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Wisconsin • Rare/Genetic
If you or a family member in Wisconsin has Williams Syndrome, you may be eligible for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and specialized waiver programs. This guide covers eligibility, application steps, and resources unique to Wisconsin.
To qualify for federal disability benefits such as SSI (Supplemental Security Income) or SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance), a person with Williams Syndrome must provide medical proof that the condition severely limits their ability to work or perform daily activities for at least one year. SSDI also requires a work history with enough Social Security credits. SSI is based on financial need and asset limits. For children, SSI payments may be possible if the condition meets Social Security’s medical criteria for disability[6][7]. See more at <internal_link anchor="SSI vs SSDI" path="/guides/ssi-ssdi"></internal_link>.
In Wisconsin, adults (18–59) with disabilities—including rare genetic conditions like Williams Syndrome—can contact local Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) for help from a Disability Benefit Specialist. These specialists assist with both public and private benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, Medicare, food assistance, and housing supports. Services are available regardless of the specific diagnosis but depend on the impact of the disability on daily living and work. For people under 18, SSI is the primary option, with the same federal rules[1][4]. If you are working, Wisconsin Retirement System disability benefits may also be available if you become disabled while employed by a WRS employer[3]. Find your county’s ADRC for personalized help.
If you or your child has Williams Syndrome, start by contacting your local Wisconsin Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) for a Disability Benefit Specialist[1][4]. These specialists help determine eligibility, gather medical records, and assist with federal (SSI/SSDI) or state applications (Medicaid, FoodShare). You can apply for SSI or SSDI online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office[5]. For Medicaid, your local ADRC can guide you through the process[5].
Most people with Williams Syndrome in Wisconsin rely on federal programs:\n\n- SSI & SSDI: Monthly cash benefits if you meet disability and income/asset rules. SSDI requires work credits. SSI is based on financial need[6][7].\n- Medicare: Available to those receiving SSDI after a waiting period. Medicare covers medical care, hospital stays, and prescription drugs.\n- Social Security Children’s Benefits: For children under 18 with significant functional limitations due to Williams Syndrome, SSI may be available[6].\n- ABLE Accounts: Tax-advantaged savings for disability-related expenses (see <internal_link anchor="ABLE Accounts" path="/guides/able-accounts"></internal_link>).\nWork incentives and reporting requirements apply. For more details, see <internal_link anchor="SSI & SSDI Work Incentives" path="/guides/work-incentives"></internal_link>.
Wisconsin offers additional supports for residents with disabilities like Williams Syndrome:\n\n- Medicaid & Waivers: Programs like Family Care, IRIS, and Medicaid Purchase Plan help cover medical, personal care, and long-term services[8]. Waivers (HCBS) allow more flexibility and community-based supports.\n- FoodShare: Nutrition assistance for low-income households.\n- Disability Benefit Specialists: Trained staff at Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) help you access benefits, complete paperwork, and appeal denials[1][4].\n- WRS Disability: For public employees who become disabled, Wisconsin Retirement System offers disability income[3].\n- Housing & Utility Assistance: Some local programs help with rent, utilities, and home modifications. ADRCs can connect you to these resources[4].
Wisconsin residents with disabilities, including Williams Syndrome, can open an ABLE account to save for disability expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other means-tested benefits. These accounts allow tax-free growth and withdrawals for qualified expenses. Learn more about how ABLE accounts work and how to open one in Wisconsin (see <internal_link anchor="ABLE Accounts" path="/guides/able-accounts"></internal_link>).
Most disability benefits have strict income and asset limits. For SSI, total countable income must be below the federal benefit rate, with similar rules for Medicaid and FoodShare. WRS disability benefits have an annual earnings limit ($20,757 in 2025); exceeding this amount can suspend benefits[3]. Always check the latest guidelines and consult your Disability Benefit Specialist for updates.
If you receive more money than you’re eligible for (an overpayment), you must report it immediately to avoid penalties or loss of benefits. File annual reporting forms for WRS disability and promptly report income or household changes to SSI/SSDI and Medicaid to prevent overpayments[3]. For guidance, see <internal_link anchor="Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes" path="/guides/overpayments-and-reporting"></internal_link>.
Williams Syndrome is a rare genetic condition with unique challenges. While not all programs in Wisconsin are diagnosis-specific, your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) can connect you with specialists familiar with rare genetic disabilities. Ask about additional resources for developmental, educational, and health needs that may not be covered by standard programs.
Many first-time SSI/SSDI applications are denied. Wisconsin’s Disability Benefit Specialists can help you file an appeal, gather stronger evidence, and represent you at hearings if needed. Don’t give up—appealing with professional support greatly increases your chances of approval.
Yes, children under 18 with Williams Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their condition severely limits daily activities and meets Social Security’s criteria. Diagnosis alone is not enough; medical and functional evidence is required[6].
No, Williams Syndrome itself does not guarantee Medicaid eligibility. You must meet financial and disability criteria. Contact your local Aging and Disability Resource Center for help applying and exploring waiver programs like Family Care or IRIS[4][8].
Disability Benefit Specialists help people ages 18–59 access benefits, complete applications, appeal denials, and connect with other supports. Their services are free and available through local Aging and Disability Resource Centers[1][4].
Yes, Wisconsin residents with disabilities, including Williams Syndrome, can open an ABLE account to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. These accounts are designed for disability-related expenses (see <internal_link anchor="ABLE Accounts" path="/guides/able-accounts"></internal_link>).
If denied, you have the right to appeal. Disability Benefit Specialists at your local ADRC can help you file an appeal and gather additional evidence to support your case[1][4].
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Wisconsin and federal disability benefits for people with Williams Syndrome. It is not legal advice. Always consult official agency staff, a Disability Benefit Specialist, or a qualified benefits attorney for your specific situation.
Medicaid is for low-income people, while Medicare is for those over 65 or with certain disabilities (after a waiting period). Some people qualify for both. For more, see <internal_link anchor="Medicaid vs Medicare" path="/guides/medicaid-vs-medicare"></internal_link>.
Yes, you may be able to work and keep some benefits using SSI and SSDI work incentives. Income limits apply—exceeding them can reduce or suspend benefits. Always report changes promptly[3].
Waiver programs like Family Care and IRIS provide extra services and supports not covered by regular Medicaid, such as personal care, community living, and respite. For more, see <internal_link anchor="Medicaid Waivers (HCBS)" path="/guides/medicaid-waivers"></internal_link>.
Report changes immediately to Social Security, Medicaid, and your Wisconsin benefit caseworker. Failure to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. See <internal_link anchor="Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes" path="/guides/overpayments-and-reporting"></internal_link> for more.
