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New Mexico • Neurodegenerative
People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in New Mexico can qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, plus state programs for food, health care, and support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what help is available.
To get federal disability benefits for ALS in New Mexico, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) rules. ALS is considered a Compassionate Allowances condition, meaning it is fast-tracked for approval. You must have a confirmed diagnosis of ALS and be unable to do substantial work. For SSDI, you need enough work credits from past jobs. For SSI, your income and assets must be low. Both programs require your condition to last at least one year or result in death. The SSA checks your medical records and work history to decide if you qualify. [^1][^5]
In New Mexico, people with ALS may also qualify for state programs. Medicaid covers health care for those with low income or who lose SSI benefits. The state offers food benefits through SNAP, and if federal SNAP is cut, New Mexico may step in with state funds to help. Medicaid eligibility can continue for up to two months after losing SSI, giving time to apply for other coverage. Children with ALS may qualify for Children’s Medical Services. New Mexico also has rules for disabled widows and surviving divorced spouses. [^3][^2][^6]
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. New Mexico residents can open an ABLE account to pay for disability-related expenses. The account grows tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed. [^7]
If your income or health changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to debt or loss of benefits. Report changes to SSA and the New Mexico Human Services Department as soon as possible. [^7]
ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition, so Social Security fast-tracks approval. Get a medical diagnosis and apply as soon as possible.
If federal SNAP is cut, New Mexico may offer state-funded food benefits. Check with the state for updates.
Yes, ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition, so Social Security fast-tracks approval. You still need a medical diagnosis and to meet work or income rules for SSDI or SSI. [^5]
SSDI payments depend on your work history. SSI payments are based on income and assets. In 2025, the federal SSI payment is $943/month for an individual, but New Mexico may add a state supplement. [^5][^4]
Yes, people with ALS can qualify for Medicaid in New Mexico, even if they lose SSI. Medicaid covers health care and may continue for up to two months after losing SSI. [^3]
If federal SNAP is cut, New Mexico may offer state-funded food benefits to help low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities. Check with the state for updates. [^2]
Yes, you must report changes to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to debt or loss of benefits. Report changes to SSA and the New Mexico Human Services Department as soon as possible. [^7]
Yes, children with ALS may qualify for Children’s Medical Services, which provides coordinated, family-centered care for children with chronic illness or disability. [^3]
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
The SGA limit is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals in 2025. Earning more than this may affect your benefits. [^4]
Yes, New Mexico residents with ALS can open an ABLE account to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. [^7]
Apply for SSDI or SSI online, by phone, or in person. Apply for Medicaid and SNAP through the New Mexico Human Services Department. [^5][^3]
New Mexico offers Medicaid, SNAP, state SNAP supplements, Children’s Medical Services, and Medicaid waivers for people with ALS. [^3][^2][^6]
