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New Mexico • Chronic Illness
People with HIV/AIDS in New Mexico can access federal and state benefits, including Social Security Disability (SSDI/SSI), Medicaid, SNAP, and special programs. Eligibility depends on income, work history, and medical status. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with HIV/AIDS, you must have a diagnosis that meets the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means your condition must prevent you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for statutorily blind individuals. You must also have earned enough work credits for SSDI or meet income and asset limits for SSI. HIV/AIDS is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book under Section 14.11, so if your medical records show the required severity, you may qualify automatically.
In New Mexico, people with HIV/AIDS may qualify for Medicaid, SNAP, and other state programs. Medicaid eligibility is based on income and household size. New Mexico has expanded Medicaid, so adults with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level may qualify. If you lose SSI due to increased income, you may still get Medicaid for up to two months. SNAP benefits are available for low-income households, including those with HIV/AIDS. The state also offers special programs for children and adults with chronic illnesses, such as Children’s Medical Services. Eligibility for these programs depends on income, assets, and medical need.
Step 1: Get a diagnosis and medical records from your doctor. Make sure your records show how HIV/AIDS affects your ability to work.
Step 2: Apply for SSDI/SSI online at SSA.gov or visit a local Social Security office. You’ll need your Social Security number, medical records, and work history.
Step 3: Apply for Medicaid and SNAP at Yes.NM.Gov. You’ll need proof of income, residency, and identity.
Step 4: If you have children, apply for Children’s Medical Services through the NM Department of Health.
Step 5: Report any changes in income, work, or medical status to SSA and NM agencies to avoid overpayments.
Step 6: Keep copies of all applications and correspondence.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments for people who have worked and paid into Social Security.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly payments for low-income people with disabilities.
Medicaid: Health coverage for low-income people with disabilities.
SNAP: Food benefits for low-income households.
Medicare: Health coverage after 24 months of SSDI.
New Mexico Medicaid: Health coverage for low-income adults, children, and people with disabilities. Expanded to 138% of federal poverty level.
SNAP (Food Benefits): Monthly food assistance for low-income households.
Children’s Medical Services: Specialized care for children with chronic illnesses, including HIV/AIDS.
State SNAP Supplement: Extra food benefits for elderly and disabled households.
Housing Assistance: Programs for people with disabilities, including those with HIV/AIDS.
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. In New Mexico, you can open an ABLE account if you became disabled before age 26. Funds can be used for housing, education, and other expenses. Contributions are limited to $18,000 per year (2025).
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $914/month for individuals and $1,371/month for couples. For Medicaid in New Mexico, adults can earn up to 138% of the federal poverty level ($20,120/year for an individual). SNAP limits vary by household size.
You must report changes in income, work, or medical status to SSA and NM agencies. Failure to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. Report changes online, by phone, or in person.
Contact your local Social Security office or NM Human Services Department for help with applications and questions.
Yes, people with HIV/AIDS can get SSDI or SSI if their condition meets SSA criteria. You must show your illness prevents you from working and is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
Apply online at Yes.NM.Gov. You’ll need proof of income, residency, and identity. Medicaid covers health care for low-income adults, children, and people with disabilities.
For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for statutorily blind individuals. Earning more than this can affect your disability benefits.
Yes, SNAP is available for low-income households, including those with HIV/AIDS. Apply at Yes.NM.Gov. The state also offers extra food benefits for elderly and disabled households.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. In New Mexico, you can open one if you became disabled before age 26. Funds can be used for housing, education, and other expenses.
Report changes in income, work, or medical status to SSA and NM agencies online, by phone, or in person. Failure to report can lead to overpayments and penalties.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Eligibility and benefits may change. Always check with official agencies for the most current information.
Children’s Medical Services provides specialized care for children with chronic illnesses, including HIV/AIDS. The program covers preventive, diagnostic, treatment, and family support services.
Yes, New Mexico offers housing assistance programs for people with disabilities, including those with HIV/AIDS. Contact local agencies for help with rent, utilities, and housing.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid into Social Security. SSI is for low-income people with disabilities. Both programs provide monthly payments, but eligibility rules are different.
In 2025, SSDI and SSI recipients will get a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). This means your monthly payment will increase by 2.5%.
