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Michigan • Learning
If you or a loved one has dysgraphia in Michigan, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid and State Disability Assistance. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
Dysgraphia, a learning disability affecting writing ability, may qualify for federal disability benefits if it severely limits your ability to work or perform daily activities. To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a work history and have paid Social Security taxes. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and assets, regardless of work history. Both programs require a medical determination of disability from the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA evaluates whether your dysgraphia prevents you from doing substantial work, considering your age, education, and other skills. If approved, you may receive monthly cash benefits and access to Medicaid or Medicare.
In Michigan, adults with dysgraphia may qualify for SSI, SSDI, and the State Disability Assistance (SDA) program. SSI recipients in Michigan may receive a small state supplement, increasing their monthly benefit. SDA provides cash assistance to disabled adults who do not qualify for federal benefits or need extra help. To qualify for SDA, you must be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal immigrant, live in Michigan, and meet income and asset limits. Michigan also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with therapy, assistive technology, and other supports. If you have dysgraphia and limited income, you may qualify for both SSI and SDA, or SSI and Medicaid.
Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes
Learn more about SSI & SSDI work incentives
Michigan offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities, including dysgraphia. These accounts let you save up to $17,000 per year without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and assistive technology. To open an account, visit the Michigan ABLE website or contact a financial advisor.
Learn more about Michigan ABLE Accounts
If your income, assets, or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security or MDHHS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to benefit reductions or repayment. Report changes promptly by phone, online, or in person. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact the agency to discuss repayment options or appeal if you disagree.
Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes
Contact a Michigan Benefit-to-Work Coach for free help with disability benefits and work incentives. They can answer questions and guide you through the process.
Yes, dysgraphia can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it severely limits your ability to work or perform daily activities. You must provide medical evidence and meet income or work history requirements.
SSI is for those with limited income and assets, regardless of work history. SSDI requires a qualifying work history and Social Security taxes. Both require a medical determination of disability.
In 2025, the SGA limit for SSDI is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals. For SSI, the federal maximum is $943/month, with possible Michigan supplements.
Yes, Michigan may provide a small SSI supplement, Medicaid coverage, and State Disability Assistance (SDA) for those not eligible for federal benefits. Medicaid waivers may cover therapy and assistive devices.
Apply for SSI or SSDI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. For SDA, apply through MDHHS. Gather medical records and proof of disability before applying.
Yes, work incentives allow you to test employment without immediately losing benefits. Report any income changes to avoid overpayments.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult official sources or a qualified professional for your specific situation.
SDA is cash assistance for disabled adults who do not qualify for federal benefits or need extra help. It has very low income and asset limits.
Yes, SSI recipients in Michigan are automatically eligible for Medicaid, which covers therapy, assistive technology, and other supports.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. It lets you save up to $17,000/year without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
Report any changes in income, assets, or living situation promptly to Social Security or MDHHS. Overpayments can lead to benefit reductions or repayment.
