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Pennsylvania • Rare/Genetic
Pennsylvania offers federal and state benefits for people with Rett Syndrome, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and special programs for workers with disabilities. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and medical criteria. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Pennsylvania, you must meet the Social Security Administration's (SSA) definition of disability. This means your condition must be severe, expected to last at least one year or result in death, and prevent you from doing substantial work. For SSDI, you need enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical proof of disability, such as a diagnosis of Rett Syndrome and supporting medical records [1].
In Pennsylvania, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by the SSA, but the state’s Bureau of Disability Determination Services (BDD) reviews medical evidence for claims. For SSI, the income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. The asset limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. SSDI has no income or asset limits, but you must have earned enough work credits. Pennsylvania also offers Medicaid to SSI recipients and special programs like MAWD for workers with disabilities, which allows higher income and asset limits [1][2][4].
Pennsylvania offers ABLE accounts, which allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, and transportation. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one in Pennsylvania [internal_link: ABLE Accounts].
It is important to report any changes in your income, assets, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands and loss of benefits. Learn how to report changes and avoid overpayments [internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Contact Disability Rights Pennsylvania for free help with applications and appeals. Call 1-800-692-7443, Monday–Friday, 9:00 am–3:00 pm.
Yes, Rett Syndrome can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it meets the Social Security Administration's criteria for disability. You must provide medical evidence showing how the condition limits your ability to work [1][2].
SSI is for people with limited income and assets, regardless of work history. SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security contributions. Both programs provide monthly payments and access to healthcare [1][2].
Yes, you can work while receiving SSI or SSDI. SSI benefits may be reduced if you earn more than the income limit. SSDI has a trial work period where you can earn up to $1,550 per month without losing benefits [1].
You can apply for Medicaid through COMPASS.state.pa.us, by phone at 1-866-550-4355, or in person at your County Assistance Office. SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid in Pennsylvania [4][5].
MAWD is a Medicaid program for workers with disabilities. To qualify, you must be employed, have a disability that meets SSA standards, and have income below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level. Resource limit is $10,000 [4][5].
Yes, some people qualify for both SSI and SSDI, known as concurrent benefits. This happens when your SSDI benefit is low and SSI supplements your income up to the federal benefit rate [1].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with an expert or official agency for your specific situation.
People with Rett Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid, Medicare (after 24 months on SSDI), and special programs like MAWD. Medicaid covers a wide range of medical services, including doctor visits, prescriptions, and therapy [1][4].
You can prove your disability with medical records, a diagnosis of Rett Syndrome, and supporting documentation from healthcare providers. For MAWD, you can also use your SSDI award letter as proof [5].
Yes, Pennsylvania offers work incentives like the trial work period for SSDI and MAWD for Medicaid. These programs allow you to work and earn more while keeping your benefits [1][4].
If your benefits are denied, you can appeal the decision. Contact Disability Rights Pennsylvania for help with appeals and advocacy [7].
