Vermonters with Cystic Fibrosis can access federal and state benefits, including SSI, Medicaid, food assistance, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must have a condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability. Cystic Fibrosis is listed as a qualifying condition if it causes severe symptoms or complications. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid into Social Security. Both programs require medical documentation and proof of income and resources. You must live in the U.S. and meet citizenship or lawful presence requirements.
Source: Social Security Administration, 2025
For more details on SSI vs SSDI, see our guide: SSI vs SSDI.
In Vermont, people with disabilities—including Cystic Fibrosis—may qualify for additional support. Vermonters receiving disability benefits (like SSI, SSDI, or Veteran’s Disability) can get 3SquaresVT food assistance without strict income or resource limits. If everyone in your household gets disability benefits, 3SquaresVT deposits are made directly to your bank account. You may also get higher monthly benefits if you have out-of-pocket medical costs, such as prescriptions, medical supplies, or home health care.
Vermont also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with long-term care needs. ABLE accounts are available for saving without losing benefits. Legal Services Vermont can help with appeals and complaints about services.
Source: Vermont Food Help, 2025 Source: VTLawHelp.org, 2025 Source: Social Security Administration, 2025
Source: Social Security Administration, 2025
Source: Vermont Food Help, 2025 Source: VTLawHelp.org, 2025 Source: LiDAC, 2025
ABLE accounts let Vermonters with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $16,000 per year (2025 limit) and the first $100,000 is not counted for SSI. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and more. Open an account through the Vermont ABLE Program.
Source: Social Security Administration, 2025
Source: Social Security Administration, 2025 Source: Vermont Food Help, 2025
You must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you don’t report changes or if your situation changes. If you get an overpayment, you may have to pay it back. Contact your benefits office if you think you have an overpayment.
Source: Social Security Administration, 2025 Source: Vermont Food Help, 2025
Contact Legal Services Vermont at 1-800-889-2047 for free help with applications, appeals, and complaints.
Yes, Cystic Fibrosis can qualify for SSI if it meets Social Security’s disability criteria. You must have limited income and resources. Medical documentation is required.
Yes, Vermonters with disabilities can get 3SquaresVT food assistance. If everyone in your household gets disability benefits, there are no strict income or resource limits.
Contact the Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living. They can help you apply for Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services.
An ABLE account lets you save for disability-related expenses without losing benefits. Open an account through the Vermont ABLE Program online or by phone.
Yes, you must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Contact your benefits office if your situation changes.
Yes, there are work incentives that let you keep benefits while you work. Contact Social Security for details on work incentives.
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 the decision. Contact Legal Services Vermont for help with appeals and complaints about disability services.
Yes, Vermont’s Family and Medical Leave Insurance (VT-FMLI) offers paid leave for medical reasons, starting July 2024.
Contact Legal Services Vermont for help with appeals, complaints, and legal issues related to disability services.
Yes, the Vermont Communication Support Project offers free help for people with disabilities in court or administrative hearings.
