People with Deaf-Blindness in Minnesota can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. Recent changes affect health insurance for public safety workers, but most programs remain available to those who qualify.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) criteria for Deaf-Blindness. This means having both significant hearing and vision loss that severely limits your ability to work. For adults, you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. Children may qualify if their disability began before age 18 and meets SSA’s definition. Adults with a disability that began before age 22 may also qualify for benefits based on a parent’s work record if unmarried and not earning above the substantial gainful activity limit (in 2025, $1,620/month, or $2,700 if blind) [4].
In Minnesota, eligibility for state disability benefits depends on your income, resources, and disability status. Medical Assistance (MA), Minnesota Supplemental Aid, and Housing Support programs use updated income guidelines that include the 2025 Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). People with Deaf-Blindness may qualify for these programs if their income and resources are below the limits. Minnesota also offers Medicaid waiver programs for people with disabilities, which provide home and community-based services. The Waiver Reimagine initiative is improving access and equity across waiver programs, regardless of disability type or location in the state [2][3].
Beginning January 1, 2025, the ABLE Age Adjustment Act expands eligibility for ABLE accounts to people whose disability began before age 46. ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. Contributions are tax-free, and earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are also tax-free [3].
Income limits for Minnesota benefits (Medical Assistance, Supplemental Aid, Housing Support) are updated annually to include the Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). As of July 1, 2025, these limits reflect the latest COLA. Check the Disability Benefits 101 (DB101) Minnesota website for current income guidelines and tools [3].
It is important to report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments and ensure continued eligibility for benefits. Overpayments can result in repayment demands and loss of benefits. Use the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide to learn about reporting requirements and how work can affect your benefits [5].
Minnesota’s 2025 law changes reduced health insurance coverage for public safety duty disabilities to five years, except for total and permanent disabilities. State benefit income limits now reflect the latest Social Security COLA.
People with Deaf-Blindness in Minnesota can qualify for federal SSI and SSDI benefits if they meet Social Security Administration criteria. These programs provide monthly payments and health coverage to adults and children with disabilities.
Apply for federal SSI/SSDI benefits through the SSA website or office. For state benefits like Medical Assistance, Supplemental Aid, or Housing Support, apply through the Minnesota Department of Human Services online or at your county office.
Medicaid waivers in Minnesota provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities, including those with Deaf-Blindness. The Waiver Reimagine initiative is improving access and equity across these programs.
Yes, if your disability began before age 46, you can open an ABLE account in Minnesota. These accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits.
Recent changes include updated income guidelines for state benefits (COLA), expedited SMRT disability determinations for high-risk applicants, and reduced health insurance coverage duration for public safety duty disabilities (from age 65 to five years, except for total and permanent disabilities).
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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Working can affect your disability benefits. Report any changes in income or resources to avoid overpayments. Use the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide to learn about how work can impact your benefits.
SSI is for people with disabilities who have low income and resources. SSDI is for people with disabilities who have a qualifying work history. Both programs provide monthly payments and health coverage.
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to the Minnesota Department of Human Services or Social Security Administration to avoid overpayments and ensure continued eligibility.
Children with Deaf-Blindness may qualify for SSI, Medicaid, and Medicaid waiver programs. They may also receive benefits as a dependent on a parent’s Social Security record if they meet eligibility criteria.
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