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Ohio • Sensory
Ohio residents who are Hard of Hearing can access federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state-specific supports such as Medicaid waivers and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources for Hard of Hearing Ohioans.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have a hearing loss that meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. This means your hearing loss must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For SSDI, you also need enough work credits, usually 40 total, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. SSI has strict income and asset limits and is for those with limited resources. Both programs require U.S. citizenship or legal residency.
For Hard of Hearing individuals, the SSA evaluates hearing loss using specific medical criteria, such as audiometry results and speech discrimination scores. If your hearing loss meets these criteria, you may qualify for benefits.
Source: SSA.gov, How Does Someone Become Eligible? (2025-04-01)
In Ohio, Hard of Hearing individuals may also access state-specific programs. County boards of developmental disabilities provide assessment and service planning for those with hearing loss, especially if it is part of a broader developmental disability. Ohio’s Medicaid waiver programs allow eligible individuals to receive home and community-based services, such as assistive technology and communication support. Additionally, Ohio’s Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) offers work incentives and support for those who want to work while receiving benefits. Legal advocacy is available through Disability Rights Ohio for issues related to representative payees or benefit misuse.
Source: Ohio Benefits, Assistance Programs and Supportive Services (2025-04-01) Source: Disability Rights Ohio, Programs (2025-04-01)
Source: SSA.gov, How to Apply for Disability (2025-04-01)
Source: SSA.gov, How to Apply for Disability (2025-04-01) Source: Ohio Benefits, Assistance Programs and Supportive Services (2025-04-01) Source: Disability Rights Ohio, Programs (2025-04-01)
Source: SSA.gov, Disability Benefits (2025-04-01)
Source: Ohio Benefits, Assistance Programs and Supportive Services (2025-04-01) Source: Disability Rights Ohio, Programs (2025-04-01) Source: OOD, Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (2025-04-01)
ABLE accounts allow Hard of Hearing Ohioans to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. These accounts can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as assistive technology, education, and housing. Ohio’s ABLE program is called STABLE.
Source: Ohio ABLE, STABLE (2025-04-01)
For SSI, the federal income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. SSDI has no income limit, but you must be unable to work due to your disability. Medicaid and Medicaid waivers have their own income and asset limits, which vary by program.
Source: SSA.gov, SSI Income Limits (2025-04-01)
If your income or condition changes, you must report it to the SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit reductions. Always keep records of your income and report changes promptly.
Source: SSA.gov, Reporting Changes (2025-04-01)
Contact your local county board of developmental disabilities or Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) for personalized support and guidance.
Disability Rights Ohio offers free legal help for issues related to benefits, representative payees, and more.
SSI is for those with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs require a qualifying disability, such as severe hearing loss.
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at your local Social Security office. You’ll need medical records and proof of income.
You’ll need audiometry and speech discrimination test results from a licensed audiologist. The SSA uses these to determine if your hearing loss meets their criteria.
Yes, Ohio offers work incentives that help Hard of Hearing individuals keep benefits while working. Contact OOD for more information.
A Medicaid waiver allows eligible individuals to receive home and community-based services. Apply through your county board of developmental disabilities or the Ohio Department of Medicaid.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Ohio’s program is called STABLE.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Contact Disability Rights Ohio for advocacy and oversight. They can investigate and report misuse to the SSA.
Yes, county boards of developmental disabilities and area agencies on aging provide local support and service planning for Hard of Hearing individuals.
Report changes to the SSA online, by phone, or at your local office to avoid overpayments and benefit reductions.
County boards provide assessment, service planning, and coordination for adults and children with developmental disabilities, including those who are Hard of Hearing.
