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Ohio • Rare/Genetic
People with Rett Syndrome in Ohio may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), eligibility is based on financial need and disability status, not work history. Children with Rett Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their family meets income and asset limits. Adults with a disability that began before age 22 may be eligible for benefits based on a parent's work record, even if they never worked themselves. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews medical evidence to determine if a condition meets the definition of disability[4].
In Ohio, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by the Social Security Administration, but the Division of Disability Determination (DDD) of Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) handles medical reviews for Ohio applicants. Ohio also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can provide support for people with developmental disabilities like Rett Syndrome. County boards of developmental disabilities can help with assessment, service planning, and coordination. Ohio residents may also access legal advocacy and rights protection through Disability Rights Ohio[2][3].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI and other benefits. Ohio residents can open an ABLE account through the Ohio STABLE program. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, including education, housing, and transportation[3].
For SSI in 2025, the income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. The substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit for SSDI is $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind). These limits may change each year, so check SSA.gov for updates[4].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to the SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you earn too much or if your circumstances change. Report changes promptly to avoid penalties or loss of benefits[4].
Contact your local county board of developmental disabilities or Disability Rights Ohio for help with applications and advocacy.
Rett Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects brain development, mostly in girls. It causes problems with movement, communication, and behavior. Most people with Rett Syndrome have severe disabilities and need lifelong support.
Yes, children with Rett Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their family meets income and asset limits. The child must have a qualifying disability, and benefits can continue into adulthood if the disability persists[4].
Adults with Rett Syndrome may qualify for SSDI if they have a qualifying work history. If the disability began before age 22, they may be eligible for benefits based on a parent's work record, even if they never worked themselves[4].
Medicaid waivers in Ohio provide home and community-based services for people with developmental disabilities. These waivers can help with supports like personal care, therapy, and respite care for people with Rett Syndrome[3].
Contact your local county board of developmental disabilities to apply for Medicaid waivers. They can help with assessment, service planning, and enrollment in waiver programs[3].
An ABLE account is a savings account for people with disabilities. Ohio residents can open an account through the Ohio STABLE program. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses without affecting SSI eligibility[3].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.
Work incentives are programs that help people with disabilities work while keeping their benefits. These include the Ticket to Work program, work expense deductions, and trial work periods[5].
Report changes in income, living situation, or disability status to the SSA as soon as possible. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person to avoid overpayments or loss of benefits[4].
Disability Rights Ohio provides legal advocacy and rights protection for people with disabilities. They can help with issues like representative payees, benefits appeals, and rights violations[2].
Contact your local county board of developmental disabilities for assessment and services. You can also reach out to Disability Rights Ohio for legal help and advocacy[3][2].
