If you have a speech impairment in Kansas, you may qualify for federal and state support programs, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and the Kansas ABLE savings plan. These benefits can help with income, health care, assistive technology, and long-term financial security. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To get federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI), your speech impairment must be severe enough to prevent you from working at a substantial level for at least 12 months or result in death. For SSDI, you usually need at least 20 work credits earned in the last 10 years before your disability started, plus 40 credits overall[6]. Social Security will evaluate how your condition affects your ability to speak, understand speech, and work. If you’re under 18, SSI eligibility is based on the severity of your speech impairment and your family’s income. For adults, SSI has strict income and asset limits. If you developed your speech impairment before age 22, you may qualify as a Disabled Adult Child (DAC) based on a parent’s Social Security record[6].
In Kansas, state employees enrolled in the KBOR Mandatory Retirement Plan may also qualify for a Long-Term Disability benefit, which pays up to 60% of your monthly pay, with a minimum of $100 and a maximum of $5,000 per month[1]. But this is limited to certain public employees. For most Kansans, the main state-based support is Medicaid (KanCare), which covers low-income individuals and those with disabilities. Kansas also offers the Ticket to Work program, helping those on SSI/SSDI explore employment without losing benefits[5]. If you need assistive technology, Kansas has programs to help with loans and finding devices[2]. State-specific eligibility for Medicaid and work incentives is detailed online, but generally, you must meet income limits and have a qualifying disability.
Start by checking both federal and state options:
Applying for Disability Benefits in Kansas with a Speech Impairment:
Social Security Disability Benefits (SSI/SSDI):
Kansas-Specific Disability Programs:
Note: Kansas does not have a state-specific supplemental disability income program beyond ABLE and Medicaid/waiver services. Most residents rely on federal SSI/SSDI for cash assistance and KanCare for health care.
Kansas ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save up to $18,000 per year for qualified disability expenses while keeping eligibility for SSI and Medicaid[3]. Kansas offers a $100 state grant for new accounts opened in 2025. Open an ABLE account at savewithable.com/ks/home.html[3].
SSI has strict income and asset limits: In 2025, you generally cannot have more than $2,000 in assets ($3,000 for couples), and income limits depend on your living situation. Earnings over $1,620 per month are usually considered substantial and may affect SSI/SSDI eligibility[6]. If you are blind, the limit is higher.
Report changes in income, work status, or living situation to Social Security and KanCare immediately to avoid overpayments and benefit loss. Use our guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes for step-by-step help.
If you already get SSI, you may be automatically eligible for Kansas Medicaid (KanCare)—ask your caseworker to confirm.
Kansas is offering a $100 empowerment grant for new ABLE accounts opened in 2025. This is a great way to start saving tax-free for disability expenses without losing your benefits[3].
Yes, you can work part-time and still get SSI or SSDI, but your benefits may be reduced if your earnings are over a certain limit ($1,620/month in 2025 for most people). Kansas Ticket to Work offers free help to explore work without losing your benefits[5].
It is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. You can save money for disability expenses without losing your eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Kansas offers a $100 empowerment grant for new accounts in 2025[3].
KanCare offers several waivers for people with disabilities, including those with speech impairments. These waivers may pay for therapies, devices, or home supports. See our [Medicaid Waivers (HCBS)](/guides/medicaid-waivers) guide for details.
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at your local Social Security office. You will need your medical records and work history. For SSI, financial information is also required[6].
Yes, Assistive Technology for Kansas (ATK) helps people with disabilities get devices. The K-LOAN program offers loans for assistive technology, including speech devices[2].
Children may qualify for SSI based on disability and family income. If your family income is low, KanCare can provide health coverage and therapy services. Special education services are available through your local school district.
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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Kansas’s Working Healthy program allows people with disabilities to work and keep Medicaid coverage, even if their income increases. You must report any work income to KanCare as required[4].
It provides monthly income (up to $5,000/month) to eligible public employees with a disability that prevents them from working for more than 180 days. Most Kansans, however, are not eligible for this state-specific benefit[1].
Ticket to Work connects you with job coaches, training, and support services at no cost. It helps you return to work without risking your cash or medical benefits. Contact KANSASWORKS to get started[5].
You can appeal the decision. Contact Social Security right away to review your appeal options. Consider getting help from a legal aid group or advocate.
