People who are deaf in Massachusetts may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. Eligibility depends on work history, income, resources, and medical documentation. This guide explains how to apply, what benefits are available, and how to manage your payments.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. For both programs, your deafness must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses medical evidence and job history to decide eligibility. In 2025, the SGA limit for non-blind individuals is $1,620 per month, and for blind individuals, it is $2,700 per month. If you are deaf but not blind, your earnings must be below the non-blind SGA limit to qualify for SSDI or SSI[1][4].
In Massachusetts, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by MassAbility Disability Determination Services (DDS). DDS reviews your medical records, job history, education, and other information to decide if you qualify for SSDI or SSI. For SSI, Massachusetts pays a small state supplement on top of the federal benefit. The maximum 2025 SSI payment is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a married couple. Income, living arrangements, and marital status affect your payment amount. If you are deaf, your eligibility is based on the same criteria as other disabilities, but you must provide documentation of your hearing loss and how it affects your ability to work or function[2][3].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or MassHealth. In Massachusetts, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Contributions are limited, but earnings grow tax-free. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses[5].
You must report any changes in your income, living situation, or health to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to MassAbility DDS or the SSA as soon as possible. Keep records of all reports and communications[2][3].
Contact MassAbility DDS for personalized help with your application. They can answer questions and guide you through the process.
Yes, if your deafness is severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work and you have a qualifying work history. You need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began[1][6].
Yes, if your income and resources are limited. SSI is for people with disabilities who have little or no work history. Your deafness must be severe enough to prevent substantial work[3][4].
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals. If you are deaf but not blind, your earnings must be below the non-blind SGA limit to qualify[1][4].
Yes, Massachusetts pays a small state supplement to SSI recipients and offers Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts. MassHealth covers hearing aids and other assistive devices[2][3][5].
Contact MassAbility DDS, gather your medical records and job history, and apply for SSDI or SSI online, by phone, or in person. DDS will review your application and may request additional information[2][3].
You need audiograms, doctor’s reports, and treatment history that show your hearing loss and how it affects your ability to work or function. DDS may request additional exams[2][4].
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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Yes, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. Work incentives allow some to earn income without losing benefits. Report any changes in your income to avoid overpayments[1][4].
SSDI is for people with a qualifying work history, while SSI is for people with limited income and resources. Both programs provide monthly payments to people with disabilities, including deafness[1][3].
The process can take several months. DDS reviews your application, may request additional information, and makes a decision based on your medical and job history[2][3].
You can appeal the decision. Contact MassAbility DDS for information on the appeals process. You may need to provide additional evidence or attend a hearing[2].
