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Rhode Island • Sensory
People who are Deaf in Rhode Island can access federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and vocational rehabilitation. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and medical documentation. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Rhode Island, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a qualifying work history and a disability that prevents you from working. SSDI is for those who have paid into Social Security through payroll taxes. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and be aged, blind, or disabled. Both programs require medical documentation proving your disability. You can apply for both SSDI and SSI if you meet both sets of criteria[3][4].
Rhode Island has several programs for people with disabilities, including Deafness. The Ticket to Work Medicaid program covers those aged 16–64 with no income or asset limits. The Sherlock Plan covers those 65 and older, with income and asset limits. Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) is available for those who have paid into the fund and earned at least $16,800 in the base period, or meet alternate criteria. Vocational Rehabilitation Services are available for those whose Deafness is a barrier to employment and who can benefit from services to help them work[2][1][5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Rhode Island residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to apply[ABLE Accounts].
For SSI, federal income limits apply. For Ticket to Work Medicaid, there are no income or asset limits for those under 65. For Sherlock Plan Medicaid, income must be below 250% FPL and assets below $10,000 individual/$20,000 couple. TDI has wage requirements but no ongoing income limits after approval[2].
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report changes in income, assets, or living situation to avoid overpayments. For SSI and SSDI, report changes promptly to the SSA. For Medicaid, report changes to the state Medicaid office[Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Contact the Office of Rehabilitation Services at 401-421-7005 for help with vocational rehab and disability applications. For SSI/SSDI, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
Yes, Deaf people in Rhode Island can get Medicaid through the Ticket to Work program (ages 16–64) or the Sherlock Plan (ages 65+). Ticket to Work has no income or asset limits, while Sherlock Plan has limits[2].
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at the SSA website, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need medical records and proof of income[3][4].
Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) provides short-term wage replacement for those who cannot work due to a non-work-related illness or injury. You must have paid into the fund and meet wage requirements[1][6].
Yes, Rhode Island’s Ticket to Work Medicaid has no income or asset limits, so you can work and still get benefits. SSI and SSDI also have work incentives that let you keep some benefits while working[2][SSI vs SSDI].
Vocational Rehabilitation Services helps people with disabilities, including Deafness, prepare for, obtain, and maintain employment. Services include job training, counseling, and assistive technology[5].
TDI pays 4.62% of your highest quarter wages, with a minimum of $130 and maximum of $1,070 per week. Payments last up to 30 weeks[1][6].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current eligibility and application rules.
Yes, Vocational Rehabilitation Services and some Medicaid programs may help cover the cost of durable medical equipment for Deaf individuals. Contact the Office of Rehabilitation Services for more information[5].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing benefits. Rhode Island residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program[ABLE Accounts].
Yes, you must report changes in income, assets, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Report changes to the SSA for SSI/SSDI and to the state Medicaid office for Medicaid[Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
You can get help from the Social Security Administration, the Office of Rehabilitation Services, or local nonprofits. Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or the Office of Rehabilitation Services at 401-421-7005[3][5].
