Disability Resources in New Mexico

Last updated September 6, 2026

New Mexico residents living with physical, intellectual, developmental, or psychiatric disabilities have access to a range of federal and state-administered programs that can help cover medical costs, daily living support, food, housing, and employment. Navigating these systems can feel overwhelming, but starting with a single call to 2-1-1 New Mexico (dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211) connects you with trained specialists who can identify programs you qualify for and help you take the next step.

The New Mexico Human Services Department (HSD) and the New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) are the two primary state agencies overseeing disability-related benefits. Together they administer Medicaid, home- and community-based waiver services, and supports for older adults and people with disabilities who want to remain in their own homes. Most applications can be started online at yes.state.nm.us or in person at your local county HSD office.

If you are in a crisis—mental health emergency, domestic violence situation, or at risk of homelessness—immediate help is available around the clock. Call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, 1-800-799-7233 for the National Domestic Violence Hotline, or reach out to your local Continuum of Care through 2-1-1 if you need emergency shelter. Veterans should contact the VA's national crisis line by dialing 988 and pressing 1.

Key programs in New Mexico

New Mexico Medicaid (including Centennial Care)

Covers doctor visits, prescriptions, behavioral health services, long-term care, and home- and community-based supports for eligible low-income residents with disabilities. Centennial Care is New Mexico's managed care Medicaid program and includes waiver services that fund personal care attendants, day habilitation, and supported employment for people with qualifying disabilities.

How to access: Apply online at yes.state.nm.us, call the HSD Income Support Division at 1-800-283-4465, or visit a local county HSD office. Disability determinations for non-SSI/SSDI applicants may require additional documentation from your medical provider.

New Mexico Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (NMVR)

Helps people with physical, cognitive, sensory, or psychiatric disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain employment. Services can include vocational assessment, job training, assistive technology, and college tuition support.

How to access: Contact NMVR through the New Mexico Public Education Department (PED) at 1-800-224-7005 or visit ped.state.nm.us/ped/VR.html to find the nearest field office. A counselor will complete an eligibility determination and develop an Individualized Plan for Employment with you.

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) – New Mexico HSD

Provides monthly electronic food benefits to low-income households, including those where an adult has a disability. People receiving SSI may have expedited eligibility, and certain disability-related deductions can increase the benefit amount.

How to access: Apply online at yes.state.nm.us, call 1-800-283-4465, or visit your county HSD Income Support Division office. You can also ask 2-1-1 New Mexico to help you locate the nearest office or community organization that assists with applications.

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) – New Mexico

Helps low-income households, including people with disabilities on fixed incomes, pay heating and cooling costs and utility bills to prevent shutoffs. Emergency energy assistance may also be available.

How to access: In New Mexico, LIHEAP is administered through local Community Action Agencies. Call 2-1-1 New Mexico to find the agency serving your county, or contact the New Mexico Human Services Department for current program-year information and application periods.

HUD-Funded Housing & Section 8 / Housing Choice Voucher Program

Provides rental assistance to very low-income people with disabilities. HUD also funds accessible housing units and supportive housing through local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) and the Continuum of Care network. People with disabilities may receive a preference or accessible unit accommodations.

How to access: Contact your local Public Housing Authority—New Mexico has multiple PHAs including the Albuquerque Housing Authority and others in smaller communities. Find your local PHA at hud.gov/topics/rental_assistance or call 2-1-1 New Mexico for a referral. Waitlists are common; apply as early as possible.

Disability Resources resources for New Mexico

Administration for Community Living (ACL)

Nationwide

Federal programs and resources supporting people with disabilities and older adults.

Visit

Social Security Disability (SSA)

Nationwide

Apply for and manage Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and SSI benefits.

1-800-772-1213
Visit

The Arc

Nationwide

Advocacy and local chapter services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Visit
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