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Nevada • Rare/Genetic
If you have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome in Nevada, you may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI, SSDI), state Medicaid waivers, ABLE accounts, and more. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, benefit amounts, and where to get help—tailored for people with this rare genetic condition.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI, your Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome must be medically documented and severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death[4]. SSDI requires a work history with enough Social Security credits, depending on your age[1][6]. SSI is based on financial need—income and assets are strictly limited[3]. Both programs set a Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit: in 2025, you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month from work (non-blind individuals) or $2,700 per month (blind individuals) and still receive benefits[8]. The Social Security Administration uses a 5-step process to decide if you are disabled; you must not be working at SGA level and must have a severe, long-lasting impairment[4].
Nevada does not offer a separate state disability program, but state agencies like the Rehabilitation Division’s Bureau of Disability Adjudication help residents apply for federal benefits and connect them with local services[5]. Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome may qualify you for Nevada Medicaid, especially if you already receive SSI. Medicaid waivers (Home and Community-Based Services, HCBS) may also be available, offering services not covered by regular Medicaid—contact the Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services for details[internal_links]. ABLE accounts are open to Nevadans with disabilities and allow tax-advantaged savings without affecting SSI eligibility[internal_links]. While the state does not have a unique benefit for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Nevada’s Disability Resource Center and local nonprofits can provide support with applications and daily living needs.
Start by gathering your medical records, work history, and financial documents. You can apply online for SSI or SSDI at the Social Security website, by phone, or at your local Social Security office[6]. In Nevada, you can also contact the Bureau of Disability Adjudication for help with your application: (775) 885-3700 or (800) 882-4430[5]. After you apply, the SSA will review your case, request more information if needed, and decide if you qualify. Nevada Medicaid applications are handled through Access Nevada—register for an account to apply online for Medicaid and related waivers[7].
Step 1: Gather Documentation
Step 2: Apply for Federal Benefits
Step 3: Apply for Nevada Medicaid and Waivers
Step 4: Report Changes and Check Status
Step 5: Explore Additional Resources
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Provides monthly payments to people who have worked and paid into Social Security, but can no longer work due to disability. In 2025, benefits range from $967 to $4,018 per month, based on your earnings history[3].
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Offers monthly payments to disabled, blind, or older adults with limited income and resources. The maximum federal SSI payment in 2025 is $967 per month, and you must meet strict income and asset limits[3].
Medicare: After receiving SSDI for 24 months, you become eligible for Medicare, which covers hospital stays, doctor visits, and prescriptions.
Medicaid: If you receive SSI in Nevada, you will likely qualify for state Medicaid automatically, which covers a broader range of services than Medicare.
Nevada does not have a state-funded disability payment program, but the state does help residents access federal benefits and offers additional supports:
Nevada Medicaid and HCBS Waivers: Medicaid covers doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and therapies for eligible low-income residents. Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers can provide extra help, such as personal care, home modifications, and respite care—contact the Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services to learn more[internal_links].
ABLE Accounts: Nevada residents can open an ABLE account to save up to $17,000 per year without affecting SSI eligibility[internal_links].
Bureau of Disability Adjudication: This Nevada agency helps residents apply for SSI and SSDI, answers questions, and troubleshoots application issues. Call (775) 885-3700 or (800) 882-4430 for assistance[5].
Statewide Independent Living Council and Local Nonprofits: These organizations can help with advocacy, independent living skills, and connecting to community resources—search for local centers near you.
ABLE accounts let Nevadans with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome save and invest money without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit). Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like housing, transportation, education, and healthcare[internal_links].
SSI has strict income and asset limits. In 2025, you can have up to $2,000 in countable resources (excluding home and car)[3]. Your monthly income must be below the SSI payment, and most unearned income will reduce your benefit dollar-for-dollar. For SSDI, there is no resource limit, but you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month (SGA, 2025) without risking your benefits[8]. Medicaid also has income limits, which vary depending on household size and program.
You must report changes in income, resources, living arrangements, or health to both the SSA and Nevada Medicaid. Failing to report can result in overpayments, penalties, or loss of benefits. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back[internal_links]. Set up a My Social Security account to report changes easily.
Because Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is a rare condition, it’s important to provide detailed, up-to-date medical records when applying for benefits. Work closely with your healthcare team to document your symptoms, limitations, and treatments.
For help with SSI/SSDI applications, call the Nevada Bureau of Disability Adjudication at (775) 885-3700 or (800) 882-4430. For Medicaid and waiver questions, contact the Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services through Access Nevada[5][7].
Yes, if your Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months, it may qualify you for SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid in Nevada[4].
For SSDI, you cannot earn more than $1,620/month from work in 2025 (SGA limit). SSI has a lower income limit—most other income reduces your benefit. Always report all income to avoid overpayments[8].
There are no income limits to open an ABLE account, but contributions are limited to $17,000/year (2025), and accounts cannot exceed $100,000 without affecting SSI eligibility[internal_links].
SSDI is based on your work history; SSI is for those with limited income/resources, regardless of work history. Both require a qualifying disability, but rules and benefit amounts are different[1][internal_links].
If you qualify for SSI in Nevada, you are usually automatically eligible for Medicaid. Both programs have strict income and asset limits[internal_links].
Yes, but your earnings must stay below the SGA limit ($1,620/month, 2025). SSI also allows some work incentives[8][internal_links].
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only. Always check official sources or contact a benefits counselor for advice about your specific situation. Rules may change; refer to agency websites and notices for the latest updates.
You can appeal online, by mail, or in person. Nevada Legal Services can help with the appeals process if you need assistance[4].
Yes, Nevada’s HCBS waivers can provide personal care, respite, and home modifications. Apply through Access Nevada and ask about available waivers[internal_links].
Federal benefits (SSI, SSDI) move with you. Medicaid rules may change—check the new state’s requirements. Always update your address with the SSA and Medicaid.
Contact the SSA immediately to avoid owing money later. You can request a repayment plan if needed[internal_links].
