People with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Vermont may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as food and medical assistance. Vermont does not have a state disability program, but residents can access federal programs and support services. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, your ADHD must be severe enough to limit your ability to work or perform daily activities. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid into Social Security. Both programs require medical proof of your disability, such as doctor’s notes, treatment records, and functional assessments. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your application to see if your ADHD meets their criteria for disability.
For SSI, you must have little or no income and few resources (under $2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples). SSDI eligibility depends on your work history and how much you’ve paid into Social Security. Children with ADHD may also qualify for SSI if their condition is severe and meets SSA requirements.
Source: Social Security Administration, SSI in Vermont, 2025 (accessed 2025-11-06)
Vermont does not have a state disability program for adults or children with ADHD. All disability benefits come from federal programs like SSI and SSDI. However, Vermonters with disabilities can access other state and federal supports, such as 3SquaresVT (SNAP) for food assistance, Medicaid waivers for long-term care, and ABLE accounts for saving without losing benefits. If you receive federal disability payments, you may also qualify for additional help with medical costs or housing.
Vermont’s developmental disability services may offer support for children and adults with ADHD, especially if they have co-occurring conditions. You can appeal decisions about services or file complaints if your rights are not respected. Legal Services Vermont can help with appeals and other issues.
Source: Vermont Legal Aid, Disability Services (accessed 2025-11-06); Vermont Food Help, 3SquaresVT (accessed 2025-11-06)
Collect Documentation: Get medical records, treatment notes, and proof of income. For children, include school records and evaluations.
Choose Program: Decide if you need SSI (for low income) or SSDI (if you have a work history). Both require proof that ADHD limits your ability to work or function.
Apply Online or by Phone: Go to SSA.gov to apply for SSI or SSDI. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 for help. For children, a parent or guardian must apply.
Submit Medical Evidence: Send all medical records, doctor’s notes, and functional assessments to SSA. Be honest and thorough in your answers.
Wait for Decision: It can take 6 months or more for an initial decision. Most people are denied at first and must appeal. If you appeal, a hearing may take up to 2 years.
Apply for Other Benefits: If approved for SSI or SSDI, apply for 3SquaresVT (SNAP) for food help. For Medicaid waivers, contact DAIL. For ABLE accounts, visit the Vermont ABLE program.
Report Changes: If your income, resources, or living situation changes, report it to SSA and other programs to avoid overpayments.
Source: Social Security Administration, SSI in Vermont, 2025 (accessed 2025-11-06); Vermont Legal Aid, Disability Services (accessed 2025-11-06); Vermont Food Help, 3SquaresVT (accessed 2025-11-06)
Source: Social Security Administration, SSI in Vermont, 2025 (accessed 2025-11-06); Vermont Food Help, 3SquaresVT (accessed 2025-11-06)
Vermont does not have a state disability program for adults or children with ADHD. All disability benefits come from federal programs. However, Vermont offers:
Source: Vermont Legal Aid, Disability Services (accessed 2025-11-06); (accessed 2025-11-06); (accessed 2025-11-06)
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Vermont’s ABLE program is open to residents with disabilities that began before age 26. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) and the first $100,000 does not count against SSI resource limits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, transportation, and personal support.
Source: Vermont ABLE Program (accessed 2025-11-06)
For SSI, the resource limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. Income limits depend on your situation and may be higher if you have medical costs. SSDI has no resource limit, but your income must be below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level ($1,550/month in 2025 for most people). 3SquaresVT may have higher income limits for Vermonters with disabilities.
Source: Social Security Administration, SSI in Vermont, 2025 (accessed 2025-11-06); Vermont Food Help, 3SquaresVT (accessed 2025-11-06)
If your income, resources, or living situation changes, you must report it to SSA and other programs. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Report changes as soon as possible to avoid problems. If you get an overpayment notice, contact the agency right away to discuss repayment options.
Source: Social Security Administration, SSI in Vermont, 2025 (accessed 2025-11-06); Vermont Food Help, 3SquaresVT (accessed 2025-11-06)
If you need help with your application or have questions about your rights, contact Vermont Legal Aid at 1-800-889-2047 or fill out their online form for a callback.
Yes, ADHD can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it severely limits your ability to work or perform daily activities. You must provide medical proof and meet SSA’s criteria for disability.
Apply online at SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. Gather medical records and proof of income. Be honest and thorough in your answers.
You need doctor’s notes, treatment records, functional assessments, and any school or work evaluations that show how ADHD affects your daily life.
No, Vermont does not have a state disability program. All disability benefits come from federal programs like SSI and SSDI.
Yes, children with severe ADHD may qualify for SSI if their condition meets SSA’s criteria. Parents or guardians must apply on their behalf.
It can take 6 months or more for an initial decision. Most people are denied at first and must appeal. A hearing may take up to 2 years.
You may qualify for 3SquaresVT (SNAP), Medicaid waivers, ABLE accounts, and developmental disability services if you have co-occurring conditions.
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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You can appeal online, by mail, or in person. Vermont Legal Aid can help with appeals and other issues related to disability services.
Yes, but your income must be below the SGA level ($1,550/month in 2025). SSDI and SSI have work incentives to help you keep benefits while working.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses.
