People in Indiana with intellectual disability may qualify for federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key 2025 updates.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked enough years and paid Social Security taxes. SSDI pays benefits to adults whose disability began before age 22, including those with intellectual disability. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require a medically determinable impairment that prevents substantial gainful activity for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration uses a strict definition of disability, considering age, education, and work experience. For children, SSI may be available if the disability began before age 18 and meets specific criteria [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
In Indiana, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by the Indiana Disability Determination Bureau (DDB) in partnership with the Social Security Administration. The DDB follows federal rules but also refers adults to Vocational Rehabilitation Services through the Ticket to Work program. Indiana’s Medicaid waiver programs, such as the Community Integration Waiver, provide home and community-based services for people with intellectual disability. These waivers help with daily living, employment, and community participation. To qualify, you must meet both federal disability criteria and Indiana’s financial and functional requirements. Children with intellectual disability may also qualify for SSI and Medicaid [in.gov, 2025-11-05].
ABLE accounts allow people with intellectual disability to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Indiana residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses. Contributions are limited, and there are annual and lifetime caps. For more information, visit the Indiana ABLE account page [in.gov, 2025-11-05].
If your income or resources change, you must report it to the Social Security Administration to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands and loss of benefits. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. For SSI, report changes in income, resources, living arrangements, and marital status. For SSDI, report changes in work activity and earnings. For more information, see the guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes [in.gov, 2025-11-05].
Contact the Indiana Disability Determination Bureau at 800-622-4968 for help with your disability claim. Local SSA offices can also assist with applications and questions.
Intellectual disability is a condition that begins before age 22 and involves significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. The Social Security Administration uses specific criteria to determine if a person meets the definition for benefits [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
Yes, children with intellectual disability may qualify for SSI if the disability began before age 18 and meets the SSA’s criteria. The family’s income and resources must also be within limits [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
For 2025, the SGA limit is expected to be $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,550 for blind individuals. Earning above these limits may affect SSDI benefits [disabilitylawgroup.com, 2025-11-05].
To apply for Medicaid waivers in Indiana, contact the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration or your local Area Agency on Aging and Disability. You must meet both disability and financial criteria [in.gov, 2025-11-05].
The Ticket to Work program helps people with disabilities return to work while keeping their benefits. It provides vocational rehabilitation, job training, and support services [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
Yes, if you meet the eligibility requirements for both programs, you can receive concurrent benefits. The Social Security Administration will determine your eligibility after you apply [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
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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An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Indiana residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program [in.gov, 2025-11-05].
The process can take 6–8 months. For some conditions, immediate SSI payments may be made while the decision is pending [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
SSDI is based on work history and Social Security taxes paid. SSI is based on financial need and does not require a work history. Both programs provide benefits for people with disabilities [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
You must report changes in income or resources to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands and loss of benefits [in.gov, 2025-11-05].
