI, you need limited income and resources, and your disability must be severe enough to prevent substantial work. For SSDI, you need a qualifying work history and credits. Intellectual disability is recognized as a qualifying condition if it meets SSA’s definition and severity requirements. Medical evidence is required for all applications.
Citations: SSA Disability Qualifications (accessed 2025-11-06)
In Montana, people with intellectual disabilities may qualify for additional state programs. Montana Medicaid covers many disability-related services, including personal care and developmental disability supports. The Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD) program lets people with disabilities work and keep Medicaid coverage by paying a sliding-scale fee based on income. Montana also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can provide extra support for people with intellectual disabilities.
Other state resources include vocational rehabilitation for job training, legal advocacy through Disability Rights Montana, and peer support groups. Eligibility for state programs is often based on income, disability severity, and residency.
Citations: Montana Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (accessed 2025-11-06), Montana Medicaid Waivers (accessed 2025-11-06)
Citations: Montana DDS, Montana Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities, Montana Medicaid Waivers (all accessed 2025-11-06)
Citations: SSA Disability Benefits, Medicaid.gov (accessed 2025-11-06)
Citations: Montana Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities, Montana Medicaid Waivers, Montana Vocational Rehabilitation, Disability Rights Montana, , , (all accessed 2025-11-06)
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Montana residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like education, housing, and transportation. Contributions are limited each year, and there are income and asset limits for SSI eligibility.
Learn more about ABLE accounts
Federal SSI has strict income and asset limits. In 2025, the SSI limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. Montana Medicaid and MWD have their own income limits, which are based on the federal poverty level and can change each year. Check with your local Office of Public Assistance for current limits.
If your income or health changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you get more benefits than you qualify for. Report changes to Social Security and Montana Medicaid as soon as possible. Learn how to avoid overpayments and report changes to keep your benefits.
Contact Disability Rights Montana or your local Office of Public Assistance for help with applications and appeals.
SSI is for people with disabilities who have limited income and resources. SSDI is for people with disabilities who have a qualifying work history. Both programs provide monthly payments, but eligibility rules are different. SSI is based on financial need, while SSDI is based on work credits.
You can apply for Montana Medicaid at your local Office of Public Assistance. Bring proof of income, disability, and residency. If you work, you may qualify for the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program, which lets you keep Medicaid by paying a sliding-scale fee.
Medicaid waivers in Montana provide extra services for people with intellectual disabilities who want to live in the community. These services can include personal care, therapy, and respite care. You apply through the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.
Yes, Montana has a Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program that lets people with disabilities work and keep Medicaid coverage. There are also SSI and SSDI work incentives that let you earn income without losing all your benefits.
Disability Rights Montana and the Montana Legal Services Association offer legal advocacy and civil legal help for people with intellectual disabilities. They can help with benefits, discrimination, and other issues.
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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Yes, there are grants available for people with disabilities in Montana. These can be used for equipment, home modifications, and other disability-related services. Check with local nonprofits and state agencies for current opportunities.
Montana Vocational Rehabilitation offers job training, career counseling, and workplace accommodations for people with disabilities. Contact your local office to learn more and apply for services.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Montana residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses.
If your benefits are denied, you can appeal the decision. Contact Montana Disability Determination Services or Disability Rights Montana for help with the appeals process. You may need to provide more medical evidence or attend a hearing.
Local nonprofits and community groups offer peer support for people with intellectual disabilities. Check with Disability Rights Montana, Special Olympics Montana, and local independent living centers for meetings and events.
