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Maine • Sensory
Maine residents who are hard of hearing may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, assistive technology, and specialized programs that promote independence, education, and employment. Eligibility depends on factors like income, work history, and disability severity. This guide explains how to apply, what to expect, and where to get free help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Maine, you can apply for either Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) through the Social Security Administration. SSDI requires you to have worked at least 10 years and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and assets, regardless of work history. Both programs require proof of a medical condition (such as hearing loss) that meets Social Security’s strict standards for disability and prevents you from working at a substantial level. Hard of hearing applicants may qualify if their hearing loss is severe enough to significantly impact daily life, communication, or work—especially if additional disabilities are present. Very young children with profound hearing loss may also qualify for SSI if their family meets income requirements[1]. The application process can be lengthy, and many people need to appeal a denial before getting approved[1].
Maine does not offer a general state-run disability income program[1]. However, MainePERS provides Disability Retirement benefits to eligible public employees, including those with hearing loss, if they can no longer perform their job due to a permanent, medically diagnosed condition[2]. For the general public, state support focuses on services—not cash—such as assistive technology, advocacy, and vocational rehabilitation. Maine’s Division of Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Late Deafened provides information, advocacy, and access to communication tools for people with hearing loss[3]. To access these non-cash services, you usually need to demonstrate a hearing loss that impacts daily functioning; specific eligibility depends on the individual program.
1. Prepare Documentation: Collect medical evidence that shows your hearing loss and how it affects your ability to function and work. Include audiograms, doctor’s statements, and any records of communication difficulties at work or school.
2. Apply for Federal Benefits: You can start your SSI or SSDI application online at the Social Security website[6], by calling 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting a local Social Security office. The disability determination for Maine is made by the federal Disability Determination Services[6]. If denied, you have the right to appeal—many Mainers are approved only after appealing[1].
3. Explore State Employment & Support Services: If you are a public employee, contact MainePERS to learn about Disability Retirement[2]. For assistive technology, advocacy, or independent living services, reach out to the Division of Deafness or Disability Rights Maine[3][7]. MaineCITE can help you access assistive devices[3].
4. Apply for Medicaid (MaineCare): If you have low income, apply for MaineCare to get health coverage. This can be done online or at a local DHHS office.
5. Seek Vocational Rehabilitation: If you want to work or return to work, Maine’s Bureau of Rehabilitation Services can help with job training, supported employment, and benefits counseling[3].
6. Get Support: Advocacy groups like Disability Rights Maine offer free help with the application process, appeals, and understanding your rights[7].
Maine does not offer a state disability income program[1]. However, the state provides a variety of non-cash supports for people who are hard of hearing, including:
Maine residents with disabilities, including those who are hard of hearing, can open an ABLE account to save money without affecting eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other means-tested benefits. Earnings in the account are tax-free if used for qualified disability expenses. Learn more in our guide to ABLE accounts.
SSI has strict income and asset limits; in 2024, an individual’s countable resources must be below $2,000 (couples $3,000), and monthly income limits vary. The SSI program may reduce your benefit if you have other income. SSDI payments are based on your work history and earnings, not current income[1]. MaineCare (Medicaid) also has income limits, but some waivers and programs have higher thresholds.
If you receive too much from a disability program (an overpayment), you must repay it. Always report changes in income, living situation, or health to the Social Security Administration and MaineCare. Failure to report can result in penalties. Our guide on avoiding overpayments explains how to stay in compliance.
If you are denied benefits or confused by the process, Disability Rights Maine and MaineHealth Vocatio nal Services offer free help with applications, appeals, and understanding your rights[4][7]. Don’t give up if you are denied at first—many Mainers win benefits after appealing.
Maine provides amplified phones, captioned telephones, hearing-ear-dogs, and other assistive technology for people who are hard of hearing. Contact the Division of Deafness or MaineCITE to learn more about available devices and services[3].
You may be able to work and still keep some benefits. MaineHealth’s Benefits Counseling Services can explain how earnings affect SSI, SSDI, and MaineCare, and help you take advantage of work incentives[4].
No, Maine does not offer a state-funded disability income program for the general public. However, state resources focus on services like assistive technology, advocacy, and independent living, rather than monthly cash payments[1][3].
Yes, children with significant hearing loss may qualify for SSI if their family’s income and assets are within program limits and their disability meets Social Security’s standards[1].
Contact MaineCITE, the state’s assistive technology program, for help accessing devices such as amplified phones, captioned telephones, and hearing aids[3].
SSI is for people with limited income and assets, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those who have worked long enough to pay into Social Security. Both require proof of a severe disability that prevents work[1]. See our SSI vs SSDI guide for details.
You have the right to appeal a denial. Many Mainers get approved after one or more appeals. Free help is available from advocacy organizations like Disability Rights Maine[1][7].
Yes, the Section 811 PRA program offers affordable, accessible housing with support services for people with disabilities, including those who are hard of hearing. Apply through Maine Housing and the Office of Aging and Disability Services[5].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Benefits rules change often. Always check with official agencies or a qualified benefits counselor for the most current information.
MaineCare (Medicaid) covers some adults with low income and all children with disabilities. While there are waivers, eligibility is based on need and diagnosis. Check with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services for current waiver offerings. Our Medicaid waivers guide has more details.
Yes, but earning too much may affect your benefits. Special rules—called work incentives—allow some people to keep benefits and health coverage while working. MaineHealth’s vocational services can help you understand these rules[4]. See our work incentives guide for details.
The Division of Deafness provides information, advocacy, and referral services. Call Maine’s Department of Health and Human Services or visit their website for contact details and to learn about available resources[3].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI, MaineCare, or other benefits. Funds can be used for qualifying disability expenses. Our ABLE account guide explains how to open one.
