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New Mexico • Neurological/Developmental
People with Down Syndrome in New Mexico may qualify for federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and food assistance. Eligibility depends on medical, financial, and work history factors. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least one year or is expected to result in death. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need enough work credits from past employment. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your income and resources must be below set limits. Both programs require proof of disability from a doctor. Children with Down Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their family meets income and resource rules. Adults with Down Syndrome may qualify for SSDI if they have a work history, or SSI if they have limited income and resources. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a list of impairments, and Down Syndrome is included as a qualifying condition.
SSA Disability Qualifications (accessed 2025-11-06)
In New Mexico, people with Down Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid, SNAP (food benefits), and state disability programs. Medicaid eligibility for children and adults with Down Syndrome is often based on SSI eligibility or family income. New Mexico also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS) for people with developmental disabilities. Families may receive state-funded food benefits if federal SNAP is unavailable. The State Disability Policy provides short-term income support for state employees who become disabled, but this is not available to dependents. Children with Down Syndrome may also qualify for Children’s Medical Services, which provides coordinated health care and support.
New Mexico Health Care Authority (accessed 2025-11-06), Children’s Medical Services (accessed 2025-11-06)
Start with the SSA and New Mexico Human Services Department for federal and state benefits.
SSA Apply for Benefits (accessed 2025-11-06), New Mexico Human Services Department (accessed 2025-11-06)
SSA Benefits (accessed 2025-11-06)
New Mexico Health Care Authority (accessed 2025-11-06), Children’s Medical Services (accessed 2025-11-06)
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In New Mexico, you can open an ABLE account if you became disabled before age 26. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and health care. Contributions are limited each year, and there are state tax benefits for New Mexico residents.
New Mexico ABLE Program (accessed 2025-11-06)
SSA SSI Limits (accessed 2025-11-06)
If your income, resources, or health changes, you must report it to Social Security and other agencies. Failing to report can result in overpayments and penalties. Report changes as soon as possible to avoid problems. Keep records of all reports and correspondence.
SSA Reporting Changes (accessed 2025-11-06)
Contact a disability attorney or advocate for help with your application. Many offer free consultations and can help you avoid common mistakes.
Yes, Down Syndrome is a qualifying condition for SSI if the person meets income and resource limits. Children with Down Syndrome may qualify if their family income is low enough. Adults with Down Syndrome may qualify if they have limited income and resources.
Apply for Medicaid through the New Mexico Human Services Department online or in person. You will need proof of income, resources, and a diagnosis of Down Syndrome. Medicaid is often linked to SSI eligibility.
In 2025, the SGA limit for SSDI is $1,810 per month for non-blind individuals. Earning more than this may affect your SSDI benefits.
Yes, adults with Down Syndrome can get SSDI if they have a work history and have earned enough work credits. They must also meet the medical criteria for disability.
New Mexico offers Medicaid, SNAP (food benefits), Children’s Medical Services, and Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. State-funded food benefits may be available if federal SNAP is suspended.
Report changes in income, resources, or health to Social Security and the New Mexico Human Services Department as soon as possible. Keep records of all reports and correspondence.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In New Mexico, you can open an ABLE account if you became disabled before age 26. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses.
Yes, Social Security offers work incentives for people with disabilities, including trial work periods and continued Medicaid coverage while working. These help people with Down Syndrome try working without losing benefits.
Approval times vary. SSI and SSDI applications can take 3-6 months or longer. Medicaid and SNAP may be approved faster. Keep copies of all applications and follow up if you do not hear back.
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. You have 60 days to file an appeal. Get help from a disability attorney or advocate if needed.
