Individuals with dyslexia in Rhode Island may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state-specific programs for education, employment, and financial support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
Dyslexia may qualify for federal disability benefits if it causes significant limitations in work or daily living. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two main programs:
To qualify, your dyslexia must meet SSA’s definition of disability, which means it must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Medical evidence and school records are important for your application.
Both programs require a formal application and review process. You may be eligible for both SSDI and SSI if you meet the criteria for each.
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In Rhode Island, dyslexia is considered a learning disability and may qualify for support through state programs, especially if it affects employment or daily living. The Office of Rehabilitation Services (ORS) provides vocational rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities, including those with dyslexia. To qualify, you must have a physical, intellectual, or emotional impairment that is a substantial barrier to employment and need vocational rehabilitation services to prepare for, obtain, or maintain employment.
Rhode Island also offers Medicaid waivers for individuals with developmental disabilities, which may include certain learning disabilities if they meet the criteria. These waivers can help pay for services like therapy, assistive technology, and supported employment.
The state’s Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) program is for non-work-related illness or injury, not for learning disabilities like dyslexia. However, if you have a co-occurring medical condition, you may qualify for TDI.
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Gather Documentation: Collect medical records, school evaluations, and any other evidence that shows how dyslexia affects your ability to work or perform daily activities.
Apply for Federal Benefits:
Contact ORS for Vocational Rehabilitation:
Apply for Medicaid Waivers (if eligible):
Consider ABLE Accounts:
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ABLE accounts allow individuals with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. In Rhode Island, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. These accounts offer tax advantages and can be used for expenses like education, housing, transportation, and personal support services.
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Income limits for SSI and Medicaid vary based on your situation. For SSI, the federal limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. Medicaid income limits depend on your household size and whether you qualify for a waiver. Check with the Rhode Island Department of Human Services for specific limits and how they apply to your situation.
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If you receive SSI or SSDI, you must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment or benefit reductions. For more information on how to report changes and avoid overpayments, see the SSA’s guide on reporting changes.
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Contact the Rhode Island Office of Rehabilitation Services at 401-421-7005 for help with vocational rehabilitation applications. For SSI/SSDI, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213.
Yes, if dyslexia is severe enough to prevent you from working or performing daily activities, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You’ll need medical and school records to prove your disability.
Rhode Island offers vocational rehabilitation, Medicaid waivers, and financial assistance programs for individuals with disabilities, including dyslexia. Contact the Office of Rehabilitation Services for more information.
You can apply online or by phone with the Rhode Island Office of Rehabilitation Services. You’ll need to complete an application and a Release of Information form.
If you have dyslexia and meet the income and disability criteria, you may qualify for Medicaid. Medicaid waivers may also be available for certain services.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for disability-related expenses. It can help you save for things like education, housing, and personal support services without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility.
Yes, you must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment or benefit reductions.
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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TDI is for non-work-related illness or injury, not for learning disabilities like dyslexia. However, if you have a co-occurring medical condition, you may qualify for TDI.
You can get help from the Social Security Administration, the Rhode Island Office of Rehabilitation Services, or local disability advocacy organizations.
You’ll need medical records, school evaluations, and any other evidence that shows how your disability affects your ability to work or perform daily activities.
The decision time varies, but it can take several months. You may be asked to provide additional information or attend a medical exam.
