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New York • Neurodegenerative
People with Parkinson’s Disease in New York can get help from federal and state programs. These include Social Security disability (SSI/SSDI), Medicaid, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get support.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Parkinson’s Disease, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) criteria. The SSA lists Parkinson’s Disease in its Blue Book under Section 11.17. You need medical proof of symptoms like tremors, rigidity, or movement problems that limit your ability to work. You must also have enough work credits for SSDI or meet income and asset limits for SSI. Children with Parkinson’s may qualify for SSI if their family meets income rules. Adults with a disability that started before age 22 may qualify for benefits based on a parent’s record. [^1]
In New York, people with Parkinson’s Disease can get Medicaid if they meet income and asset limits. Medicaid covers doctor visits, medications, and home care. New York also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS). These waivers help people live at home instead of in institutions. To qualify, you must need a nursing home level of care but want to stay at home. You must also meet financial and medical criteria. The state also has programs for transportation, assistive devices, and caregiver support. [^2][^3]
The NY ABLE account lets people with Parkinson’s Disease save money for disability-related costs without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $17,000 per year and have a total balance of $100,000 without losing SSI. The account can pay for things like medical care, housing, education, and transportation. To open an account, go to the NY ABLE website and follow the steps. [^11]
For SSI, the 2025 federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. New York adds a small state supplement. For Medicaid, the income limit is higher, but you must also meet asset limits. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you must not be able to do substantial work. [^12]
It is important to report changes in income, assets, or living situation to SSA and Medicaid. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits. If you get an overpayment, you may have to pay it back. You can ask for a waiver if you can’t afford to pay. [^13]
Contact your local Social Security office or Department of Social Services for help with applications. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 for SSA or 1-855-355-5777 for Medicaid.
Yes, if your Parkinson’s Disease limits your ability to work and you meet income and asset limits. You need medical proof and must apply through the SSA.
New York offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. These help people live at home instead of in institutions. You must need a nursing home level of care and meet financial and medical criteria.
You can apply online, by phone, or at a local SSA office. You need medical records and work history. The SSA will review your case and decide if you qualify.
Yes, if you meet the rules for both. SSDI is based on work credits, and SSI is based on income and assets. You can get both if you qualify.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related costs without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can save up to $17,000 per year and use the money for things like medical care, housing, and education.
Yes, you must report changes in income, assets, or living situation. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Medicaid covers doctor visits, medications, home care, and more. Medicaid waivers can also pay for home care, transportation, and assistive devices.
Yes, if the child meets medical and income rules. The family’s income and assets must be low enough to qualify.
It can take 3–6 months to get approved for SSI or SSDI. Medicaid approval is usually faster, but waiver approval can take longer.
You can ask for a waiver if you can’t afford to pay back an overpayment. The SSA or Medicaid agency will review your case and decide if you qualify.
