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Oregon • Neurological/Developmental
People with Down Syndrome in Oregon can get federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what to expect in 2025.
To get federal disability benefits in Oregon, you must have a medically determinable impairment that stops you from working. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), adults need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have little or no income and resources ($2,000 for an individual, $3,000 for a couple in 2025). Children with Down Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their condition limits their activities and family income is low. Adults with Down Syndrome may qualify for SSDI if they have enough work history and cannot do substantial gainful activity (SGA), which is $1,620 per month in 2025 (or $2,700 if blind)[^1][^2][^3].
Oregon uses federal rules for SSI and SSDI eligibility, but has its own programs for people with developmental disabilities like Down Syndrome. Oregon’s Medicaid waivers (HCBS) help people with Down Syndrome live in the community instead of institutions. To qualify, you must have a developmental disability diagnosis and meet financial limits. Oregon also offers ABLE accounts, which let families save up to $15,060 per year in 2025 without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. State rules may change in 2025, especially for work and income. For example, OPSRP disability members can earn up to 10% of their previous monthly salary in irregular income without losing benefits[^4][^5][^6].
Oregon’s ABLE Savings Program lets families save for disability-related costs. You can contribute up to $15,060 per year in 2025 or your total wages, whichever is less. ABLE accounts do not count against SSI or Medicaid limits. This is a good option for families of people with Down Syndrome who want to save for future needs[^8].
For SSI in 2025, the income limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. For SSDI, you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month from work (SGA limit). For Oregon Medicaid waivers, income and asset limits apply. ABLE accounts let you save up to $15,060 per year without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits[^1][^2][^3][^8].
If your income or work changes, you must report it to Social Security and Oregon agencies. Not reporting can cause overpayments and loss of benefits. Oregon’s rules for disability benefits may change in 2025, especially for work and income. For example, OPSRP disability members can earn up to 10% of their previous monthly salary in irregular income without losing benefits[^4][^5][^6].
Disability Rights Oregon and the Aging and Disability Resource Connection can help you with applications and understanding your rights. Call or visit their websites for support.
Yes, a child with Down Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their condition limits their activities and family income is low. SSI can help pay for care and support. Apply through Social Security and Oregon’s Disability Determination Services[^1][^2].
The income limit for SSI in 2025 is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. This includes wages, benefits, and other income. ABLE accounts do not count against these limits[^2][^8].
Apply for Oregon Medicaid waivers through the Department of Human Services. You may need to join a waitlist. Waivers help people with Down Syndrome live in the community and get home care, respite, and other supports[^4][^5].
Yes, families of people with Down Syndrome can open an Oregon ABLE account. You can save up to $15,060 per year in 2025 or your total wages, whichever is less. ABLE accounts do not count against SSI or Medicaid limits[^8].
If you earn more than the SSI limit, you may lose benefits. For SSDI, you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month from work. Oregon’s rules may allow some earned income for disability members, but you must report changes to avoid overpayments[^1][^2][^4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Oregon’s new 2025 rules for police and firefighters with disabilities focus on whether they can do their previous job, not any job. These rules may affect disability benefits for public safety workers with Down Syndrome[^4].
Report changes in income or work to Social Security and Oregon agencies. Not reporting can cause overpayments and loss of benefits. Oregon’s rules may allow some earned income for disability members, but you must report changes[^4][^5][^6].
If your application is denied, you can appeal or request a hearing. Oregon’s PERS Board must refer cases for hearing within 180 days for police and firefighters, or 360 days if you request an extension[^4].
Yes, people with Down Syndrome may qualify for SNAP (food stamps) if their income is low. SNAP is funded by the federal government, but state rules apply. Changes in federal funding may affect SNAP in 2025[^5].
Disability Rights Oregon and the Aging and Disability Resource Connection can help you with applications and understanding your rights. Local agencies may also offer support[^7][^8].
