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New Mexico • Chronic Illness
People in New Mexico with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key programs like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and SNAP.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. You must also have earned enough work credits from jobs covered by Social Security. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must meet SSA criteria. Both programs require proof of your disability, such as medical records and doctor statements [1].
For 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above this limit may affect your benefits [3].
In New Mexico, people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis may qualify for Medicaid waivers, which provide home and community-based services. The state also offers the State SNAP Supplement for elderly or disabled households, which can help with food costs. If federal SNAP benefits are suspended, New Mexico may use state funds to provide temporary food assistance [2].
New Mexico residents should check with the Health Care Authority for updates on Medicaid and SNAP eligibility. The state may require additional documentation or have specific rules for people with chronic illnesses like ME [4].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. In New Mexico, you can open an ABLE account through the state's ABLE program. The account can be used for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and transportation [internal_links].
For SSI, the 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 SGA limit ($1,620 for non-blind individuals in 2025) without risking your benefits [3].
You must report any changes in your condition, income, or living situation to SSA and state agencies. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay. For more information, see our guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes [internal_links].
Contact a disability attorney or advocate for help with your application. They can guide you through the process and help you avoid common mistakes.
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) is a chronic illness that causes severe fatigue, pain, and other symptoms. It can make it hard to work or do daily activities. The Social Security Administration recognizes ME as a disabling condition if it meets their criteria [1].
To qualify for SSDI, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months and have earned enough work credits. You must also meet the SSA's definition of disability. For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals [3].
Yes, people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis may qualify for Medicaid in New Mexico. You can apply through Yes.NM.Gov. Medicaid waivers may provide additional services for people with disabilities [4].
The State SNAP Supplement is an extra $100 per month in food benefits for elderly or disabled SNAP households in New Mexico. This supplement helps with food costs and is available even if federal SNAP benefits are suspended [2].
You can apply for SSDI/SSI online at ssa.gov or at a local Social Security office. For Medicaid and SNAP, use Yes.NM.Gov. You may need to provide medical records and proof of income [5].
Medicaid waivers in New Mexico provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities. These services can include personal care, respite care, and supported employment. You can apply for waivers through the Health Care Authority [internal_links].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits, but you cannot earn more than the SGA limit ($1,620 per month for non-blind individuals in 2025) without risking your benefits. There are work incentives to help you keep benefits while working [internal_links].
An ABLE account is a savings account for people with disabilities. You can save money without losing SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. The account can be used for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and transportation [internal_links].
To avoid overpayments, report any changes in your condition, income, or living situation to SSA and state agencies. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay [internal_links].
If federal SNAP benefits are suspended, New Mexico may use state funds to provide temporary food assistance. Check with the Health Care Authority for updates and apply for state-funded food benefits if eligible [2].
