Dysgraphia Benefits in New Mexico

To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI) with a learning disability like dysgraphia in New Mexico, your condition must limit your daily activities and last at least one year or be expected to result in death[1]. SSDI requires sufficient work credits (generally 40, with at least half earned in the past 20 years); SSI is for lower-income households and is based on financial need[1]. Both require you to be unable to engage in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). For 2025, the SGA limit is expected to rise with cost-of-living changes, meaning you can earn slightly more without losing benefits[5]. Children under 18 with severe dysgraphia may qualify for SSI if their condition seriously limits functioning, and parent/guardian income and resources are considered.

New Mexico provides extra supports for people with disabilities beyond federal programs. Children and young adults with dysgraphia may get help through the Children’s Medical Services program (under 21)[3]. Medicaid may cover those eligible for SSI, and the state offers transitional Medicaid if you lose SSI for certain reasons[3]. The Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver targets intellectual and developmental disabilities but prioritizes people needing extensive daily supports, which is less common for learning disabilities like dysgraphia[4]. ABLE accounts are available statewide for those with disabilities onset before age 26. State-specific disability policies may also provide aid for government workers, but these are not targeted to learning disabilities—contact the state’s Human Resources Department for details.

To start your New Mexico disability benefits application for dysgraphia:

• Contact the Social Security Administration to apply for SSI or SSDI online, by phone, or at your local office.
• Reach out to Centennial Care (Medicaid) for health coverage—children with disabilities often qualify.
• Check eligibility for ABLE accounts if you became disabled before age 26.
• Connect with local organizations for one-on-one application support and advocacy.
• Keep records of medical documents, school records, and work history.

Applying for Federal Benefits (SSI/SSDI):

1. Prepare your documentation: Gather work history, school records, medical records, and therapist/teacher statements that show how dysgraphia affects daily activities.
2. Apply online or by phone: File for SSI or SSDI through the Social Security website or by calling 1-800-772-1213. If you prefer, visit your local Social Security office in New Mexico[6].
3. Submit supporting evidence: Provide all required paperwork, including forms, proof of identity, and detailed descriptions of your disability.
4. Follow up: Check your claim status online, by phone, or in person. Appeals may be needed if you are denied.

Applying for New Mexico Medicaid and Waivers:

1. Apply for Centennial Care: Fill out a Medicaid application online, by mail, or in person through the New Mexico Human Services Department.
2. Check Children’s Medical Services: If under 21, ask your doctor about eligibility for Children’s Medical Services, which supports children with chronic conditions and disabilities[3].
3. Inquire about Medicaid waivers: The Developmental Disabilities Waiver is mainly for intellectual disabilities, but it’s always worth asking your caseworker if you need significant daily supports[4].
4. Document eligibility changes: If you lose SSI, New Mexico allows up to two months of continued Medicaid while you apply under a different category[3].

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides monthly cash for low-income, disabled children and adults. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) pays benefits if you (or a family member) have enough work credits. Medicare offers health coverage after two years of SSDI eligibility. ABLE accounts allow tax-advantaged savings for people who became disabled before age 26.

New Mexico Medicaid (Centennial Care) offers health coverage for low-income families and individuals with disabilities. Children under 21 with learning disabilities such as dysgraphia may qualify for Children’s Medical Services, providing access to coordinated care and therapies[3]. The Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities—while dysgraphia is a learning disability, severe cases may sometimes receive supports, so it’s important to consult with case managers[4]. SNAP (food assistance) is administered by the state through the Human Services Department, and state-funded food benefits may be available if federal SNAP is disrupted[2]. For government employees, NM disability policy provides benefits for those unable to work due to injury or illness, but this typically does not cover learning disabilities—contact your HR department for specific rules.

ABLE accounts in New Mexico let people with disabilities save up to $15,000 per year (as of 2023, subject to change) without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. The account can be used for qualified disability expenses, including education and assistive technology. Eligibility requires disability onset before age 26.

SSI has strict income and asset limits—in 2025, individuals can generally have up to $2,000 in resources ($3,000 for couples). SSDI does not have income limits but restricts work through the SGA cap (expected around $1,470/month in 2025 for non-blind individuals). Medicaid also has income limits, but children and disabled adults may qualify under special rules.

Report any changes in income, living situation, or health status to Social Security and Medicaid promptly to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much money, Social Security will ask for repayment—work with your caseworker to set up a plan. For Medicaid, notify the New Mexico Human Services Department.

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

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Hours: MF 7a–7p

  Website

  Apply for SSI/SSDI and check eligibility
• New Mexico Medicaid (Centennial Care)
  Phone: 1-800-432-6217

  Hours: MF 7:45a–6p

  Website

  Apply for Medicaid and check Children’s Medical Services eligibility

• Can my child with dysgraphia qualify for SSI in New Mexico?

  Yes, if your child’s dysgraphia severely limits schoolwork, communication, or daily activities, and your family meets income guidelines, you may qualify for SSI. School and medical records are important evidence.

• What is the difference between SSI and SSDI for dysgraphia?

  SSI is for low-income children and adults, regardless of work history. SSDI is for adults who have worked and paid into Social Security. See our guide on SSI vs SSDI for more.

• Does New Mexico offer Medicaid for people with learning disabilities?

  Yes, children and adults with learning disabilities like dysgraphia can qualify for Medicaid if they meet income or disability criteria. Children may access extra services through Children’s Medical Services.

• Can I work and still receive SSDI or SSI for dysgraphia?

  Yes, but earnings must stay below the SGA limit (around $1,470/month in 2025 for non-blind individuals). Work incentives and ABLE accounts can help you save and earn more without losing benefits.

• What is the Developmental Disabilities Waiver and does it cover dysgraphia?

  The DD Waiver primarily supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, not specific learning disabilities. However, if your needs are significant, ask your caseworker about possible supports.

• How do ABLE accounts help people with dysgraphia in New Mexico?

  ABLE accounts let you save for qualified disability expenses, such as assistive technology and education, without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid.