Spinal Cord Injury Benefits in Wyoming

To get federal disability benefits for spinal cord injury, you must have a condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months. For SSDI, you need enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years). For SSI, you must have low income and limited assets. Both programs require proof of disability from medical records. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews all claims using strict rules. If you are blind, disabled, or 65+, you may qualify for SSI. SSDI is for those who paid Social Security taxes through work. Both programs have strict income and asset limits. You can apply for both at once[1][7].

Wyoming does not have its own state disability program. All disability payments come from federal SSI or SSDI. To get Medicaid, you must meet federal and state rules. Wyoming’s Medicaid for disabled workers (EID) lets employed people with disabilities keep Medicaid if they pay a monthly premium. You must be age 16–64, a resident, and meet SSA disability rules. Income must be at or below 300% of the Federal Benefit Rate. Earned income is not counted for Medicaid eligibility. Wyoming Medicaid does not cover all disabled people, only those who meet strict rules[2].

• Gather medical records for your spinal cord injury.
• Check if you meet SSI (low income) or SSDI (work history) rules.
• Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local SSA office.
• Submit all paperwork and medical proof.
• If denied, appeal within 60 days.
• Consider hiring a disability lawyer for help[4][3].

• Step 1: Get all medical records that prove your spinal cord injury and how it limits your work.
• Step 2: Decide if you qualify for SSI (low income, limited assets) or SSDI (work history, paid Social Security taxes). You can apply for both at once by checking a box on the form[1].
• Step 3: Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office. Wyoming has only 5 SSA offices, so you may need to travel[4].
• Step 4: Submit all forms and medical records. Be honest and clear in your answers.
• Step 5: Wait for a decision. Most claims are denied at first. If denied, you have 60 days to appeal. The appeal process can take up to 2 years[3][4].
• Step 6: If approved, you will get monthly payments. The SSA will review your case every 3–7 years to check if you still qualify[4].

The main federal programs for spinal cord injury in Wyoming are:

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For people with a work history who paid Social Security taxes. Payments are based on your past earnings. The average SSDI payment in Wyoming is $1,365.71 per month[3].
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For low-income people with little work history. The average SSI payment in Wyoming is $548.06 per month[3].
• Medicare: Most SSDI recipients get Medicare after 24 months of disability.
• Medicaid: Some SSI recipients also get Medicaid for health care.
• VA Benefits: Disabled veterans can get extra help from the VA, even if they get SSDI[4].

Wyoming does not have a state disability program. All disability payments come from federal SSI or SSDI. Wyoming Medicaid offers help for some disabled people:

• Employed Individuals with Disabilities (EID): Lets disabled workers keep Medicaid if they pay a monthly premium. You must be age 16–64, a resident, and meet SSA disability rules. Income must be at or below 300% of the Federal Benefit Rate. Earned income is not counted for eligibility[2].
• Medicaid Waivers: Wyoming may offer Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers for people with spinal cord injuries. These help pay for home care, therapy, and other supports. Ask your local Medicaid office for details[2].
• No State Disability Insurance: Wyoming does not have a state-run short-term or long-term disability program. All cash benefits are federal[3].

ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. Wyoming residents can open an ABLE account in any state. These accounts let you save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) for disability-related costs. Earnings grow tax-free. Use funds for housing, education, health, and more. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one[internal_link_able_accounts].

• SSI: Household income must be below $2,019 per month. Assets must be under $2,000 (or $3,000 for couples). Your home, one car, and daily living items do not count[1].
• SSDI: No strict income or asset limits, but you cannot work above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. In 2025, SGA is about $1,470 per month for non-blind people[5].
• Medicaid EID: Income must be at or below 300% of the Federal Benefit Rate. Earned income is not counted for eligibility[2].

If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to the SSA. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and fines. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Learn how to avoid overpayments and report changes[internal_link_overpayments_and_reporting].

• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Hours: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Monday–Friday

  Website

  Apply for SSI/SSDI, get help with claims, or find your local office.
• Wyoming Department of Health
  Phone: 307-777-7777

  Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday–Friday

  Website

  Ask about Medicaid, EID, and health programs for disabled residents.

• What are the main disability benefits for spinal cord injury in Wyoming?

  The main benefits are federal SSI and SSDI. Wyoming does not have a state disability program. You may also qualify for Medicaid, Medicare, or VA benefits if you meet the rules[1][3][4].

• How do I know if I qualify for SSI or SSDI with a spinal cord injury?

  For SSI, you need low income and limited assets. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. Both require proof that your spinal cord injury stops you from working for at least 12 months[1][7].

• Can I get Medicaid in Wyoming with a spinal cord injury?

  Yes, if you meet income and disability rules. Wyoming’s EID program lets disabled workers keep Medicaid if they pay a premium. Some people may also qualify for Medicaid waivers for home care[2].

• How much money can I get from SSI or SSDI in Wyoming?

  The average SSI payment in Wyoming is $548.06 per month. The average SSDI payment is $1,365.71 per month. Payments depend on your income and work history[3].

• What medical proof do I need for a spinal cord injury claim?

  You need medical records that show your spinal cord injury and how it limits your ability to work. Include doctor notes, test results, and treatment plans. The SSA will review all evidence[1][3].

• How long does it take to get approved for disability in Wyoming?

  It takes about 6.1 months for an initial decision. Most claims are denied at first. If you appeal, the process can take up to 2 years[3].