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Illinois • Sensory
If you are Hard of Hearing in Illinois, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state programs for healthcare, transportation, and financial support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available in 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, have a disability that meets Social Security’s strict definition, and have enough work credits. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), eligibility is based on limited income and resources, and you must meet the disability criteria. In 2025, the SGA (Substantial Gainful Activity) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. If you are Hard of Hearing, your condition must cause marked and severe functional limitations and last at least 12 months or be expected to result in death. Social Security does not pay for partial or short-term disabilities [1].
In Illinois, Hard of Hearing individuals may qualify for additional state benefits beyond federal programs. These include Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, transportation assistance for disabled adults, and programs for assistive technology. Eligibility for state programs often depends on income, age, and functional limitations. Some programs, like the Benefit Access Program, offer free transit for disabled individuals aged 16 and older. Illinois also has resources for family support and advocacy, such as The Arc of Illinois and Illinois Life Span, which can help connect you to services and funding [3][6][9].
IL ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. You can use funds for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and assistive technology. Contributions are limited, and there are annual caps on total savings [8].
You must report changes in income, work, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in reduced benefits or repayment. Use the SSA’s online portal or call 1-800-772-1213 to report changes. For state programs, contact IDHS or your caseworker [7].
Contact the Illinois Department of Human Services or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 for help with your application.
Yes, if your hearing loss causes marked and severe functional limitations and you meet income and resource limits. SSI provides monthly cash payments for eligible individuals in Illinois [7].
The SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals in 2025. If you earn more, you may lose SSI or SSDI benefits [2].
Apply online at SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. For state programs, contact Illinois Department of Human Services or local agencies [4].
Illinois offers Medicaid waivers, free transit, assistive technology funds, and family support programs. Contact IDHS or advocacy groups for details [3][6][9].
Yes, but there are limits. Work incentives let you keep some benefits while working. Report any changes to avoid overpayments [4].
An IL ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses [8].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Most SSI recipients in Illinois automatically qualify for Medicaid. Medicaid covers healthcare costs for low-income individuals with disabilities [4].
Yes, the Benefit Access Program offers free transit for disabled individuals aged 16+ in Illinois. Income limits apply [6].
If your hearing loss does not meet SSI criteria, you may still qualify for state programs or work incentives. Contact IDHS or advocacy groups for help [3][4].
Report changes in income, work, or living situation to SSA or IDHS. Use the online portal or call 1-800-772-1213 to avoid overpayments [7].
