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Minnesota • Sensory
People who are hard of hearing in Minnesota may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and special programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) criteria. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with low income and resources, regardless of work history. Children under 18 may qualify if they have a disability, and adults with a disability that began before age 22 may be eligible for benefits based on a parent’s record. The SSA defines disability as the inability to do substantial work due to a medical condition that has lasted or is expected to last at least one year or result in death [3].
In Minnesota, people who are hard of hearing may qualify for state benefits like Medical Assistance (Medicaid), Minnesota Supplemental Aid, and Housing Support. Eligibility is based on income, assets, and disability status. The state also offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities that began before age 46. Minnesota law requires that certain high-risk Medical Assistance applicants, including those with severe hearing loss, may qualify for expedited disability determinations. State-specific programs may have additional requirements, so check with the Department of Human Services for details [2].
ABLE accounts are available in Minnesota for people with disabilities that began before age 46. These accounts allow you to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits. Contributions are tax-free, and earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are also tax-free. You can open an ABLE account through the Minnesota ABLE program [2].
Income limits for SSI and state benefits change each year. For SSI in 2025, the federal benefit rate is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Minnesota Medical Assistance and Supplemental Aid have their own income limits, which are updated annually with the Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment. Check the latest guidelines on the Minnesota Department of Human Services website [2].
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you must report it and may have to repay the overpayment. Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA and Minnesota Department of Human Services. Failure to report changes can result in penalties or loss of benefits. See the guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes for more details [4].
Contact Disability Hub MN for free, personalized help with disability benefits in Minnesota. They can help you solve problems, navigate the system, and plan for your future.
People who are hard of hearing in Minnesota may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for those with a work history, while SSI is for those with low income and resources. Both programs require a medical condition that meets SSA criteria [3].
Minnesota offers Medical Assistance (Medicaid), Minnesota Supplemental Aid, Housing Support, and ABLE accounts. Eligibility is based on income, assets, and disability status. The state also has expedited disability determinations for high-risk applicants [2].
You can apply for federal benefits (SSI/SSDI) online, by phone, or in person. For state benefits, apply online at mnsure.org or by mail. Contact Disability Hub MN for help with the process and to review your options [2][3][4].
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities that began before age 46. You can open an account through the Minnesota ABLE program. Contributions and earnings are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free [2].
Income limits for SSI and state benefits change each year. For SSI in 2025, the federal benefit rate is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Minnesota Medical Assistance and Supplemental Aid have their own income limits, which are updated annually with the Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment [2].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice on your specific situation.
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA and Minnesota Department of Human Services. Failure to report changes can result in penalties or loss of benefits. See the guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes for more details [4].
Children who are hard of hearing may qualify for SSI, SSDI (if a parent is eligible), and state benefits. Children under age 18 may qualify for benefits if they have a disability. Adults with a disability that began before age 22 may be eligible for benefits based on a parent’s record [3].
High-risk Medical Assistance applicants, including those with severe hearing loss, may qualify for expedited disability determinations. Hospitals can submit expedited referrals, and the Department of Human Services has a new unit to manage these referrals and support fast processing [2].
Contact Disability Hub MN for personalized help. They offer free statewide support to help you solve problems, navigate the system, and plan for your future. You can chat, call, or email the Hub during business hours [4].
In 2025, Minnesota reduced the duration of continued health insurance benefits for regular duty disabilities to five years, down from coverage until age 65. Employees with a total and permanent duty disability still receive coverage through age 65. State Patrol members are exempt from this change [1].
