Vermonters with Deaf-Blindness can access federal and state benefits, including SSI, Medicaid waivers, food assistance, and ABLE accounts. Eligibility and application steps vary, so it’s important to understand both federal and Vermont-specific rules to maximize support.
Federal benefits for people with Deaf-Blindness center on Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is for people with limited income and resources who are blind, disabled, or over 65. To qualify, your resources (like savings) must be less than $2,000 ($3,000 for couples), and your income must be very low. Your home and usually one car aren’t counted[2].
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is also a federal program, but it is based on work history, not current income. If you’ve paid into Social Security through jobs, you may qualify for SSDI even if you have more resources. The severity of your Deaf-Blindness must meet Social Security’s medical criteria for disability.
Vermonters with disabilities—including Deaf-Blindness—can access 3SquaresVT (SNAP) food assistance even if you don’t meet usual income limits, as long as everyone in your household gets disability benefits (like SSI or SSDI)[1]. Medical expenses may help you get a higher benefit. There is often no asset test for people with disabilities in Vermont’s 3SquaresVT program[1].
For developmental disabilities, Vermont offers services through the Department of Aging and Independent Living, but specific Deaf-Blindness programs are not detailed in public resources. If you face barriers to service, you can appeal or file a complaint through Vermont Legal Aid[3]. Help with assistive technology, reasonable accommodations, and communication support in court is also available[3]. State-specific information is limited; start here for official guidance.
1. Apply for SSI/SSDI
2. Apply for 3SquaresVT (SNAP)
3. Medicaid and Waivers
4. Get Additional Help
ABLE accounts let Vermonters with Deaf-Blindness save for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. These accounts grow tax-free and can be used for education, housing, transportation, and more[3].
Always report changes in income, living situation, or resources to SSI, SNAP, and Vermont Medicaid promptly. This prevents overpayments and ensures you get the right amount of benefits. If you receive too much and can’t pay it back, ask about waivers or payment plans.
If you’re Deaf-Blind and need help applying for Vermont disability benefits or appealing a decision, Vermont Legal Aid provides free support. Call 1-800-889-2047 or email intake@vtlegalaid.org[3]. For communication support in court, contact the Vermont Communication Support Project at 1-888-686-8277 or csp@disabilityrightsvt.org[3].
If everyone in your Vermont household gets disability benefits, you may not have to pass a resource test for 3SquaresVT, and income limits may be more flexible. Medical expenses can increase your benefit amount[1].
Yes, if you meet SSI’s strict income and resource limits and your Deaf-Blindness meets Social Security’s disability criteria[2].
Yes, 3SquaresVT (SNAP) has special rules for households where everyone gets disability benefits—no resource test and less strict income limits in some cases[1].
Contact Vermont Legal Aid or the Client Assistance Program for information on accessing devices and durable medical equipment[3].
Vermont Legal Aid can help you appeal denials for SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, or developmental disability services[3].
Yes, ABLE accounts allow you to save for disability expenses while keeping SSI and Medicaid eligibility[3].
The Vermont Communication Support Project provides specialists to help people with disabilities in court and administrative hearings[3].
Vermont has Medicaid waivers, but specific Deaf-Blindness programs are not detailed in official resources; contact Vermont Health Connect for details.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Join thousands of families who trust Purple to protect their benefits
Purple is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by OMB Bank, Member FDIC.
Contact Vermont Legal Aid to learn about your rights and how to file a discrimination complaint[3].
Report changes in income, living situation, or resources to SSI, 3SquaresVT, and Vermont Medicaid as soon as possible to avoid overpayments.
Contact Vermont Food Help for food assistance and Vermont Legal Aid for legal issues—both have staff trained to help people with disabilities[1][3].
