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Illinois • Sensory
People who are Deaf in Illinois can access federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and work support programs. These programs help cover healthcare, income, and employment needs.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must meet Social Security's definition of disability. For Deafness, this means your hearing loss is severe enough to prevent you from working in any job for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses medical evidence and work history to decide eligibility. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your income and resources must be below certain limits. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain period. Both programs have strict rules about how much you can earn while receiving benefits. In 2025, the SSI payment limit is $967 per month for an individual and $1,450 for a couple. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind beneficiaries and $2,700 for blind beneficiaries. If you earn more than these amounts, your benefits may be reduced or stopped.
[Source: SSA.gov, Illinois Legal Aid](https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/qualify.html, https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/disabilities-guidebook-social-security-disability-benefits, https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10026.pdf)
In Illinois, Deaf individuals can qualify for Medicaid, which covers healthcare services, including hearing aids and sign language interpreters. The Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD) program allows Deaf workers aged 16-64 to keep Medicaid coverage while earning up to $4,393 per month (single) or $5,962 per month (couple). HBWD also allows up to $25,000 in assets, which is higher than most Medicaid programs. Illinois also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can provide additional support for Deaf individuals. To qualify for these programs, you must meet income and disability requirements. The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) manages these programs and can help you apply.
[Source: HFS.Illinois.gov, Illinois Legal Aid](https://hfs.illinois.gov/medicalprograms/hbwd.html, https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/disabilities-guidebook-social-security-disability-benefits, https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/qualify.html)
[Source: SSA.gov, HFS.Illinois.gov, Illinois Legal Aid](https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/qualify.html, https://hfs.illinois.gov/medicalprograms/hbwd.html, https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/disabilities-guidebook-social-security-disability-benefits)
[Source: SSA.gov, Medicare.gov](https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/qualify.html, https://www.medicare.gov/)
[Source: HFS.Illinois.gov, Illinois Legal Aid, Illinois ABLE](https://hfs.illinois.gov/medicalprograms/hbwd.html, https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/disabilities-guidebook-social-security-disability-benefits, https://il.able.com/)
Illinois ABLE accounts let Deaf individuals save money for qualified expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $17,000 per year, and the account grows tax-free. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other needs. To open an ABLE account, visit the Illinois ABLE website or contact a local financial advisor.
[Source: SSA.gov, HFS.Illinois.gov, Illinois Legal Aid](https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/qualify.html, https://hfs.illinois.gov/medicalprograms/hbwd.html, https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/disabilities-guidebook-social-security-disability-benefits)
It is important to report any changes in income, health, or living situation to the Social Security Administration and Illinois Department of Human Services. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments, which you may have to repay. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact the agency immediately to discuss repayment options. You can also seek help from a local advocacy group or legal aid.
[Source: Illinois Legal Aid, SSA.gov](https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/disabilities-guidebook-social-security-disability-benefits, https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/qualify.html)
Contact the Illinois Department of Human Services at 1-800-843-6154 for help with Medicaid or HBWD applications. For SSI/SSDI, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213.
Deaf individuals in Illinois can apply for SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Medicare. These programs provide monthly payments and health coverage for those who meet eligibility requirements.
You can apply for Medicaid online at the Illinois Department of Human Services website, by phone at 1-800-843-6154, or in person at a local office. You will need to provide proof of income and disability.
Yes, you can work and receive disability benefits in Illinois. The Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD) program allows Deaf workers to keep Medicaid coverage while earning up to $4,393 per month (single) or $5,962 per month (couple).
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for Deaf individuals in 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind beneficiaries and $2,700 per month for blind beneficiaries. Earning above these limits may affect your benefits.
Report changes in income or health to the Social Security Administration and Illinois Department of Human Services as soon as possible. You can do this online, by phone, or in person. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for Deaf individuals. It lets you save money for qualified expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $17,000 per year.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult official sources or a benefits expert for personalized advice.
Yes, Medicaid in Illinois covers hearing aids for eligible Deaf individuals. You may need to meet certain criteria and get prior authorization from your Medicaid provider.
Yes, Medicaid in Illinois can cover sign language interpreters for medical appointments and other covered services. Contact your Medicaid provider for details.
SSI is for low-income individuals with disabilities, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs provide monthly payments, but eligibility rules are different.
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision by contacting the Social Security Administration or Illinois Department of Human Services. You may also seek help from a local advocacy group or legal aid.
