Deafness Benefits in Hawaii

To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI), you must have a medical condition—such as deafness—that meets the Social Security Administration’s strict definition of disability. SSI is for people with limited income and resources; SSDI requires enough work credits. You may qualify for one or both programs. Learn more at our guide to SSI vs SSDI.

Hawaii has no state-administered cash benefit specifically for Deafness, but offers Medicaid waivers (HCBS) for home and community supports. Eligibility is based on your functional needs and income. Hawaii also provides Temporary Disability Insurance for those who cannot work due to illness or injury, but this is not specific to Deafness. To learn more about Medicaid waivers, see Medicaid Waivers (HCBS).

To apply for Hawaii disability and Deafness benefits, start with Social Security (SSA) for SSI/SSDI. Gather medical records, proof of income, and contact information. Apply online at ssa.gov or call your local SSA office. For state benefits, contact the Hawaii Department of Human Services for Medicaid and the Disability Compensation Division for TDI.

1. Federal benefits (SSI/SSDI): Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. You’ll need proof of disability, medical records, work history, and financial documents. Consider using the SSI Income Estimator if you’re applying for SSI.
2. State Medicaid: Contact the Hawaii Department of Human Services for Medicaid eligibility and application (Med-QUEST Division). Deafness-related supports (like communication devices) may be available under individualized plans. Request a Medicaid waiver assessment if you need home or community-based services.
3. Hawaii TDI: If you can’t work due to illness or injury (including certain complications of Deafness), file a claim with your employer or insurance carrier within 90 days of disability. Keep all pay stubs and medical documentation. Appeals must be filed within 20 days of a denial.
4. ABLE Accounts: If you qualify for SSI/SSDI, open a Hawaii ABLE account to save for disability expenses without losing benefit eligibility. Learn more at ABLE Accounts.
5. Report Changes: Inform SSA, Medicaid, and other programs if your income, living situation, or disability status changes—this helps avoid overpayments. See Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes for details.

• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Provides monthly cash payments to low-income children and adults with disabilities, including Deafness, who meet strict income and asset limits.
• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): Offers monthly benefits to adults with a work history who have paid into Social Security and now have a qualifying disability.
• Medicare: After 24 months on SSDI, you’ll qualify for Medicare health coverage.
• SNAP: You may also qualify for food assistance if you receive SSI or have low income.

• Hawaii Medicaid (Med-QUEST): Covers health care, including hearing aids, communication devices, and interpreter services for those who qualify. Some services may depend on your individualized care plan.
• HCBS Waivers: Hawaii offers Home and Community-Based Services waivers that may cover personal care, respite, and other supports. While not Deafness-specific, you can request an assessment to determine if you qualify.
• Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI): Offers partial wage replacement for up to 26 weeks if you’re unable to work due to a non-work-related illness or injury. Deafness alone does not qualify unless complications prevent work.
• ABLE Accounts: Hawaii residents can use the national ABLE program to save for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility--see ABLE Accounts.

Hawaii does not have its own ABLE program, but residents can use any state’s national ABLE plan. These accounts let you save up to $100,000 without affecting your SSI eligibility, and funds can pay for qualified disability expenses. Learn more at ABLE Accounts.

For SSI (2025), income limits are strict—$943/month for an individual, $1,415/month for a couple. Hawaii Medicaid (Med-QUEST) has higher income limits, especially for aged, blind, and disabled individuals. Earnings from work may affect benefits, but SSI and SSDI have special rules—see SSI & SSDI Work Incentives.

Report changes in your income, living situation, or medical condition to SSA and Medicaid within 10 days to avoid overpayments. If you’re overpaid, you may have to repay the money. Appeal if you believe the decision is wrong. See Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes for details.

• What federal benefits can help me if I am Deaf in Hawaii?

  You may be eligible for SSI (Supplemental Security Income) if you have limited income, or SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) if you have a work history. Both programs help with basic living expenses. You may also qualify for SNAP (food assistance) and, after two years on SSDI, Medicare.

• Does Hawaii have a state program just for Deaf people?

  No, Hawaii does not have a state-administered cash benefit or waiver program exclusively for Deafness. Supports like Medicaid and HCBS waivers are based on functional needs, not diagnosis alone. You can ask for communication supports as part of your individualized Medicaid plan.

• Can I get help paying for hearing aids or communication devices in Hawaii?

  Hawaii Medicaid (Med-QUEST) may cover medically necessary hearing aids and communication devices for eligible members. Coverage depends on your plan and medical justification. Work with your doctor to submit documentation.

• How do ABLE accounts help me in Hawaii?

  ABLE accounts let you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. While Hawaii does not have a state ABLE plan, you can enroll in any national ABLE program. See [ABLE Accounts](/guides/able-accounts) for details.

• What is Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), and does Deafness qualify?

  TDI provides partial wage replacement for up to 26 weeks if you are unable to work due to non-work-related illness or injury. Deafness alone does not qualify, but complications—such as severe vertigo or other medical conditions—might. Always file a claim with your employer or insurer within 90 days.