People with Williams Syndrome in Utah may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available in 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. For adults, this means a medical condition that prevents substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Children with Williams Syndrome may qualify if the condition severely limits their activities.
SSDI requires work credits earned through employment. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs use the same medical criteria.
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 these amounts may affect eligibility for SSDI or SSI cash benefits [2].
Children with Williams Syndrome may qualify for benefits if their condition meets SSA’s childhood disability criteria. Adults with disabilities that began before age 22 may qualify for Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits based on a parent’s work record [4].
In Utah, individuals with Williams Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid through the Aged, Blind or Disabled (ABD) program if they receive SSI or Social Security Disability benefits. If not, the State Medicaid Medical Review Board can make a disability determination based on medical evidence, without considering work status [3].
Utah also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can provide support for people with disabilities to live independently. These waivers may cover services like personal care, respite care, and supported employment.
ABLE accounts are available in Utah for people with disabilities that began before age 26. These accounts allow tax-advantaged savings for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility [5].
Utah’s Department of Workforce Services provides vocational rehabilitation services to help people with disabilities find and keep jobs. These services can include job training, counseling, and support for self-employment [2].
Each step may require follow-up and additional documentation. Keep copies of all applications and correspondence [2][3][4][5].
ABLE accounts are available in Utah for people with disabilities that began before age 26. These accounts allow tax-advantaged savings for disability-related expenses. Contributions do not affect SSI or Medicaid eligibility as long as the account balance stays below $100,000. In 2025, the annual contribution limit is $19,000, or $34,650 if you work and your employer does not contribute to your retirement account [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 these amounts may affect eligibility for SSDI or SSI cash benefits. For SSI, the income limit is lower and varies based on living situation and other factors. Medicaid income limits also vary by program and household size [2][4].
It is important to report any changes in income, work status, or living situation to SSA and Medicaid. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which must be repaid. Overpayments can occur if you earn above the SGA limit or if your income changes. Reporting changes promptly helps avoid penalties and ensures continued eligibility [2].
Contact Utah’s Disability Law Center or your local Social Security office for free help with applications and appeals.
Yes, if Williams Syndrome causes severe limitations that meet SSA’s definition of disability. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, while SSDI requires work credits. Both programs use the same medical criteria [4].
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 these amounts may affect eligibility for SSDI or SSI cash benefits [2][4].
If you receive SSI or SSDI, you may automatically qualify for Medicaid. If not, apply through the Utah Department of Health and Human Services. The State Medicaid Medical Review Board can make a disability determination based on medical evidence [3].
Yes, Utah offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS). These waivers can provide personal care, respite care, supported employment, and more for people with disabilities [3].
Yes, but earning above the SGA limit may affect your benefits. Work incentives and reporting rules help protect benefits while working. Report any changes in income or work status to avoid overpayments [2].
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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ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Utah, the annual contribution limit is $19,000, or $34,650 if you work and your employer does not contribute to your retirement account [5].
Report any changes in income, work status, or living situation to SSA and Medicaid. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which must be repaid. Reporting changes promptly helps avoid penalties and ensures continued eligibility [2].
Utah’s Department of Workforce Services provides vocational rehabilitation services, including job training, counseling, and support for self-employment. These services help people with disabilities find and keep jobs [2].
Yes, children with Williams Syndrome may qualify for SSI or SSDI if their condition meets SSA’s childhood disability criteria. Adults with disabilities that began before age 22 may qualify for Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits based on a parent’s work record [4].
If you earn above the SGA limit, your cash benefits may be suspended or terminated. However, you may be able to restart benefits if your earnings drop below the limit and you continue to have a disability [2].
