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Arkansas • Sensory
People who are deaf in Arkansas may qualify for federal disability programs like SSI and SSDI, as well as state-specific support. Eligibility depends on medical criteria, work history, and income. This guide explains how to apply, what benefits are available, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Arkansas, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a list of impairments, including hearing loss, to determine eligibility. If your deafness is severe enough to meet or equal the criteria in the SSA’s Blue Book, you may qualify for benefits. Even if your condition is not listed, you may still qualify if you can prove it severely limits your ability to work. You must also meet work history requirements for SSDI or income/resource limits for SSI. In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) and may disqualify you from benefits[1].
In Arkansas, eligibility for disability benefits is based on federal rules, but state agencies may offer additional support. For example, Arkansas provides Medicaid waivers for people with developmental disabilities, which may include those who are deaf and have other qualifying conditions. The state also offers ABLE accounts, which allow individuals with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits. To qualify for state-specific programs, you may need to meet additional criteria, such as residency and income limits. Arkansas does not have a separate state disability program, so most benefits are provided through federal programs like SSI and SSDI[2].
Arkansas residents with disabilities can open ABLE accounts to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits. Contributions are tax-free, and funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, transportation, and personal support services. To open an ABLE account, you must have a disability that began before age 26 and meet other eligibility criteria. Visit the ABLE National Resource Center for more information[7].
In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for non-blind individuals is $1,620 per month. Earning more than this amount may affect your eligibility for disability benefits. For blind individuals, the SGA limit is $2,700 per month. These limits are set by the Social Security Administration and are adjusted annually for inflation[8].
If your condition or income changes, you must report it to the Social Security Administration to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in penalties or the need to repay benefits. Keep records of all changes and report them as soon as possible. For more information, see the SSA’s guide on reporting changes[9].
Contact a disability attorney or advocate for help with your application. Arkansas also has organizations that provide support and resources for people with disabilities.
Yes, deafness can qualify for disability benefits in Arkansas if it prevents you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. You must meet the medical criteria set by the Social Security Administration and, for SSDI, have a qualifying work history[1].
The maximum SSDI benefit in Arkansas in 2025 is $4,018 per month. Most people receive less, based on their work history and earnings[2].
The maximum SSI benefit in Arkansas in 2025 is $967 per month for an individual and $1,450 for a couple. The actual amount you receive may be less, depending on your income and resources[2].
In 2025, you can earn up to $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) and still qualify for disability benefits. Earning more than this amount may affect your eligibility[3].
Arkansas does not have a separate state disability program, but it offers Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts for people with disabilities. These programs provide additional support for those who qualify[4].
You can apply for disability benefits in Arkansas online at the SSA website, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. You will need medical records and information about your work history and income[5].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
You will need medical records that show your deafness and how it affects your ability to work. This may include audiograms, doctor’s notes, and records of treatments[6].
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. In 2025, this is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals[3].
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, and personal support services[7].
You can get help with your disability application from a disability attorney, advocate, or local SSA office. Arkansas also has organizations that provide support and resources for people with disabilities[8].
