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Louisiana • Sensory
People with Deaf-Blindness in Louisiana can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and available support programs.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months, and meet the 20/40 work credit rule (usually, you need 20 credits in the last 10 years)[^1]. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and meet the SSA's definition of disability[^1]. Deaf-Blindness is considered a disability if it severely limits your ability to work and perform daily activities[^1].
Louisiana does not have a separate state disability program for Deaf-Blindness, but residents can access Medicaid waivers, vocational rehabilitation, and other support services. The Louisiana Department of Health offers Medicaid waivers for people with developmental disabilities, which may include Deaf-Blindness if it meets the criteria[^2]. The Governor's Office of Disability Affairs provides advocacy and information on disability rights and services[^3]. To qualify for state services, you may need to meet income and functional criteria set by each program[^2][^3].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Louisiana residents can open an ABLE account through the state's ABLE program. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like education, housing, and transportation[^8].
For SSI, the federal income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but your earnings must be below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level ($1,620 per month in 2025) to receive benefits[^5]. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size[^2].
You must report changes in income, living situation, or disability status to the SSA and Medicaid to avoid overpayments. Failure to report can result in penalties or loss of benefits. Keep records of all changes and communications with agencies[^6].
Disability Rights Louisiana offers free benefits counseling and work incentives planning for people with disabilities. Call their WIPA program for assistance.
Deaf-Blindness is a combination of hearing and vision loss that affects communication, mobility, and daily living. It can be congenital or acquired and varies in severity.
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need medical records and proof of income. Visit ssa.gov for more information[^1].
Louisiana offers Medicaid waivers for people with developmental disabilities, which may include Deaf-Blindness if it meets the criteria. These waivers provide home and community-based services[^2].
Yes, work incentives like the Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility allow you to test employment without losing benefits. Your earnings must be below the SGA level ($1,620 per month in 2025) to receive SSDI[^5].
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like education, housing, and transportation[^8].
You must report changes in income, living situation, or disability status to the SSA and Medicaid to avoid overpayments. Keep records of all changes and communications with agencies[^6].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always verify eligibility and requirements with official agencies.
Louisiana offers vocational rehabilitation, Medicaid waivers, and advocacy services through the Governor's Office of Disability Affairs and Disability Rights Louisiana[^3][7].
Yes, Louisiana Vocational Rehabilitation Services provides job training, counseling, and support for people with disabilities[^4].
The federal income limit for SSI in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size[^2].
Report changes in income, living situation, or disability status to the SSA and Medicaid. Keep records of all changes and communications with agencies[^6].
