If you have a mobility impairment in New Mexico, you may qualify for federal and state benefits like SSDI, SSI, Medicaid, and food assistance. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in New Mexico, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from doing substantial work for at least one year or is expected to result in death. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes. In 2025, you earn one credit for each $1,810 in wages, up to four credits per year. Most adults need 40 credits, with half earned in the last 20 years. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your income and resources must be below strict limits, and you must meet the Social Security Administration's definition of disability. Both programs require medical proof of your mobility impairment. [^1][^7]
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for 2025 is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,460 for blind individuals. If you earn more than this, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI. [^4][^8]
In New Mexico, people with mobility impairments may qualify for Medicaid if they meet federal and state rules. Medicaid can cover health care, including mobility aids and therapies. If you lose SSI because your Social Security benefits rise above the SSI limit, New Mexico may extend Medicaid for up to two months. Children with mobility impairments may qualify for Children’s Medical Services, which provides coordinated care and support. [^3]
New Mexico also offers state-funded food benefits if federal SNAP is unavailable. Eligible seniors and disabled people may get a $100 monthly supplement. The state uses EBT cards to distribute these benefits. [^2]
The State of New Mexico Disability Policy is a voluntary plan for state employees who lose income due to a non-work-related sickness or injury. You must pay premiums for 12 months before claiming benefits. [^5]
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. New Mexico residents can open an ABLE account to pay for disability-related expenses. Learn more at /guides/able-accounts.
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. SSDI has no income limit, but you must not earn more than the SGA limit ($1,470/month for non-blind). Medicaid and SNAP have their own income rules. [^4][^7]
Always report changes in income, work, or health to Social Security and state agencies. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and penalties. Learn more at /guides/overpayments-and-reporting.
Contact a disability attorney or advocate for help with your application. Some nonprofits offer free help for New Mexico residents.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with low income and resources. Both require proof of disability. SSDI has no income limit, but SSI does. [^1][^7]
Yes, if you meet federal and state rules. Medicaid can cover health care, mobility aids, and therapies. Children may qualify for Children’s Medical Services. [^3]
For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you must not earn more than the SGA limit ($1,470/month for non-blind in 2025). For SSI, the limit is $943/month for an individual. [^4][^7]
You need medical records that show your mobility impairment prevents substantial work for at least one year. The Social Security Administration will review your records. [^7]
Apply online at mybenefitsnm.com or at your local Human Services office. You may get state-funded food benefits if federal SNAP is unavailable. [^2]
Yes, you can get help from a disability attorney or advocate. Some nonprofits and legal aid groups offer free help. [^1]
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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You can appeal the decision. You have 60 days to file an appeal. You may need to provide more medical evidence. [^1]
Yes, always report changes to Social Security and state agencies. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and penalties. [^8]
Yes, but you must not earn more than the SGA limit. Social Security has work incentives to help you try working. [^4][^8]
It is a voluntary income replacement plan for state employees who lose income due to a non-work-related sickness or injury. You must pay premiums for 12 months before claiming benefits. [^5]
