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Utah • Sensory
People in Utah with deaf-blindness may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs for medical care, employment, and support. Eligibility depends on income, resources, and work history. Utah also offers Medicaid waivers and work incentives to help maintain benefits while working.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) with deaf-blindness, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. This means your condition must severely limit your ability to work and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. For SSDI, you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. For SSI, your income and resources must be below set limits. Children with deaf-blindness may also qualify if the disability started before age 22 and meets adult standards. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for those who are statutorily blind. Earning above these amounts may affect your benefits[1][2][4][6].
In Utah, individuals with deaf-blindness may qualify for Medicaid if they receive SSI or Social Security Disability benefits. If you do not receive these benefits, the State Medicaid Medical Review Board can determine disability based on medical evidence, without considering substantial gainful employment. Utah also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can provide support for daily living, employment, and more. The state’s work incentive programs allow you to keep Medicaid even if your income rises above the usual limits, as long as you pay a sliding-scale premium. Reporting changes in income or resources is required to maintain eligibility[3][5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save up to $19,000 per year (or $34,650 if you work and your employer doesn’t contribute to your retirement account) in 2025. These accounts are tax-advantaged and do not affect SSI or Medicaid eligibility as long as the balance is under $100,000. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like education, housing, and transportation[5].
It is crucial to report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit suspension. Report changes promptly to Social Security and Medicaid agencies. Keep records of all reports and correspondence[5].
Always report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments and benefit suspension.
Utah’s Medicaid Work Incentive allows you to keep Medicaid if your income rises above usual limits, as long as you pay a sliding-scale premium.
Yes, if your deaf-blindness meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability and you meet income, resource, or work history requirements. Medical evidence is required to prove your condition.
Utah Medicaid covers medical care, long-term services, and supports for those with disabilities. If you receive SSI or Social Security Disability benefits, you may automatically qualify.
The SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 per month for those who are statutorily blind. Earning above these amounts may affect your benefits.
Yes, work incentives allow you to earn more without losing benefits. Utah’s Medicaid Work Incentive lets you keep Medicaid if your income rises above usual limits, as long as you pay a sliding-scale premium.
ABLE accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts for disability-related expenses. You can save up to $19,000 per year (or $34,650 if you work and your employer doesn’t contribute to your retirement account) in 2025.
You can apply for Medicaid through the Utah Department of Health and Human Services website or local office. If you receive SSI or Social Security Disability benefits, you may automatically qualify.
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.
You must report any changes in income or resources to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit suspension.
Children with deaf-blindness may qualify for SSI or SSDI if the disability started before age 22 and meets adult standards. They may also qualify for Medicaid and other state programs.
Yes, Utah’s Division of Services for People with Disabilities offers employment and independent living services for people with disabilities.
The Medicaid Work Incentive allows you to keep Medicaid if your income rises above usual limits, as long as you pay a sliding-scale premium based on your income.
