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Pennsylvania • Neurological/Developmental
Pennsylvania residents with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts. Eligibility depends on medical severity, work history, and financial need.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with ADHD, your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work for at least a year. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. You need enough work credits, usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years before your disability began [6]. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical proof that ADHD severely limits your ability to work [2].
In Pennsylvania, ADHD must meet federal Social Security Administration (SSA) criteria for disability. The state’s Bureau of Disability Determination Services (BDD) reviews medical evidence to decide if your ADHD is severe enough to qualify for benefits. Pennsylvania does not have a separate state disability program for ADHD, but residents may access Medicaid through SSI or other programs. Children with ADHD may qualify for Medicaid waivers if they meet income and disability requirements [2].
ABLE accounts let people with ADHD save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use funds for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation. Starting in 2026, more people will qualify as the age limit for disability onset increases from 26 to 46 [5].
Report any changes in income, work, or health to SSA or your County Assistance Office. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Use SSA’s online portal or call your local office to report changes [2].
Always report changes in income, work, or health to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits.
Yes, if ADHD is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least a year. You must provide medical proof and meet federal eligibility rules for SSI or SSDI [2].
SSI is for those with limited income and assets, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both require medical proof of disability [1].
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. Submit medical records, proof of income, and work history. The Bureau of Disability Determination Services will review your case [2].
No, Pennsylvania uses federal programs (SSI and SSDI) for ADHD. Residents may also access Medicaid and Medicaid waivers if they meet eligibility requirements [2].
Yes, children with severe ADHD may qualify for SSI or Medicaid waivers if they meet income and disability requirements. Parents must apply and provide medical evidence [2].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can get one if your ADHD meets SSA’s disability criteria [5].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
SSDI recipients can earn up to $1,550/month during a trial work period without losing benefits. SSI benefits are reduced as income increases [1].
SSI recipients get Medicaid. SSDI recipients get Medicare after 24 months. MAWD is available for those who work and have disabilities [4].
Yes, both SSDI and SSI have work incentives. SSDI has a trial work period. SSI has earned income disregards. These help you keep benefits while working [1].
Report changes in income, work, or health to SSA or your County Assistance Office. Use SSA’s online portal or call your local office to avoid overpayments [2].
