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Wisconsin • Rare/Genetic
People with Prader-Willi Syndrome in Wisconsin can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Medicaid waivers. Wisconsin offers support through Aging and Disability Resource Centers, Disability Rights Wisconsin, and state agencies. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs.
Prader-Willi Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that often causes intellectual disability, obesity, and other health issues. To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must meet Social Security’s definition of disability. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources and be unable to work due to your condition. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and enough work credits. Children with Prader-Willi Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their family meets income and resource limits. Adults may qualify for SSDI if they worked and paid Social Security taxes before becoming disabled. Both programs require medical evidence showing your condition meets Social Security’s criteria for disability[8][9].
In Wisconsin, people with Prader-Willi Syndrome can access state-specific programs and services. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) administers Medicaid, which covers children and adults with disabilities. Medicaid waivers, such as the Family Care and IRIS programs, provide home and community-based services for eligible individuals. Wisconsin also offers the Medicaid Purchase Plan (MAPP) for those who do not qualify for regular Medicaid but have a disability. The state’s Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) provide benefits counseling and help with applications. Disability Rights Wisconsin offers free legal assistance and advocacy for people with disabilities, including those with Prader-Willi Syndrome[1][4][6][7].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. Wisconsin offers the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) program. You can open an ABLE account online or through a financial institution. Contributions to ABLE accounts are not taxed, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free[3].
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to pay back the overpayment. Report changes in your income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and Medicaid as soon as possible. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties. Use the SSI Income Estimator tool to help you understand how changes affect your benefits[10].
Contact your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) for free benefits counseling and help with applications. Disability Rights Wisconsin also offers free legal assistance and advocacy for people with disabilities.
Yes, Prader-Willi Syndrome can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it meets Social Security’s definition of disability. You must provide medical evidence showing your condition prevents you from working. Children may qualify for SSI if their family meets income and resource limits[8][9].
You can apply for Medicaid online through Wisconsin’s Access Wisconsin portal or at your local county office. You will need to provide proof of disability and income. The Medicaid Purchase Plan (MAPP) is also available for those who do not qualify for regular Medicaid[6][7].
Wisconsin offers Medicaid waivers such as Family Care and IRIS for home and community-based services. These programs help eligible individuals with disabilities live independently. Contact your local ADRC for help with applications[4].
Yes, Wisconsin’s Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) provide free benefits counseling and help with applications. Disability Rights Wisconsin also offers free legal assistance and advocacy for people with disabilities[1][4].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. Wisconsin offers the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) program. You can open an account online or through a financial institution[3].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized assistance.
Report changes in your income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and Medicaid as soon as possible. Use the SSI Income Estimator tool to help you understand how changes affect your benefits. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties[10].
SSI is for people with disabilities who have limited income and resources. SSDI is for people with disabilities who have a work history and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs provide monthly cash payments, but eligibility rules are different[8].
Yes, adults with Prader-Willi Syndrome can get Medicaid in Wisconsin if they meet income and resource limits. Medicaid covers health care, long-term care, and other services for eligible individuals[7].
In 2025, the federal SSI payment is $943 per month for an individual. Wisconsin does not add a state supplement to SSI. Income and resource limits apply, and you must report changes to Social Security[8].
Disability Rights Wisconsin operates a statewide helpline to help people with disabilities and their families with Medicare Part D. Call the helpline for assistance with prescription drug benefits[4].
