People with traumatic brain injury (TBI) in New Mexico may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs for food, health, and financial support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with traumatic brain injury (TBI), you must have a medical condition that prevents you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a strict definition of disability, and TBI is listed in their Blue Book under neurological disorders.
For SSDI, you need enough work credits based on your employment history. In 2025, you earn 1 credit for each $1,810 in wages or self-employment income, up to 4 credits per year. Most adults need 40 credits, with half earned in the last 20 years. SSDI is not based on income or assets.
For SSI, eligibility is based on limited income and resources, and you must meet SSA’s disability criteria. SSI is for people with low income and few assets, regardless of work history.
The SGA limit for non-blind individuals in 2025 is $1,620 per month, and for statutorily blind individuals, it is $2,700 per month. Earning above these amounts may affect your benefits.
SSA Disability Qualifications | SSA Work Credits
In New Mexico, people with traumatic brain injury may also qualify for state-specific programs. The State of New Mexico Disability Policy provides financial aid for eligible state and local employees who cannot work due to sickness or injury, if not receiving Workers Compensation. This is a voluntary plan, and employees must pay premiums for 12 consecutive months before becoming eligible.
New Mexico also offers state-funded food benefits through the Health Care Authority, especially important during federal benefit suspensions. Eligible seniors and people with disabilities continue to receive food assistance via EBT cards.
Medicaid waivers in New Mexico, such as Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), can provide additional support for people with TBI, including personal care and therapy services.
State of New Mexico Disability Policy | NM Health Care Authority | NM Medicaid Waivers
State Disability Policy | NM Medicaid Waivers | NM ABLE Accounts | NM Vocational Rehabilitation | NM Health Care Authority | MyBenefitsNM Portal
New Mexico offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities, including traumatic brain injury. These accounts allow you to save money for qualified expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. Contributions are tax-free, and earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are also tax-free.
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. The resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. SSDI has no income or resource limits, but earnings above the SGA limit ($1,620/month for non-blind, $2,700/month for blind in 2025) may affect benefits.
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 or NM Health Care Authority promptly. Failure to report can result in penalties or loss of benefits.
Contact a disability attorney or advocate for help with your application. They can guide you through the process and help you gather the necessary documentation.
The SGA limit for non-blind individuals with TBI in 2025 is $1,620 per month. For statutorily blind individuals, it is $2,700 per month. Earning above these amounts may affect your disability benefits.
Yes, if you meet the eligibility requirements for both programs. SSDI is based on work history, while SSI is for people with limited income and resources. You can receive both if you qualify.
Contact the NM Health Care Authority or visit the MyBenefitsNM portal to apply for Medicaid waivers. You will need to provide medical documentation and meet income and disability criteria.
The State Disability Policy provides financial aid to state and local employees who cannot work due to TBI, if not receiving Workers Compensation. Employees must pay premiums for 12 consecutive months before becoming eligible.
Yes, New Mexico offers work incentives through SSDI, SSI, and vocational rehabilitation programs. These incentives help people with TBI return to work or learn new skills without losing benefits.
Report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA or NM Health Care Authority promptly. You can report online, by phone, or in person to avoid overpayments and penalties.
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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An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities, including TBI. It allows you to save for qualified expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits.
Yes, people with TBI in New Mexico can get food benefits through SNAP and state-funded programs, especially if they are low-income, elderly, or disabled.
You need doctor’s reports, test results, treatment plans, and any other medical records that show the severity and impact of your TBI on your ability to work.
The process can take several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of your case and the backlog at the SSA. Applying with complete documentation can help speed up the process.
