People who are hard of hearing in Rhode Island can access federal and state disability benefits, including Social Security, Medicaid, and vocational rehabilitation. Eligibility depends on medical need, income, and work history. This guide covers how to apply, what benefits are available, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. SSDI requires a work history and payment of Social Security taxes. Both programs cover people with sensory disabilities, including those who are hard of hearing. You must provide medical evidence showing your hearing loss affects your ability to work. If approved, you may receive monthly payments and health coverage (Medicaid for SSI, Medicare after 24 months for SSDI)[^1][^2].
In Rhode Island, people who are hard of hearing can qualify for several state programs. The Ticket to Work Medicaid program has no income or asset limits for those ages 16–64, so you can earn and save more while keeping your benefits. The Sherlock Plan covers those 65 and older, with income and asset limits. Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) is available for short-term, non-work-related illnesses or injuries, including those that may affect hearing. To qualify for TDI, you must have paid into the fund and earned a minimum amount in your base period. Vocational Rehabilitation Services are also available to help you prepare for, get, or keep a job[^3][^4][^5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing benefits like SSI or Medicaid. You can use the funds for things like hearing aids, education, housing, and transportation. Rhode Island residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed[^8].
For SSI, there are strict income and resource limits. For SSDI, there are no income limits, but you must have a qualifying work history. Rhode Island’s Ticket to Work Medicaid program has no income or asset limits for those under 65. The Sherlock Plan has income and asset limits for those 65 and older. TDI has earnings requirements based on your base period wages[^3][^4][^5][^6][^7].
If you get too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to the Social Security Administration and the state agency that pays your benefits. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate. For more information, see the guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes[^9].
Contact the Rhode Island Office of Rehabilitation Services for help with applications and eligibility questions. They can guide you through the process and connect you with resources.
You may qualify for SSI or SSDI, which provide monthly payments and health coverage. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those with a work history. Both programs cover sensory disabilities like hearing loss.
Yes. Rhode Island offers Medicaid for working people with disabilities through the Ticket to Work program (ages 16–64) and the Sherlock Plan (ages 65+). Ticket to Work has no income or asset limits, so you can earn and save more.
Yes. Rhode Island’s Office of Rehabilitation Services offers vocational rehabilitation services to help you prepare for, get, or keep a job. You must show that your hearing loss is a barrier to employment and that you can benefit from the services.
TDI provides short-term wage replacement for non-work-related illnesses or injuries, including those that may affect hearing. You must have paid into the fund and earned a minimum amount in your base period to qualify.
Start by getting a medical evaluation. Then apply for federal benefits online, by phone, or in person. Apply for state programs through the state’s website or by phone. Contact the Office of Rehabilitation Services for vocational rehab.
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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Yes. ABLE accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for things like hearing aids, education, housing, and transportation.
If you’re denied, you have 60 days to appeal. You can file an appeal with the Social Security Administration or the state agency that denied your claim. You may also be referred for vocational rehabilitation services.
Yes. Rhode Island offers SNAP for food assistance and General Public Assistance for cash assistance. These programs are available to those with low income and resources, including people with disabilities.
Yes. Report any changes to the Social Security Administration and the state agency that pays your benefits. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate.
You can get help with durable medical equipment like hearing aids from organizations like Lift and Care Systems. They can help you find the best equipment and help find funding for it.
