Ohio offers federal and state benefits to support people with dyscalculia and other learning disabilities. Key programs include SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, Ohio Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. Read this guide for eligibility, how to apply, money management, and local contacts to get the help you need.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) based on dyscalculia or a learning disability, you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability and have worked long enough to earn sufficient credits. Typically, you need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability starts[5]. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65+. SSI also requires a qualifying disability, and your financial resources must be very low[7]. Both SSI and SSDI are not specific to any one disability; the focus is on the severity of impairment and its impact on work.
Ohio offers additional support through Medicaid and developmental disability waivers. For waivers, you must meet Ohio’s definition of a developmental disability, which sometimes includes severe learning disabilities depending on functional impact[2]. You’ll need an assessment from your local county board of developmental disabilities, which coordinates eligibility, service planning, and support[2]. Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) helps people navigate how employment affects SSI/SSDI and Medicaid in Ohio, maximizing independence while keeping benefits[1]. For general public benefits, Ohio Medicaid requires you to meet income and disability standards, and you apply through your county department of job and family services[3].
For SSI/SSDI:
For Ohio Medicaid and Waivers:
For Work Incentives and Benefits Planning:
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are the main federal benefits for people with disabilities, including learning disabilities like dyscalculia. SSDI is for those with a work history, while SSI supports people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history[7]. Both programs require you to have a qualifying disability that severely limits your ability to work[5][7]. The Ticket to Work program offers free support to help you return to work while keeping your benefits[1].
Ohio expands federal programs with state-specific supports:
Ohio ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other means-tested benefits. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses. Check our ABLE Accounts guide for details.
SSI has strict income and resource limits, requiring most applicants to have very low income and assets[7]. Ohio Medicaid also has income limits, but these can vary based on the program and waiver. Use DB101 Ohio’s planning tools to estimate how work affects your benefits[3].
If you get overpaid by SSI or SSDI, you must repay the extra funds. Report all changes in income, living situation, or resources promptly to avoid overpayments. See our Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide for more.
Disability Rights Ohio offers free legal advocacy and support for people with disabilities. If you have trouble getting benefits or suspect misuse by a representative payee, contact them for help.
Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) counselors can help you understand how employment affects your SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid benefits. Don’t assume working will automatically end your support—ask an expert.
SSDI is for people with a work history who have paid into Social Security, while SSI is for those with limited income/resources, regardless of work history. Both require a qualifying disability.
Waivers are mainly for developmental disabilities with significant functional impact. Dyscalculia alone rarely qualifies—eligibility depends on severity and daily life impact. Ask your county board for an assessment[2].
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office. SOAR-certified advocates can help with the process in Ohio[3][6].
Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA), OhioMeansJobs, and Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) offer support. WIPA helps you understand how work affects benefits[1][3].
ABLE accounts let you save up to $100,000 without affecting SSI eligibility. Use funds for disability-related expenses, such as education, housing, or assistive technology.
Earned income can reduce SSI payments. Some work incentives let you keep more of your benefits as you transition to employment. Use DB101 Ohio’s planning tools to estimate the impact[3].
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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Contact your county board of developmental disabilities, county job and family services office, or Disability Rights Ohio for assistance. For Medicaid, call 1-800-324-8680[2][3].
Yes, you can appeal any denial of SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid. Contact the Social Security Administration or your county office for instructions.
Ticket to Work is a free program that helps people with disabilities find employment while keeping their benefits. It offers job training, placement, and benefits counseling.
Medicaid may cover some therapies if medically necessary, but coverage varies. Contact your county job and family services office or Ohio Medicaid consumer hotline for details[3].
