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Rhode Island • Rare/Genetic
People with Williams Syndrome in Rhode Island may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and vocational rehabilitation. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
People with Williams Syndrome may qualify for federal disability benefits if their condition limits their ability to work. The two main programs are Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, including children. Both programs require medical proof that the disability is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) sets the rules for eligibility and reviews medical records to decide if someone qualifies [2].
In Rhode Island, people with Williams Syndrome may also qualify for state programs. Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) provides short-term wage replacement for non-work-related illness or injury. To qualify for TDI, you must have paid into the TDI fund and earned at least $18,000 in your base period (the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before your claim). If you earned less, you may still qualify if you meet certain conditions, such as earning at least $3,000 in one quarter and having total base period wages of at least $6,000. You must also be unemployed for at least seven consecutive days due to a non-work-related illness or injury [5]. Rhode Island also offers vocational rehabilitation services for those who need help preparing for, obtaining, or maintaining employment [4].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Rhode Island residents can open an ABLE account to pay for disability-related expenses. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed [internal_links].
For SSI, the income limit is based on federal guidelines and changes yearly. In 2024, the federal benefit rate is $943 per month for an individual. For Medicaid, income limits vary based on household size and program. Check with the RI Department of Human Services for current limits [3].
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you must report it to avoid penalties. Report changes in income, living situation, or medical status to the Social Security Administration and the RI Department of Human Services. For more information, see [internal_links].
Contact the Rhode Island Office of Rehabilitation Services at 401-421-7005 for help with disability applications and vocational rehab.
Yes, if Williams Syndrome limits your ability to work and meets Social Security's definition of disability, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. Medical evidence is required to prove the disability.
TDI provides short-term wage replacement for non-work-related illness or injury. You must have paid into the TDI fund and meet earnings requirements to qualify.
Apply online through the RI Department of Human Services or at a local DHS office. You may also be eligible for Medicaid waivers for additional support.
An ABLE account allows tax-free savings for disability-related expenses. Rhode Island residents can open an account to help with costs like housing, education, and healthcare.
Yes, the Office of Rehabilitation Services offers vocational rehab for people with disabilities. You must have a substantial barrier to employment and need for services to qualify.
The federal SSI income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2024. Medicaid income limits vary by household size and program. Check with DHS for current limits.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult official sources for the most current eligibility and application details.
Report changes in income, living situation, or medical status to the Social Security Administration and the RI Department of Human Services to avoid overpayments and penalties.
Families may qualify for SSI, Medicaid, and state programs like vocational rehab and developmental disabilities support. Contact local agencies for more information.
Yes, organizations like Lift and Care Systems can help you find and fund durable medical equipment. Contact them for a free consultation.
If benefits are stopped, you have 60 days to file an appeal with the Social Security Administration. You may also request a face-to-face hearing.
