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New Mexico • Sensory
If you are Deaf in New Mexico, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, state food and health programs, and special work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits for Deafness, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) rules. For SSDI, you need enough work credits and a medical condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months. For SSI, your income and resources must be low, and you must meet the SSA's definition of disability. Deafness is listed in the SSA's Blue Book under hearing disorders. If your hearing loss is severe enough, you may qualify automatically. If not, you may still qualify if your condition prevents you from doing any substantial work. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for non-blind individuals is $1,620 per month, and for statutorily blind individuals, it is $2,700 per month. If you earn more than this, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI[5].
In New Mexico, Deafness may qualify you for state disability programs, Medicaid waivers, and food assistance. The State of New Mexico Disability Policy provides financial aid for state and local employees who cannot work due to a sickness or injury, including Deafness, if not on workers' compensation. This plan is voluntary and requires 12 months of paid premiums before you can claim benefits. New Mexico also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, which can help pay for services like interpreters, assistive devices, and home care. If you lose federal SNAP benefits, New Mexico may provide state-funded food benefits to help you and your family. To qualify for state programs, you must meet income and disability requirements. Contact your local Health Care Authority office for more information[2][4][7].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In New Mexico, you can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed. ABLE accounts do not affect SSI or Medicaid eligibility as long as the balance is under $100,000. For more information, visit the ABLE National Resource Center or contact your local disability office[3].
In 2025, the SGA limit for SSDI and SSI is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for statutorily blind individuals. If you earn more than this, you may lose benefits. SSI has additional income and resource limits. For 2025, the SSI federal benefit rate is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. State supplements may increase these amounts. For more details, see the SSA website or contact your local SSA office[5].
If your income or work status changes, you must report it to the SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment or loss of benefits. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you receive an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan. For more information, see the SSA's guide on reporting changes and overpayments[5].
Contact a local disability attorney or advocate for free or low-cost help with your application. Many organizations offer support for people with Deafness in New Mexico.
Yes, if your Deafness meets SSA medical criteria and you have enough work credits. Deafness is listed in the SSA's Blue Book. If your hearing loss is severe, you may qualify automatically. If not, you may still qualify if your condition prevents you from working for at least 12 months[6].
Yes, if your Deafness meets SSA medical criteria and your income and resources are low. SSI is for people with limited income and resources. In 2025, the SSI federal benefit rate is $943 per month for an individual[5].
In 2025, the SGA limit for non-blind individuals is $1,620 per month, and for statutorily blind individuals, it is $2,700 per month. If you earn more than this, you may lose SSDI or SSI benefits[5].
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local SSA office. For state programs, visit YES.NM.GOV or call 1-800-283-4465. Gather medical records and work history before applying[2][5][6].
New Mexico offers the State Disability Policy for state and local employees, Medicaid waivers for services like interpreters, and state-funded food benefits if federal SNAP is suspended. Contact your local HCA office for more information[2][4][7].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. Work incentives help you keep benefits while working. Report any changes in income to avoid overpayments[5].
You can get help from a local disability attorney, advocate, or your local SSA or HCA office. Many organizations offer free or low-cost help with applications and appeals. Ask for help if you need it[1][2][4].
You need medical records that prove your hearing loss, such as audiograms and doctor's notes. The SSA will review these records to determine if your Deafness meets their criteria. Gather all relevant records before applying[6].
Yes, New Mexico offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including Deafness. These waivers can help pay for services like interpreters, assistive devices, and home care. Apply through the Health Care Authority[7].
If federal SNAP benefits are suspended, New Mexico provides state-funded food benefits to eligible individuals, including those with disabilities. These benefits are distributed on existing EBT cards. Apply at YES.NM.GOV or your local HCA office[2].
