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Connecticut • Neurological/Developmental
If you have a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in Connecticut, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, plus state programs for cash, medical, and support services. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what help is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with a traumatic brain injury, you must have a medically documented condition that stops you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and enough Social Security tax payments. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have low income and few resources. In 2025, you generally cannot earn more than $1,620 per month from work (unless blind, then $2,700) and still qualify for SSDI or SSI. Children with TBI may also qualify for benefits if they meet the criteria.
Connecticut follows federal rules for SSI and SSDI, but also offers extra help through state programs. The State Supplement Program gives cash to people who are aged, blind, or disabled—including those with traumatic brain injury—to help them meet basic needs. Connecticut also has Medicaid waivers, like the Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver, which provides home and community-based services for adults with TBI who would otherwise need institutional care. To qualify for state cash or Medicaid, you must meet both federal and state income and asset limits. Legal aid and disability attorneys can help you navigate the process.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments for people with a work history who can no longer work due to a qualifying disability.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly payments for people with disabilities who have low income and few resources, regardless of work history.
Medicaid: Health coverage for people with low income and disabilities, including those with traumatic brain injury.
Medicare: Health coverage for people who receive SSDI after 24 months.
SSA: Disability Programs (2025-11-05)
Medicaid: General Info (2025-11-05)
State Supplement Program: Cash assistance for people who are aged, blind, or disabled, including those with traumatic brain injury, to help meet basic needs.
Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver: Medicaid waiver that provides home and community-based services for adults with TBI who would otherwise need institutional care. Services include personal care, respite, and more.
Personal Services Program: Grants for personal assistants to help people with severe disabilities live in the community.
Family Support Grant Program: Subsidies for families raising children with developmental disabilities, including those with TBI.
Legal Services for Indigent People: Grants for civil legal help for low-income individuals.
CT State Supplement Program (2025-11-05)
CT Medicaid Waiver: ABI Waiver (2025-11-05)
CT Medicaid State Plan Amendment (2025-11-05)
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Connecticut, you can open an ABLE account to pay for qualified disability expenses. Contributions are limited each year, and withdrawals for eligible expenses are tax-free. This can help people with traumatic brain injury manage extra costs.
For SSI in 2025, you generally cannot earn more than $1,620 per month from work (unless blind, then $2,700). For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you must not be doing substantial work. State programs may have different limits. Always check with the Connecticut Department of Social Services for the latest rules.
If your income or condition changes, you must report it to the Social Security Administration and Connecticut DSS. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Keep records of all communications and updates. If you get an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan.
Connecticut legal aid groups and disability attorneys can help you apply for benefits and appeal denials. Contact them for free or low-cost support.
Yes, if your traumatic brain injury stops you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for federal SSI or SSDI. Connecticut also offers state programs like the State Supplement and Medicaid waivers for extra help.
For SSI in 2025, you generally cannot earn more than $1,620 per month from work (unless blind, then $2,700). SSDI has no strict income limit, but you must not be doing substantial work. State programs may have different rules.
Gather medical records, check eligibility, and apply online at the SSA website or at your local SSA office. For state programs, contact the Connecticut Department of Social Services or your regional office.
The ABI Waiver is a Medicaid program that provides home and community-based services for adults with traumatic brain injury who would otherwise need institutional care. Services include personal care, respite, and more.
Yes, children with traumatic brain injury may qualify for SSI or SSDI if they meet the criteria. They may also get help through Connecticut's Family Support Grant Program.
For SSDI, yes, you need a work history. For SSI, no, but you must have low income and few resources. State programs may have different requirements.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult official sources or a qualified professional for your specific situation.
The State Supplement Program gives cash to people who are aged, blind, or disabled—including those with traumatic brain injury—to help them meet basic needs. It is in addition to federal SSI or SSDI.
You can get help from a disability attorney, legal aid group, or the Connecticut Department of Social Services. They can help you fill out forms and appeal if your application is denied.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Connecticut offers ABLE accounts for eligible residents to pay for qualified disability expenses.
If your application is denied, you can appeal. Contact a disability attorney or legal aid group for help with the appeals process. You may need to provide more medical evidence.
