Prader-Willi Syndrome Benefits in Montana

To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) criteria. Generally, you need a medical condition that prevents substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For SSDI, you need work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years). SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Prader-Willi Syndrome is listed in the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances, which means applications are often processed faster.

• SSA Compassionate Allowances
• SSA Disability Qualifications

If you have Prader-Willi Syndrome, you may qualify for expedited review. Medical evidence from your doctor is required to prove your condition.

Citations: [6], [7]

In Montana, people with Prader-Willi Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid, Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD), and other state programs. To qualify for Montana Medicaid, you must meet income and asset limits. The MWD program allows people with disabilities to work and earn more without losing Medicaid coverage, as long as you pay a cost-share based on your net-countable income. Montana also offers home and community-based services (HCBS) waivers for people with developmental disabilities, which can include Prader-Willi Syndrome.

• Montana Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities
• Montana HCBS Waivers

Eligibility for state programs is determined on an individual basis. Contact your local Office of Public Assistance for details.

Citations: [3], [2]

• Gather medical records and proof of income.
• Contact Montana Disability Determination Services for SSDI/SSI.
• Apply for Medicaid through your local Office of Public Assistance.
• Ask about the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program if you are employed.
• Explore ABLE accounts for savings.

Citations: [2], [3], [6]

• Step 1: Get a diagnosis and medical records from your doctor. Make sure your records clearly show your Prader-Willi Syndrome diagnosis and how it affects your daily life.
• Step 2: Contact Montana Disability Determination Services (DDS) to start your SSDI or SSI application. You can apply online at SSA.gov or visit a local Social Security office.
• Step 3: Apply for Montana Medicaid. If you are working, ask about the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD) program. You can apply at your local Office of Public Assistance.
• Step 4: If you need home and community-based services, ask about HCBS waivers. These can help with personal care, therapy, and other supports.
• Step 5: Consider opening an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without losing benefits.
• Step 6: Keep all records and report any changes in income or health to avoid overpayments.

Citations: [2], [3], [6], [7]

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly payments for those with limited income and resources.
• Medicaid: Health coverage for people with disabilities, including children and adults.
• Medicare: Health coverage for those who have received SSDI for 24 months.
• ABLE Accounts: Tax-advantaged savings accounts for disability-related expenses.

Citations: [6], [7]

• Montana Medicaid: Covers health care, personal assistance, and developmental disability services.
• Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD): Allows people with disabilities to work and earn more without losing Medicaid coverage.
• Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers: Provides supports for people with developmental disabilities, including Prader-Willi Syndrome.
• Montana Vocational Rehabilitation: Helps with job training, career counseling, and workplace accommodations.
• Independent Living Services: Supports for daily living, including the Self-Direct Program for hiring care assistants.

Citations: [1], [3], [2]

ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. In Montana, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. The account can be used for disability-related expenses like education, housing, transportation, and personal support.

• Montana ABLE Accounts

Citations: [1]

For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. For Medicaid in Montana, income limits vary based on household size and program. The Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program uses a sliding fee scale based on net-countable income.

• SSI Income Limits
• Montana Medicaid Income Limits

Citations: [6], [3]

If your income or health changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment or loss of benefits. Always report changes to Social Security and Medicaid promptly.

• Reporting Changes to Social Security
• Reporting Changes to Medicaid

Citations: [6], [3]

• Montana Disability Determination Services
  Phone: 406-444-4211

  Website

  For SSDI/SSI eligibility questions.
• Montana Office of Public Assistance
  Phone: 406-444-2244

  Website

  For Medicaid and MWD applications.
• Disability Rights Montana
  Phone: 800-245-2131

  TTY: 800-253-7040

  Email: [email protected]

  Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

  Website

  Legal advocacy and support.

• What federal benefits are available for Prader-Willi Syndrome in Montana?

  People with Prader-Willi Syndrome in Montana can apply for SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Medicare. SSI is for those with limited income, SSDI is for those with a work history, and Medicaid provides health coverage. Medicare is available after 24 months of SSDI.

• How do I apply for Medicaid in Montana with Prader-Willi Syndrome?

  To apply for Medicaid in Montana, contact your local Office of Public Assistance. You will need to provide proof of income, assets, and medical records. If you are working, ask about the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program.

• What is the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program in Montana?

  The Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program allows people with disabilities to work and earn more without losing Medicaid coverage. You pay a cost-share based on your net-countable income. This program helps people with Prader-Willi Syndrome stay employed and keep their health coverage.

• Are there special programs for children with Prader-Willi Syndrome in Montana?

  Yes, Montana offers early intervention, therapeutic support, and educational programs for children with developmental disabilities, including Prader-Willi Syndrome. Contact the Developmental Educational Assistance Program (DEAP) for more information.

• How do I get help with employment if I have Prader-Willi Syndrome?

  Montana Vocational Rehabilitation can help with job training, career counseling, and workplace accommodations. They also offer pre-employment transition services for youth with disabilities.