People in Connecticut with deaf-blindness can access federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state programs such as Medicaid waivers and cash assistance. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. SSDI requires a work history. Deaf-blindness is considered a disability if it meets medical criteria and limits your ability to work. Children with qualifying disabilities may also be eligible for benefits. The SSA reviews medical evidence and work history to determine eligibility.
Learn more about federal eligibility (SSA, 2025-11-05).
Connecticut offers several programs for people with deaf-blindness. The state’s Aid to Aged, Blind, and Disabled (AABD) program provides cash assistance. Medicaid waivers, like the Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver, offer home and community-based services. The state does not count the 2025 federal COLA as income for AABD, which helps maintain eligibility and benefits. Other programs include personal services grants, family support for children, and legal aid for low-income individuals.
Learn about Connecticut disability services (CT DSS, 2025-11-05).
Apply for SSI/SSDI (SSA, 2025-11-05). Connecticut DSS Disability Services (CT DSS, 2025-11-05).
Learn about SSI vs SSDI (2025-11-05). Medicaid vs Medicare (2025-11-05).
Connecticut DSS Disability Services (CT DSS, 2025-11-05). Medicaid Waivers Guide (2025-11-05).
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Connecticut offers ABLE accounts through the state’s ABLE program. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation.
Connecticut ABLE Accounts (2025-11-05).
SSI and SSDI have strict income and asset limits. For SSI, the 2025 federal benefit rate is $943/month for an individual. Connecticut’s AABD program has its own income limits. The state does not count the 2025 federal COLA as income for AABD, which helps maintain eligibility.
SSI Income Estimator (2025-11-05).
Report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits. Keep records of all changes and communications with agencies.
Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes (2025-11-05).
Connecticut does not count the 2025 federal COLA as income for the AABD program. This helps maintain eligibility and benefits for people with disabilities.
SSI is for people with low income and few resources, while SSDI requires a work history. Both programs provide monthly payments for people with disabilities, including deaf-blindness. SSI is needs-based, SSDI is based on work credits.
Contact the Department of Social Services (DSS) regional offices. You’ll need to submit an application and meet technical, procedural, and financial requirements. Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services to avoid institutionalization.
No, Connecticut does not count the 2025 federal COLA as income for the AABD program. This helps maintain eligibility and benefits for people with disabilities.
Connecticut offers the Family Support Grant Program for children with developmental disabilities. This program provides subsidies to help families with the extra costs of raising a child with a disability.
Yes, Connecticut provides civil legal services to indigent individuals through grants to nonprofit organizations. These services cover housing, domestic relations, and other civil matters.
The State Supplement Program provides cash assistance to people who are aged, blind, or disabled. It supplements income to help maintain a standard of living set by the state legislature.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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Call the DSS Client Information Line & Benefits Center at 1-855-6-CONNECT or email them. You can request accommodations for applications, meetings, or other services.
The ABI Waiver is a Medicaid program that provides home and community-based services for adults with acquired brain injuries. It helps avoid institutionalization and covers a range of non-medical services.
Yes, both federal and state programs offer work incentives. These include continued Medicaid coverage, trial work periods, and support for employment. Check the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide for details.
Report changes to the Social Security Administration and the Department of Social Services. Keep records of all changes and communications to avoid overpayments or loss of benefits.
