Down Syndrome Benefits in Nevada: 2025 Guide

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. You need enough work credits and a disability expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Down Syndrome is a qualifying condition if it meets SSA criteria.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For people with limited income and resources, including children and adults with Down Syndrome. No work history is required. The SSA recognizes Down Syndrome as a condition that may qualify for SSI, especially for children.
• Presumptive Disability: If your Down Syndrome is severe and meets SSA criteria, you may qualify for immediate payments while your full application is processed.

Sources: SSA.gov, SSA SSI Publication

• Nevada does not have a state-run disability program for adults with Down Syndrome.
• Nevada provides a state supplement to SSI payments for elderly or blind recipients, but not for those with disabilities unless they are part of an eligible couple with a partner who is aged or blind, or if they live in an institution where medical assistance pays for more than 50% of their care.
• SSI recipients in Nevada are eligible for Medicaid, which covers healthcare costs.
• Nevada offers additional services through county health and human services offices, including home-delivered meals, rehabilitation, and employment resources.

Sources: SSA SSI Publication, Nevada DWSS

• Gather medical records and proof of income.
• Visit the Social Security Administration website or local office to apply for SSI or SSDI.
• If you have Down Syndrome, mention it on your application as a qualifying condition.
• Apply for Medicaid through your local county health and human services office.
• Check for additional local resources and services.

Sources: SSA.gov, Nevada DWSS

• Step 1: Collect all necessary documents, including medical records, proof of income, and identification.
• Step 2: Visit the SSA website or your local Social Security office to start your SSI or SSDI application. For Down Syndrome, ensure your medical records clearly document the diagnosis and its impact.
• Step 3: If you are applying for SSI, you will also need to provide information about your income and resources.
• Step 4: Apply for Medicaid through your local county health and human services office. SSI recipients are usually automatically eligible for Medicaid.
• Step 5: Check for additional local resources, such as SNAP, home-delivered meals, and employment support, through your county office.
• Step 6: Follow up on your application and respond to any requests for additional information.

Sources: SSA.gov, Nevada DWSS

• 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, including children and adults with Down Syndrome.
• Medicaid: Healthcare coverage for SSI recipients.
• SNAP: Food assistance for eligible individuals and families.
• Presumptive Disability: Immediate payments for severe cases while the full application is processed.

Sources: SSA.gov, SSA SSI Publication

• Nevada does not have a state disability program for adults with Down Syndrome.
• Nevada provides a state supplement to SSI payments for elderly or blind recipients, but not for those with disabilities unless they are part of an eligible couple with a partner who is aged or blind, or if they live in an institution where medical assistance pays for more than 50% of their care.
• SSI recipients in Nevada are eligible for Medicaid, which covers healthcare costs.
• Nevada offers additional services through county health and human services offices, including home-delivered meals, rehabilitation, and employment resources.

Sources: SSA SSI Publication, Nevada DWSS

ABLE accounts allow individuals with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI and other benefits. Nevada residents with Down Syndrome can open an ABLE account to save for qualified disability expenses. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one in Nevada.

SSI has strict income and resource limits. For 2025, the resource limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. Countable income includes wages, Social Security benefits, and other sources. Some income is not counted, such as the first $20 of most income and the first $65 of earnings plus half of the remainder. Use the SSI Income Estimator to see how your income affects your benefits.

It is important to report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA to avoid overpayments. If you receive an overpayment, you may be required to repay it. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes to protect your benefits.

• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Monday - Friday

  Website

  For questions about SSI/SSDI applications and benefits.
• Nevada Department of Health and Human Services
  Phone: 1-866-968-7842

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

  Website

  For questions about Medicaid, SNAP, and other state benefits.

• Does Down Syndrome qualify for disability benefits in Nevada?

  Yes, Down Syndrome is recognized by the Social Security Administration as a qualifying condition for both SSI and SSDI benefits in Nevada. Medical documentation is required to support the application.

• How do I apply for disability benefits for Down Syndrome in Nevada?

  You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. Be sure to include all medical records related to Down Syndrome.

• What benefits are available for children with Down Syndrome in Nevada?

  Children with Down Syndrome may qualify for SSI, Medicaid, SNAP, and other support services. Parents should apply for SSI and check with local agencies for additional resources.

• Does Nevada have a state disability program for adults with Down Syndrome?

  No, Nevada does not have a state disability program for adults with Down Syndrome. Residents rely on federal programs like SSI and SSDI for support.

• Can I get Medicaid if I have Down Syndrome in Nevada?

  Yes, SSI recipients in Nevada are eligible for Medicaid, which provides healthcare coverage. You can apply for Medicaid through your local county health and human services office.

• What is presumptive disability, and can I get it for Down Syndrome in Nevada?

  Presumptive disability allows for immediate payments if your condition is severe and likely to qualify for SSI. Down Syndrome may qualify if it is severe and meets SSA criteria.