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Maine • Sensory
Maine residents with deaf-blindness can access federal disability programs like SSI and SSDI, as well as state-specific services for communication, independent living, and housing. There is no state-run disability income program, but Maine offers targeted support for sensory disabilities and connects people to federal benefits and advocacy.
People with deaf-blindness in Maine may qualify for federal disability programs if they meet medical and financial criteria.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. You need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. SSDI payments are based on your work history and earnings. If approved, you get Medicare after 24 months.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For people with limited income and assets, including those who have never worked. SSI is based on financial need, not work history. If approved, you get Medicaid coverage.
Disabled Adult Child (DAC): Adults with a disability that began before age 22 may get benefits based on a parent’s Social Security record if the parent is retired, disabled, or deceased.
Children with Disabilities: Children under 18 with deaf-blindness may qualify for SSI if family income and assets are low. Benefits can continue into adulthood if the disability meets adult standards.
All programs require a medical determination that your condition prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
Maine does not have a state disability income program, but offers targeted services for people who are deaf-blind.
Division of Deafness (DoD): Provides advocacy, information, legal interpreting, telecommunications devices, and hearing-ear-dog registration for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Many services are available to people who are deaf-blind.
Independent Living Services (ILS) Program: Helps people with significant disabilities, including deaf-blindness, live independently. Services include advocacy, skills training, and support to access community resources.
Disability Rights Center: Offers protection and advocacy for people with disabilities, including those who are deaf-blind. They provide direct assistance, information, and training.
MaineCITE Assistive Technology: Helps make assistive technology more available to people with disabilities, including those who are deaf-blind.
Step 1: Gather Documentation
Step 2: Apply for Federal Benefits
Step 3: Apply for State Services
Step 4: Apply for Housing Assistance
Step 5: Follow Up and Appeal
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Maine residents can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE program. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other disability-related expenses. Learn more about Maine ABLE accounts
SSI has strict income and asset limits. In 2025, the federal SSI limit is $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple. SSDI has no income limit, but you must not be able to do substantial work. Work incentives let you keep some benefits while you work. Use the SSI Income Estimator
If your income or situation changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you work, get other benefits, or your disability improves. Report changes to Social Security and Maine agencies as soon as possible. Learn how to avoid overpayments and what to do if you get an overpayment notice.
Contact Disability Rights Maine or the Division of Deafness for free help with applications, communication, and advocacy.
You may qualify for SSI or SSDI if your deaf-blindness prevents you from working. SSI is for people with low income and assets. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs require a medical determination that your condition is severe and long-term.
Maine does not have a state disability income program. Instead, people with deaf-blindness can access federal programs and state services for communication, independent living, and advocacy. These services help with daily living and connecting to benefits.
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. Request accommodations for the application process if you need help with communication. Gather medical records and proof of income before you apply.
Maine offers advocacy, communication support, independent living services, and assistive technology through the Division of Deafness, Disability Rights Center, MaineCITE, and the Independent Living Services Program. These services help with daily living and connecting to benefits.
Yes, MaineHousing’s Section 811 PRA program provides permanent supportive housing for extremely low-income people with disabilities, including those who are deaf-blind. Contact MaineHousing to apply for the waitlist.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making decisions about benefits.
Maine State Library Outreach Services: Offers Talking Books, large print, descriptive video, and Books By Mail for people with sensory disabilities.
MaineHousing Section 811 PRA: Provides permanent supportive housing for extremely low-income people with disabilities, including those who are deaf-blind.
State programs focus on communication, independent living, and advocacy, not direct cash benefits.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Maine residents can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE program. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like housing, education, and transportation.
Work incentives let you keep some SSI or SSDI benefits while you work. Rules are different for SSI and SSDI. If you get both, both sets of rules apply. Community Work Incentives Coordinators can help you understand how working affects your benefits.
If your application is denied, you can appeal. Most people need to appeal at least once. Ask for help from Disability Rights Maine or a Community Work Incentives Coordinator if you need support with the appeal process.
Yes, children under 18 with deaf-blindness may qualify for SSI if family income and assets are low. Benefits can continue into adulthood if the disability meets adult standards. Children may also qualify for Medicaid waivers and other state services.
Contact Maine’s Division of Deafness for advocacy, information, legal interpreting, and telecommunications devices. Many services are available to people who are deaf-blind. The Disability Rights Center also offers communication support.
