If you have a spinal cord injury in Utah, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available in 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Utah, you must have a qualifying disability, such as a spinal cord injury, and enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 earned in the last 10 years)[^1]. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history[^1]. Both programs require that your disability prevents you from engaging in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), which in 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for those who are statutorily blind[^2][^3].
Children with spinal cord injuries may qualify for benefits if their parent is receiving Social Security or if they meet SSI criteria[^1]. Adults with a disability that began before age 22 may also be eligible for Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits based on a parent’s record[^1].
In Utah, individuals with a spinal cord injury may qualify for Medicaid if they are aged 65 or older, blind, or disabled[^4]. If you receive SSI or Social Security Disability benefits, you automatically meet the disability criteria for Utah Medicaid[^4]. If you do not receive these benefits, the State Medicaid Medical Review Board can determine your disability status without considering your ability to work[^4].
Utah also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can provide support for daily living and medical needs related to spinal cord injury[^4]. These waivers may have waiting lists and specific eligibility requirements, so it’s important to apply early and check with the Utah Department of Health and Human Services for current details[^4].
ABLE accounts allow individuals with disabilities to save up to $19,000 per year (or $34,650 if you work and your employer doesn’t contribute to your retirement account) in 2025. These accounts do not affect eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits[^5].
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. Earning above this limit may affect your SSDI or SSI benefits[^2][^3].
It’s important to report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to the Social Security Administration and Utah Medicaid. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties[^1].
Apply for benefits as soon as possible. Delays can affect your eligibility and payment start date.
Check official sources regularly for updates on benefit amounts, eligibility, and program changes.
The main benefits are Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Utah Medicaid. SSDI is for those with work credits, SSI for those with limited income, and Medicaid for medical coverage[^1][^4].
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, in person at a Social Security office, or by phone. For Medicaid, apply through the Utah Department of Health and Human Services[^1][^4].
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. Earning above this limit may affect your benefits[^2][^3].
Yes, you can work, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. There are work incentives that allow you to test employment without losing benefits[^2][^3].
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for disability-related expenses. In 2025, you can save up to $19,000 per year (or $34,650 if you work and your employer doesn’t contribute to your retirement account) without affecting benefits[^5].
If you receive SSI or Social Security Disability benefits, you automatically qualify for Utah Medicaid. If not, the State Medicaid Medical Review Board can determine your eligibility based on medical evidence[^4].
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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Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for those with disabilities. You can apply through the Utah Department of Health and Human Services. These waivers may have waiting lists and specific requirements[^4].
You must report any changes in income to the Social Security Administration and Utah Medicaid. Failing to do so can result in overpayments and penalties[^1].
Yes, children may qualify for SSI or benefits based on a parent’s Social Security record if they meet the disability criteria[^1].
Adults with a disability that began before age 22 may be eligible for Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits based on a parent’s Social Security record, if the parent is deceased or receiving benefits[^1].
