People with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome 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. Eligibility depends on medical severity, income, and work history. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, your Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome must be severe enough to stop you from doing substantial work for at least a year or be expected to result in death. For SSDI, you must have paid enough Social Security taxes through work and earned enough work credits. In 2025, you earn 1 credit for each $1,810 in wages, up to 4 credits per year. Most adults need 40 credits, with half earned in the last 20 years. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical proof of your disability[6][7].
In New Mexico, people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid if they meet income and medical criteria. Medicaid can cover health care, home and community-based services, and long-term care. The state also offers waivers, like the Developmental Disabilities Waiver, for people who need support but want to live in the community instead of an institution. Children with chronic illness or disability may qualify for Children’s Medical Services. If you lose federal SNAP benefits, New Mexico may provide state-funded food assistance for a short time[2][3][4][5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for qualified expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In New Mexico, you can open an ABLE account if your disability started before age 26. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and more. Learn more at the ABLE National Resource Center[3].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $914 per month for an individual. New Mexico Medicaid income limits vary by program, but generally, you must have low income and limited resources. For Medicaid waivers, there may be higher income limits if you have high medical expenses[5][3].
If your income, work, or health changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you get more benefits than you qualify for. Report changes to Social Security and Medicaid right away to avoid penalties[7].
Contact a local disability attorney or advocate for help with your application. They can guide you through the process and help you gather the right documents.
Yes, if your Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is severe enough to stop you from working for at least a year, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must provide medical proof and meet income or work history requirements[6][7].
SSI is for people with low income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both require medical proof of disability[6][7].
You can apply for Medicaid online at YES.NM.GOV, by phone at 1-800-283-4465, or at a local HCA office. You will need to provide proof of income and medical need[3][5].
A Medicaid waiver lets people with disabilities get home and community-based services instead of living in an institution. The Developmental Disabilities Waiver is one example[4][5].
Yes, if federal SNAP benefits are lost, New Mexico may provide state-funded food assistance for a short time. Apply at YES.NM.GOV or by phone[2].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money for qualified expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can open one if your disability started before age 26[3].
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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Yes, you must report changes in income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. Report changes to Social Security and Medicaid right away[7].
Children with chronic illness or disability may qualify for Children’s Medical Services, which provides coordinated, family-centered care[3].
The process can take several months. It’s important to apply as soon as possible and provide all required documents[6].
Yes, there are work incentives that let you try working without losing benefits. The SGA limit in 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals[7].
