New Hampshire does not have a state disability program for dyslexia, so residents must rely on federal programs like SSI and SSDI for financial support and Medicaid for health coverage. Eligibility is based on federal guidelines, income and asset limits, and severity of disability. This guide explains how to apply, which programs are available, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal cash benefits for dyslexia, you must meet criteria for total disability. Under federal rules, adults must have a severe and long-term disability that prevents any ‘substantial gainful activity’ (work for pay) and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death[3]. Children (under 18) may qualify for SSI with significant, documented limitations affecting daily activities. Dyslexia alone rarely meets these standards unless it causes severe, work-preventing impairments. Each case is reviewed individually. SSDI requires a work history with enough Social Security credits, while SSI is based on financial need regardless of work history (see SSI vs SSDI for details)[3]. There are no federal benefits for short-term or partial disabilities[3].
New Hampshire does not have a state disability program—only five states do, and NH is not one of them[2]. For health coverage, all Medicaid eligibility is based on federal law, but with state-set income and asset limits. For regular Medicaid (not long-term care), the income limit is $981/month for one person and $1,451/month for a couple, with an asset limit of $1,500 (effective 2025)[1]. For nursing home or home and community-based Medicaid waivers, the income limits are much higher—$2,901/month for an individual, $5,802/month for a couple—with a $2,500 asset limit, but higher assets may be allowed with certain disregards[1]. Eligibility for these programs often requires documented needs for assistance with daily living. For people with disabilities, including learning disabilities, the main state-specific path is Medicaid, but qualifying often requires additional, severe medical or functional limitations beyond a learning disability alone[1].
Most benefits for dyslexia in New Hampshire come from federal programs. Start by applying for SSI or SSDI online at the Social Security Administration (SSA) website if you have severe, long-term disability that prevents work. For Medicaid, apply through New Hampshire’s Department of Health and Human Services. Be ready to provide detailed medical records and proof of income. If denied, you can appeal—this is very common. Preparation and persistence are key.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides monthly payments to adults and children with very low income and assets who have a documented, severe disability. The average SSI payment in New Hampshire is $586.25/month (2025)[2]. SSI also provides automatic Medicaid eligibility in most cases. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for adults who have worked and paid into Social Security but can no longer work due to a disability. The average SSDI payment in New Hampshire is $1,400.88/month (2025)[2]. These payments continue as long as the disability lasts or until you reach retirement age, when it converts to retirement benefits. Medicaid covers health services, which may include screenings, therapies, and supports related to disabilities. Each state administers Medicaid under federal rules. To access, apply through NH DHHS. If you qualify for SSI, you usually qualify for Medicaid as well. ABLE Accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities (onset before age 26). They allow saving for disability expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility (see ABLE Accounts for details).
New Hampshire does not have a state disability program or cash benefit for dyslexia[2]. The main state-administered benefit is Medicaid, which covers health services for eligible residents with disabilities. Medicaid Waivers (Home and Community Based Services, or HCBS) may fund additional supports for people with disabilities, but these are typically for those with significant functional limitations—not typically dyslexia alone. Support services, such as those for children with learning disabilities, are mostly provided through the public school system (e.g., through IEPs and Section 504 plans), not through cash benefits or Medicaid waivers. The NH Disability and Health Program, run by the University of New Hampshire, offers education and training for healthcare providers to improve care for people with disabilities, but it does not provide direct aid to individuals[4]. For financial aid, New Hampshire residents with dyslexia must rely on federal programs (SSI, SSDI, Medicaid) and look to schools and nonprofits for education support.
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities (including dyslexia if onset before age 26) to save for qualified expenses—like education, housing, transportation, and health—without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Earnings grow tax-free, and withdrawals for disability expenses are also tax-free. There is no state ABLE plan in New Hampshire, but residents can join programs in other states. See ABLE Accounts for more information.
For SSI, there are strict income and asset limits. In 2025, you generally must have less than $2,000 in countable assets ($3,000 for couples) and very low income. Medicaid limits in NH are $981/month for one person, $1,451/month for couples, and $1,500 in assets for regular Medicaid; higher for nursing home or HCBS waivers ($2,901/month income, $2,500 assets, but more may be allowed with certain rules)[1]. Actual payment amounts depend on your income, living situation, and household size. Use the SSI Income Estimator for a more personalized estimate.
You must report changes in income, assets, living situation, or disability status to SSA and DHHS as soon as they happen. Failing to do so can result in overpayments, which you must repay. If you get too much money, contact SSA or DHHS right away. Keeping good records will help avoid problems. For more, see Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes.
If you are a parent of a child with dyslexia, contact your child’s school for an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan. These provide free special education services and supports. Cash benefits are much harder to get unless your child has additional, severe disabilities.
Most SSI and SSDI applications for learning disabilities like dyslexia are denied at first. Don’t give up—many people win on appeal, sometimes with help from a lawyer or advocate.
The application process can take months, sometimes years. Start early, keep good records, and be ready for possible appeals. Delays do not mean you will not qualify.
Dyslexia is only considered a disability if it is severe enough to prevent any substantial work for adults, or causes significant functional limitations in children. Most applicants with dyslexia only do not qualify, unless there are additional severe impairments. Each case is reviewed individually by SSA[3].
No. New Hampshire does not have a state disability program. Only federal programs (SSI, SSDI, Medicaid) can help people with dyslexia, and only if they meet strict eligibility rules[2].
Apply for SSI online at the SSA website. For Medicaid, apply through the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services. Having all your medical, school, and income records ready will speed up the process.
Initial decisions take about 6 months, but most people are denied at first and must appeal, which can take up to two years. Be persistent and appeal if denied[2].
You may be able to work a little and still get SSI or Medicaid, but your income must stay below program limits. There are special work incentives—see SSI & SSDI Work Incentives.
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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Medicaid is for people with low income and assets, and may cover more services than Medicare. Medicare is mainly for people over 65 or those who have received SSDI for two years. See Medicaid vs Medicare for details.
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. NH does not have its own ABLE plan, but residents can join another state’s plan.
Request reconsideration within 60 days. If denied again, request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. Most people are approved during the appeals process[2].
Yes. Report any changes in income, assets, living situation, or health to SSA or DHHS immediately. Not reporting can cause overpayments, which you must pay back. See Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes.
Contact your local Social Security office, NH Department of Health and Human Services, or a local legal aid organization. They can help you understand the process and what you need to do.
