Muscular Dystrophy Benefits in New Hampshire

To qualify for federal disability benefits due to Muscular Dystrophy, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) strict definition of total disability. Your condition must prevent you from working at a substantial gainful activity (SGA) level, last (or be expected to last) at least 12 months, or result in death. No benefits are available for partial or short-term disability[3]. SSA considers Muscular Dystrophy a qualifying condition if it severely limits your ability to walk, lift, or perform other basic work activities. The SGA level in 2025 is $1,550/month for non-blind applicants. You also need enough work credits for SSDI, while SSI has income and asset limits—most initial applications are denied, so be prepared to appeal[2][3].

New Hampshire does not have a separate state disability program for Muscular Dystrophy or other physical disabilities[2]. Residents must rely on federal SSI and SSDI programs, though income and asset rules still apply. For healthcare, New Hampshire’s Medicaid program (Granite Advantage) may provide coverage for low-income adults with disabilities, but you must meet income and categorical eligibility criteria[1]. The state previously had work requirements under its Medicaid waiver, but these are no longer enforced and the program is under federal review as of 2021. State-specific benefit expansions or waivers for Muscular Dystrophy are limited—focus on federal programs and check for any local Medicaid home and community-based services (HCBS) waivers through Granite Advantage[1]. For Veterans with Muscular Dystrophy, Easterseals NH offers programs and services, including those related to mobility and independent living[4].

Start your New Hampshire Muscular Dystrophy benefits journey by applying for SSI or SSDI online through the SSA, by phone (1-800-772-1213), or in person at your local Social Security office. Gather medical records, work history, and proof of income. Most applicants are denied at first; if that happens, request reconsideration and, if needed, a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge—the process can take up to two years[2]. If eligible, apply for Medicaid (Granite Advantage) through the NH Department of Health and Human Services for additional healthcare coverage[1].

Step 1: Get Ready

• Collect detailed medical records related to your Muscular Dystrophy diagnosis, treatments, and how the condition affects your daily activities.
• Gather proof of income, assets, and work history (for SSDI).

Step 2: Apply for SSI or SSDI

• Apply online at ssa.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), or in person at a local office.
• Complete all forms truthfully and consistently[2][3].
• Submit your application with all supporting documents—missing information is a common reason for denial.

Step 3: Manage Delays and Appeals

• Expect a decision in about 6 months for SSI/SSDI—denials are common[2].
• If denied, request reconsideration within 60 days.
• If denied again, request a hearing—this step can take around two years.

Step 4: Explore Medicaid Options

• Apply for New Hampshire Medicaid (Granite Advantage) via the NH DHHS if you meet income and eligibility criteria[1].
• Medicaid may cover additional services, including home care and mobility aids.

Step 5: Connect with Local Support

• Contact Easterseals NH for programs and services for people with mobility disabilities, including Veterans[4].
• Consider setting up an ABLE account for savings without affecting SSI eligibility (see our ABLE Accounts guide).

Step 6: Stay Organized

• Keep copies of all applications, letters, and medical evidence.
• Report any changes in your medical condition, income, or living situation promptly to avoid overpayments (see Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide).

Federal disability benefits are the primary source of support for Muscular Dystrophy in New Hampshire.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI):

• For people with a work history and enough Social Security credits.
• Average monthly payment in NH is about $1,401 (varies by earnings record)[2].

Supplemental Security Income (SSI):

• For low-income individuals with limited assets.
• Average monthly payment in NH is about $586 (varies by living situation and income)[2].

Definition of Disability:

• SSA defines disability strictly—your Muscular Dystrophy must prevent substantial work and be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death[3].

Medicare and Medicaid:

• After 24 months on SSDI, you qualify for Medicare.
• SSI recipients often qualify for Medicaid, which may cover additional healthcare needs.

Work Incentives:

• Both SSI and SSDI have work incentives; see SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide.

Survivor Benefits:

• Surviving spouses with disabilities may qualify for benefits if they meet SSA’s definition of disability[3].

New Hampshire does not operate a separate state disability program for Muscular Dystrophy or other physical disabilities. All disability cash benefits come from federal SSI and SSDI programs[2].

Medicaid Expansion (Granite Advantage):

• Provides health coverage for low-income adults, including those with disabilities.
• The state’s Medicaid waiver allows some flexibility in benefits and eligibility, but work requirements are no longer enforced[1].
• Covered benefits may include doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and some home and community-based services (HCBS) for eligible individuals[1].

Other State Supports:

• Easterseals NH: Offers programs and services for people with varied abilities, including mobility support for adults and Veterans[4].
• An affordable senior living community (age 62+) in Rochester, NH, with access to Easterseals’ supportive services[4].

An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without affecting SSI eligibility. These accounts can be used for qualified disability expenses, including housing, transportation, and healthcare. See our ABLE Accounts guide for details on how to open an ABLE account and the latest rules in New Hampshire.

SSI has strict income and asset limits ($2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples in 2025—subject to change). Some income is excluded, such as the first $20/month of unearned income and the first $65/month of earned income. Use our SSI Income Estimator for a personalized estimate. SSDI has no asset limit, but you must have enough work credits. Medicaid in NH also has income limits, which vary by program and household size[1][2].

If your income, assets, or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security and Medicaid to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in benefit reductions or having to pay money back. See our Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide for step-by-step help and how to appeal if you disagree with a decision.

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

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 am – 7:00 pm

  Website

  Apply for SSI/SSDI and Medicare. Arrange appointments for survivors or in-person questions.
• Easterseals NH
  Phone: 1-800-870-8727

  Email: [email protected]

  Website

  Programs for Veterans, adults, and families with Muscular Dystrophy. Contact for local services and mobility support[4].
• NH Department of Health and Human Services
  Phone: 603-271-4321

  Website

  Medicaid (Granite Advantage) and other state health programs.

• What is the average SSDI payment in New Hampshire for Muscular Dystrophy?

  The average SSDI payment in New Hampshire is about $1,400.88 per month, but the exact amount depends on your work history and earnings[2].

• Is there a state disability program in New Hampshire for Muscular Dystrophy?

  No, New Hampshire does not have a state disability program for Muscular Dystrophy or other physical disabilities. All disability cash benefits come from federal SSI and SSDI programs[2].

• How do I apply for SSI or SSDI if I have Muscular Dystrophy?

  Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office. Be prepared to appeal if denied—most initial applications are rejected, and appeals can take up to two years[2].

• Does Medicaid in New Hampshire cover extra services for Muscular Dystrophy?

  Medicaid (Granite Advantage) may cover additional services for those who qualify, but the state does not have a dedicated waiver for Muscular Dystrophy. Check with the NH Department of Health and Human Services for the latest covered services[1].

• Can I work and still get SSDI or SSI in New Hampshire?

  Yes, both SSDI and SSI have work incentives and allow some earnings without losing benefits. Rules are complex—see our SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide and always report income changes.

• What if my SSI or SSDI application is denied?

  Most initial applications are denied. You can request reconsideration, and if denied again, appeal to an Administrative Law Judge. The process can be lengthy, but many people are approved at the hearing stage[2].