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New York • Physical/Mobility
People with Spina Bifida in New York can access federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. These programs help cover medical care, daily living, and financial needs.
Spina Bifida is a physical disability that often qualifies for federal benefits. To get Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must meet Social Security’s definition. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a qualifying work history and a disability that prevents substantial work. Both programs require medical proof of your condition and its impact on daily life. Children with Spina Bifida may qualify for SSI if family income and resources are low enough. Adults with Spina Bifida may qualify for SSDI if they have enough work credits. [^1]
In New York, people with Spina Bifida can get Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. These waivers help with personal care, therapies, and equipment. To qualify, you must meet Medicaid’s income and asset rules and show a functional need for services. New York also offers ABLE accounts for saving money without losing benefits. SSI and SSDI recipients in New York may get extra state supplements. Medicaid waivers may have waiting lists, so apply early. [^2][^3]
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In New York, you can open an ABLE account through the NY ABLE Program. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) and use funds for disability-related expenses. [^5]
SSI has strict income and asset limits. In 2025, the federal SSI limit is $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple. New York adds a state supplement. SSDI has no income limit, but you must not earn more than $1,620/month (2025) from work. Medicaid has income and asset limits based on household size. [^1][^2]
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Keep records of all changes and report them promptly. [^6]
Contact your local Social Security office or the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities for help with applications and questions.
Yes, Spina Bifida can qualify for SSI if it meets Social Security’s disability criteria and your income and resources are low enough. You must provide medical proof of your condition and its impact on daily life.
New York offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, including personal care, therapies, and equipment. These waivers help people with Spina Bifida live independently and get needed services.
Apply for SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local Social Security office. You need medical proof of your disability and a qualifying work history.
Yes, you can open an ABLE account through the NY ABLE Program. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) and use funds for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
In 2025, the federal SSI limit is $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple. New York adds a state supplement. Medicaid has income and asset limits based on household size.
Yes, report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Keep records of all changes and report them promptly.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes, New York adds a state supplement to SSI payments. This extra cash helps cover living costs. You may also qualify for Medicaid and Medicaid waivers.
Apply for Medicaid waivers through the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities. You must meet Medicaid’s income and asset rules and show a functional need for services.
Yes, children with Spina Bifida may qualify for SSI if family income and resources are low enough. They may also qualify for Medicaid waivers for therapies and equipment.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources. SSDI is for people with a qualifying work history. Both programs require medical proof of disability and its impact on daily life.
