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Oregon • Rare/Genetic
People with Rett Syndrome in Oregon may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs for Oregon residents.
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. SSDI is for those who have paid into Social Security through payroll taxes. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require that your condition meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability, which for Rett Syndrome is typically met due to its severe impact on daily functioning. Income and asset limits apply, especially for SSI. You can learn more about federal eligibility at ssa.gov[7].
In Oregon, people with Rett Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid waivers, which provide home and community-based services for those with developmental disabilities. Oregon’s Public Employees’ Benefit Board (PEBB) offers short-term disability for eligible public employees, covering up to 60% of earnings for 4–13 weeks. Recent 2025 legislation changed disability eligibility for police and firefighter members, but most Oregonians with Rett Syndrome will qualify under standard state and federal rules. Oregon also offers ABLE accounts for saving for disability-related expenses, with a 2025 contribution limit of $15,060 or total wages, whichever is less[8].
Oregon’s ABLE Savings Program lets families save for disability-related expenses tax-free. In 2025, the limit for additional ABLE to Work contributions is $15,060 or your total wages, whichever is less. ABLE accounts do not affect SSI or Medicaid eligibility as long as balances stay under $100,000. Learn more and apply at oregonablesavings.com[8].
For SSI, income and asset limits apply. In 2025, the federal SSI limit is $943/month for an individual. SSDI is not needs-based, but substantial gainful activity (SGA) limits apply ($1,550/month in 2025). Earning above these limits can affect eligibility. Learn more about income limits at ssa.gov[7].
You must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Failure to report can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits. Oregon requires prompt reporting of changes to ODHS and Social Security. Learn more about avoiding overpayments at /guides/overpayments-and-reporting.
If SNAP benefits are delayed due to federal changes, contact ODHS or 211info for emergency food resources. Recipients may receive missed benefits retroactively once the shutdown ends[5][6].
Oregon’s 2025 PERS legislation changed disability eligibility for public employees. Most Oregonians with Rett Syndrome will qualify under standard rules, but check with your employer if you are a public employee[1].
Rett Syndrome is considered a severe disability by the Social Security Administration. Most people with Rett Syndrome will qualify for SSI or SSDI, but you must apply and provide medical evidence. Contact Social Security for a formal determination[7].
Oregon offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services for people with developmental disabilities. These waivers help pay for personal care, therapies, and other supports. Contact ODHS for eligibility and application details[5].
Visit oregonablesavings.com to open an ABLE account online. You will need proof of disability and a Social Security number. The 2025 contribution limit is $15,060 or your total wages, whichever is less[8].
Yes, but there are income limits. For SSI, earning above $943/month may reduce or end benefits. SSDI has a higher limit ($1,550/month in 2025). Learn about work incentives at /guides/work-incentives[7].
If SNAP benefits are cut, ODHS will notify recipients and may pay missed benefits retroactively. Contact ODHS or 211info for help finding emergency food resources[5][6].
Public employees may qualify for PEBB short-term disability, covering up to 60% of earnings for 4–13 weeks. Recent 2025 law changes affect police and firefighters, but most public employees follow standard rules[1][3].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult official state and federal agencies for the most current eligibility and application rules.
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to ODHS and Social Security promptly. Failure to report can result in overpayments or loss of benefits. Learn more at /guides/overpayments-and-reporting.
Families can access Medicaid waivers, SNAP, ABLE accounts, and support from the Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC). Contact ADRC for referrals to local services and resources[5].
