People with intellectual disability in Utah can access federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and work incentives. Eligibility depends on income, disability status, and work history. This guide covers how to apply, what benefits are available, and how to keep them.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a medically determinable disability that prevents substantial work for at least 12 months. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Children with intellectual disability may qualify for SSI or SSDI as a dependent. Adults with a disability that began before age 22 may qualify for Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits based on a parent's record. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for those who are statutorily blind. Earnings above SGA may affect eligibility for SSDI and DAC benefits [1].
In Utah, individuals with intellectual disability may qualify for Medicaid if they receive SSI or Social Security Disability benefits. If not on SSI or SSDI, the State Medicaid Medical Review Board can determine disability. Utah's Medicaid Aged, Blind or Disabled Programs provide medical assistance for those aged 65+, blind, or disabled. Eligibility for these programs is based on income and disability status. Utah also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can provide additional support for people with intellectual disability. To qualify for these waivers, you must meet both federal and state disability criteria and have income and resources within limits. State-specific rules may change, so check with the Utah Department of Health and Human Services for updates [4].
ABLE accounts let people with intellectual disability save up to $19,000 per year in 2025 without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like education, housing, and transportation. Utah offers its own ABLE program. Learn more at the Utah ABLE website or through the Disability Law Center [6].
In 2025, the SGA limit for SSDI is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for those who are statutorily blind. Earnings above SGA may affect eligibility for SSDI and DAC benefits. For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025, but Utah may have different rules. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size. Check with the Utah Health Program for current limits [1][5][4].
You must report changes in income, living situation, or disability status to Social Security and Medicaid. Failure to report can result in overpayments and loss of benefits. If you receive an overpayment, you may request a waiver or repayment plan. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes in the SSI/SSDI guide [5][4].
The SGA limit in 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for those who are statutorily blind. Earnings above SGA may affect SSDI and DAC benefits. Always report earnings to Social Security to avoid overpayments [1][5].
Yes, you can work and keep some benefits through work incentives. The SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. If you earn more, your benefits may be suspended, but you can restart them if earnings drop below SGA. Report all earnings to Social Security [1][5].
Apply for Medicaid through the Utah Health Program online or at a local office. If you receive SSI, you may be automatically enrolled. If not, the State Medicaid Medical Review Board can determine disability. Contact the Utah Department of Health and Human Services for help [4].
Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for people with intellectual disability, such as personal care and respite. Contact the Utah Division of Services for People with Disabilities (DSPD) to learn about eligibility and waitlists [4].
Yes, Utah offers ABLE accounts. You can save up to $19,000 per year in 2025 without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses. Learn more at the Utah ABLE website [6].
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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If you earn more than the SGA limit, your SSDI or DAC benefits may be suspended. If your earnings drop below SGA, you may be able to restart benefits. Always report earnings to Social Security [1][5].
Report changes in income, living situation, or disability status to Social Security and Medicaid. You can report online, by phone, or in person. Failure to report can result in overpayments and loss of benefits [5][4].
Yes, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides food assistance for low-income individuals, including those with intellectual disability. Apply through the Utah Health Program or local office [2].
SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those with a qualifying work history. Both provide monthly cash benefits for people with intellectual disability. Learn more in the SSI vs SSDI guide [5].
Yes, the Utah State Office of Rehabilitation (USOR) provides vocational rehabilitation and employment support for people with disabilities. Contact USOR for services and resources [3].
