If you are deaf or have hearing loss in Connecticut, you may qualify for federal Social Security benefits (SSI/SSDI), state cash assistance, Medicaid, and specialized waivers. This guide explains federal and state eligibility, application steps, available programs, and Connecticut-specific resources.
To qualify for federal disability benefits for deafness in Connecticut, you must show your hearing loss prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death[1]. For SSDI, you need enough work credits from Social Security taxes, usually based on 5 years of work in the last 10[1][5]. For SSI, there are strict income and asset limits, and no work history is required. You must also earn less than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,620 per month in 2025 for non-blind disabilities[1]. The Social Security Administration uses specific medical criteria to evaluate hearing loss; your audiometric test results, work history, and daily functioning are all considered.
Connecticut’s State Supplement Program for the Aged, Blind, or Disabled provides extra cash assistance to those with limited income and assets—individuals must have less than $1,600 in assets ($2,400 for couples)[2]. You must already receive some income, such as SSI, SSDI, or Veterans benefits[2]. Connecticut also administers Medicaid for people with disabilities, and eligibility often relies on your enrollment in SSI or other programs. The state’s Personal Services Program and Family Support Grant Program can help those with severe disabilities—including deafness—access care at home and avoid institutionalization[4]. The Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver is a Medicaid program for adults aged 18–64 with brain injuries, not developmental disabilities[4].
For people with deafness, the main federal programs are:
SSA evaluates deafness under specific criteria for hearing loss. Guidelines emphasize audiometric thresholds and functional limitations.
Connecticut offers several state-specific programs for people with disabilities, including deafness:
For most state programs, you must first apply for federal SSI/SSDI. Connecticut’s Department of Social Services (DSS) can help you navigate benefits, waivers, and waivers for home- and community-based services. Visit their website or call for details.
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without affecting eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other means-tested programs. Connecticut residents can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE program. See our [ABLE Accounts] guide for details.
For SSI and the State Supplement, strict income and asset rules apply. In 2025, the SSI substantial gainful activity limit is $1,620/month for non-blind disabilities, including deafness[1]. The Connecticut State Supplement has low asset ceilings: $1,600 for an individual, $2,400 for a couple[2]. Check our [SSI Income Estimator] tool for up-to-date thresholds.
If your income or situation changes, you must report it to SSA or DSS to avoid overpayments. Failing to report can result in penalties or loss of benefits. See our [Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes] guide for steps to protect your benefits.
Have questions? Call Connecticut DSS at 1-855-626-6632 or visit your local DSS office. For SSI/SSDI, visit ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213.
If your application is denied, consider reaching out to a disability attorney. Legal aid groups in Connecticut can help with appeals and understanding your rights.
A federal COLA increase will not count as income for Connecticut’s State Supplement Program in 2025, so your benefits won’t decrease because of a COLA this year[3].
Connecticut offers the State Supplement for the Aged, Blind, or Disabled, which includes people with severe hearing loss, and various Medicaid programs. While there is no program exclusively for deafness, people with deafness can access general disability supports[2][4].
SSA uses strict criteria for hearing loss. You must provide audiometric test results showing significant hearing loss, and demonstrate it prevents you from working for at least 12 months. A doctor’s evaluation and records of how deafness affects daily life are essential[1].
You can earn up to $1,620/month in 2025 for non-blind disabilities (including deafness) and still qualify for SSDI/SSI, but earning more may affect your eligibility[1]. Connecticut’s State Supplement also has income limits[2]. See our [SSI & SSDI Work Incentives] guide for more.
If denied, you can appeal. Many people are approved after appeal with help from a lawyer familiar with disability law in Connecticut[1].
Connecticut Medicaid may cover hearing aids for eligible recipients. Coverage and requirements change, so contact DSS or review your Medicaid plan for details.
Apply at a DSS office, online at connect.ct.gov, or by phone at 1-855-626-6632[2]. You must have another source of income, such as SSI, SSDI, or Veterans benefits.
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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Need help? Contact Connecticut’s Client Information Line at 1-855-626-6632[4][6].
Programs include Medicaid waivers, personal care assistance, family support grants, and legal aid. Connecticut’s Department of Social Services can connect you to resources based on your needs[4].
In 2025, Connecticut will disregard the federal cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) when calculating State Supplement eligibility, so a COLA will not count as new income for that program[3].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities—including deafness—to save money without losing benefits. Earnings and withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free. See our [ABLE Accounts] guide.
Call the DSS Client Information Line at 1-855-626-6632 for help applying for benefits, Medicaid, and state programs. Nonprofit legal aid may also help with appeals or questions[4][6].
