If you have Multiple Sclerosis in New Mexico, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid waivers and food assistance. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with Multiple Sclerosis, you must meet 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 12 months or result in death. For SSDI, you must have earned enough work credits from jobs covered by Social Security. For SSI, your income and resources must be limited. The SSA uses a medical listing for Multiple Sclerosis (Listing 11.09) to determine if your symptoms meet the criteria for automatic approval. If not, you may still qualify based on your functional limitations. [^1][^7]
In New Mexico, people with Multiple Sclerosis may also qualify for state-specific programs. The Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver provides home and community-based services for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, but some supports may be available for those with physical disabilities depending on eligibility. New Mexico also offers food assistance through SNAP, and state-funded benefits may be available if federal SNAP is suspended. The State Disability Plan provides short-term income replacement for state employees who are unable to work due to illness or injury, including Multiple Sclerosis, if not covered by workers’ compensation. [^3][^5][^2]
Collect Documentation: Get medical records that show your Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis, symptoms, and how it limits your daily activities. Include treatment history and doctor’s notes.
Apply for Federal Benefits: Go to the SSA website (ssa.gov) or your local Social Security office to apply for SSDI or SSI. You can apply online, by phone, or in person. Be ready to provide personal, medical, and work information. [^7]
Apply for Medicaid Waivers: If you need home or community-based services, contact the New Mexico Health Care Authority. You may need to register for the Central Registry and provide proof of disability and income. [^3]
Apply for Food Assistance: Apply for SNAP benefits through the New Mexico Human Services Department. If federal SNAP is suspended, check for state-funded food benefits announced by the Governor or Health Care Authority. [^2]
State Disability Plan: If you are a state employee, contact your HR or EASI Gov, Inc. to apply for short-term disability benefits. You must have paid premiums for 12 consecutive months before your disability. [^5]
Follow Up: Keep copies of all applications and correspondence. Respond promptly to requests for more information.
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. In New Mexico, you can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE program. Contributions are limited, and funds can be used for qualified disability expenses. [^8]
For SSI, the federal income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you cannot earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals in 2024 and expected to increase in 2025. [^4][^7]
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA promptly to avoid overpayments. [^8]
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 Multiple Sclerosis prevents you from working and meets the SSA’s medical criteria, you can apply for SSDI. You must have earned enough work credits from jobs covered by Social Security. [^7]
The federal SSI income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. New Mexico does not have a separate state supplement for SSI. [^7]
Contact the New Mexico Health Care Authority to apply for Medicaid waivers. You may need to register for the Central Registry and provide proof of disability and income. [^3]
The SGA limit for non-blind individuals in 2024 is $1,470 per month. This limit is expected to increase slightly in 2025 due to inflation. [^4]
Yes, but there are limits. If you earn more than the SGA limit, your SSDI may be suspended. SSI has different rules and work incentives. [^4]
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. You can use the funds for qualified expenses like housing, education, and transportation. [^8]
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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Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA promptly to avoid overpayments. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. [^8]
Yes, you may qualify for SNAP or state-funded food benefits if you have low income. Check with the New Mexico Human Services Department for eligibility and application. [^2]
The State Disability Plan provides short-term income replacement for state employees unable to work due to illness or injury, including Multiple Sclerosis, if not covered by workers’ compensation. [^5]
The approval process can take several months to over a year. Providing complete and accurate documentation can help speed up the process. [^7]
