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Rhode Island • Rare/Genetic
People with Fragile X Syndrome in Rhode Island may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI), state Medicaid programs, and vocational rehabilitation services. Eligibility depends on medical status, income, and work history. Rhode Island offers flexible Medicaid options for working individuals with disabilities.
SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Federal program for people with limited income and resources who are aged, blind, or disabled. Fragile X Syndrome may qualify if it causes significant functional limitations. There is no work history requirement. [^1]
SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): For people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. You must have a severe disability that prevents substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Fragile X Syndrome may qualify if it meets these criteria. [^1]
Medicaid: People approved for SSI automatically qualify for Medicaid in Rhode Island. SSDI recipients may qualify after 24 months for Medicare. [^1]
Medicare: SSDI recipients receive Medicare after 24 months of receiving SSDI benefits. [^1]
Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Some people with disabilities may qualify for home and community-based services through Medicaid waivers, which can provide additional support. [^2]
Medicaid Buy-In (Ticket to Work): Rhode Island’s Medicaid Buy-In Program for Working People with Disabilities (Ticket to Work) is for ages 16–64. There are no income or asset limits, so you can earn and save more while keeping Medicaid coverage. This is especially helpful for people with Fragile X Syndrome who want to work. [^2]
Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI): Provides short-term wage replacement for non-work-related illnesses or injuries. To qualify, you must have paid into the TDI fund and earned at least $16,800 in your base period, or meet alternative criteria. Benefits last up to 30 weeks. [^3]
Vocational Rehabilitation Services: For people with a physical, intellectual, or emotional impairment that is a substantial barrier to employment. Services include job training, counseling, and support to help you prepare for, obtain, or maintain employment. [^4]
Workers’ Compensation: For workplace injuries or disabilities. If Fragile X Syndrome causes a workplace injury, you may qualify for workers’ compensation. [^5]
Step 1: Gather Medical Records Collect all medical records and documentation related to Fragile X Syndrome, including genetic testing, doctor’s notes, and treatment history. [^1]
Step 2: Apply for SSI/SSDI Go to SSA.gov and fill out the online application. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 for help. [^1]
Step 3: Apply for Medicaid If you qualify for SSI, you will automatically get Medicaid. If you are working, apply for Ticket to Work Medicaid through the RI Department of Human Services. [^2]
Step 4: Apply for TDI If you need short-term disability benefits, apply online at the RI Department of Labor and Training website or request a paper application by calling 401-462-8420. [^3]
Step 5: Apply for Vocational Rehabilitation Download the application from the Office of Rehabilitation Services website or call 401-421-7005 to request one. Complete the Release of Information form (ORS-37). [^4]
Step 6: Follow Up Keep copies of all applications and follow up regularly. If denied, you have the right to appeal. [^1][^2][^3][^4]
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. Rhode Island residents can open an ABLE account through the national ABLEnow program. Contributions are tax-free, and funds can be used for disability-related expenses. [^7]
SSI has strict income and resource limits. SSDI has no income limits but requires a work history. Rhode Island’s Ticket to Work Medicaid has no income or asset limits for ages 16–64. [^2]
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. [^8]
Rhode Island’s Ticket to Work Medicaid has no income or asset limits for ages 16–64, so you can work and save more while keeping Medicaid coverage.
Yes, Fragile X Syndrome can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it causes significant functional limitations and meets SSA criteria. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI requires a work history. [^1]
Rhode Island’s Medicaid Buy-In Program (Ticket to Work) provides Medicaid coverage for working people with disabilities ages 16–64. There are no income or asset limits, so you can earn and save more while keeping Medicaid coverage. [^2]
You can apply for TDI online at the RI Department of Labor and Training website or request a paper application by calling 401-462-8420. You must have paid into the TDI fund and meet earnings requirements. [^3]
Rhode Island’s Office of Rehabilitation Services offers job training, counseling, and support for people with disabilities. You must have a substantial barrier to employment and need vocational rehabilitation services. [^4]
Yes, Rhode Island’s Ticket to Work Medicaid has no income or asset limits, so you can work and keep Medicaid coverage. SSI and SSDI also have work incentives that allow you to work and keep some benefits. [^2][^1]
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about disability benefits in Rhode Island. Eligibility and program details may change. Always check official sources for the most current information.
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. Rhode Island residents can open an ABLE account through the national ABLEnow program. [^7]
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to the Social Security Administration and Rhode Island Department of Human Services to avoid overpayments. [^8]
Medicaid is for people with low income and disabilities. Medicare is for people with disabilities who have received SSDI for 24 months. Both provide health coverage but have different eligibility rules. [^1]
Yes, Rhode Island’s Office of Rehabilitation Services and private providers can help you find and fund durable medical equipment. Contact Lift and Care Systems for a free consultation. [^4]
If your benefits are denied, you have the right to appeal. Contact the Social Security Administration or Rhode Island Department of Human Services for information on the appeals process. [^1][^2]
