People with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in New Mexico may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid waivers and food assistance. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To get federal disability benefits for ADHD, you must show your condition is severe enough to stop you from doing substantial work for at least a year. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a five-step process to decide if you qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must have a medical diagnosis, and your ADHD must cause major problems in daily life and work. For SSDI, you need enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes. For SSI, your income and assets must be low. Both programs require you to be unable to do any substantial gainful activity (SGA). In 2025, the SGA limit is about $1,470 per month for most people with disabilities[5].
If you are approved, you may get monthly payments and access to Medicaid or Medicare. The SSA reviews your case regularly to make sure you still qualify[6].
In New Mexico, people with ADHD may qualify for Medicaid through the Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver if their condition is considered an intellectual or developmental disability. The DD Waiver helps people with ADHD get services that let them live in the community instead of an institution. You must meet both federal and state criteria, including a diagnosis and functional limitations. New Mexico also offers food assistance through SNAP, and if federal SNAP is cut, the state may step in with its own funds to help[2].
Children with ADHD may qualify for Children’s Medical Services, which provides health care and support for kids with chronic conditions. Adults with ADHD who lose SSI may get up to two months of extended Medicaid to help them apply for other programs[3].
Always check with the New Mexico Health Care Authority or a local disability attorney for the latest rules and help with your application[1].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In New Mexico, you can open an ABLE account to pay for education, housing, health care, and other needs. The account grows tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed. Check with the New Mexico ABLE program for details and how to apply[7].
You must report changes in your income, work, or health to Social Security and the state. If you don’t, you may get too much money and have to pay it back. Report changes as soon as possible to avoid problems. Use the SSA’s online portal or call your local office to report changes[3].
Contact a New Mexico disability attorney or advocate for help with your application. They can guide you through the process and help you appeal if needed.
Yes, ADHD can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it severely limits your ability to work and do daily activities. You must have medical proof and meet federal and state rules[6].
The DD Waiver helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including some with ADHD, get services to live in the community. You must meet eligibility rules and may need to join a waiting list[4].
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. You’ll need medical records and proof of income. A disability attorney can help[1].
Yes, New Mexico offers a State SNAP Supplement for elderly or disabled households. If federal SNAP is cut, the state may use its own funds to help eligible families[2].
Yes, children with ADHD may qualify for Children’s Medical Services, which provides health care and support for kids with chronic conditions[3].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for education, housing, health care, and more[7].
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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You must report income changes to Social Security and the state. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits[3].
Yes, but you must not earn more than the SGA limit (about $1,470 per month in 2025). Work incentives can help you keep benefits while you try to work[5].
Approval times vary. It can take several months to a year. You can appeal if denied. A disability attorney can help speed up the process[1].
If you lose SSI, you may get up to two months of extended Medicaid to help you apply for other programs[3].
