If you have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome in Vermont, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and food assistance like 3SquaresVT. This guide walks you through eligibility, how to apply, Vermont-specific programs, and tips for managing benefits.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, you must have a severe, long-term disability expected to last at least one year or result in death. SSI also requires low income and limited assets. SSDI requires a work history with enough Social Security credits. Both require medical documentation of your condition[3][4].
State-specific information is limited; start here:
Apply online at ssa.gov for SSI or SSDI, call Social Security (1-800-772-1213), or visit a local office[4]. For Vermont Medicaid, apply online at Vermont Health Connect or contact your local Department of Vermont Health Access office. For food help, apply for 3SquaresVT online or through local community partners[1]. Appeal any denials promptly—Legal Services Vermont can help[5].
Step 1: Gather Documentation
Step 2: Apply for Federal Benefits
Step 3: Apply for Vermont Medicaid
Step 4: Apply for Food Assistance
Step 5: Appeal if Denied
Step 6: Explore Other Resources
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides monthly cash benefits to adults and children with disabilities and limited income/resources. SSI eligibility in Vermont is the same as nationwide, with current maximum benefits up to $1,022.68 per month for individuals[3][4]. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) pays benefits to disabled workers (and sometimes their families) based on prior work history[4]. Medicaid covers health care for eligible low-income individuals; some with disabilities may qualify for additional HCBS waivers for in-home or community care[5].
3SquaresVT is Vermont’s version of SNAP (food stamps). Nearly 20,000 Vermonters with disabilities use it each month. If everyone in your household receives disability benefits, you may not have to meet the standard income limits, and benefits can be deposited directly to your bank account[1]. Out-of-pocket medical costs may increase your monthly benefit[1].
Vermont Paid Family and Medical Leave: Starting July 2025, a voluntary program will allow individuals to purchase insurance for paid leave, which can be used for serious health conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome[2].
Developmental Disability Services: If your Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome causes developmental delays, Vermont offers services through the Agency of Human Services. Eligibility and services vary[5].
Communication Support: The Vermont Communication Support Project offers free help in court or during hearings if your disability makes communication difficult[5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. While Vermont does not have a state ABLE program, you can enroll in any national ABLE program. Savings up to $100,000 do not count against SSI resource limits. Learn more at our <a href='/guides/able-accounts'>ABLE Accounts</a> guide.
For SSI, income and resource limits are strict: $2,000 for singles, $3,000 for couples (not counting your home and usually one car)[3][4]. 3SquaresVT has more flexible rules for people with disabilities—you may qualify even if you don’t meet standard income limits, especially with high medical costs[1].
If you get too much in benefits by mistake, you may have to pay it back. Report changes in income, living situation, or disability status right away to avoid overpayments. See our <a href='/guides/overpayments-and-reporting'>Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes</a> guide for tips on managing this process.
If you have high out-of-pocket medical costs, you may qualify for higher 3SquaresVT benefits in Vermont. Report all medical expenses when you apply—these can help you meet eligibility requirements even if your income is above standard limits[1].
Vermont’s new voluntary paid family and medical leave program starts in 2025. While not a disability benefit, it can help those with chronic conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome take paid time off for medical needs[2].
Yes, if your symptoms are severe enough to prevent work for at least a year, you may qualify for SSI (low income/resources) or SSDI (if you have a sufficient work history). Medical documentation is required[3][4].
Vermont does not have a state disability insurance program. Most residents rely on federal SSI/SSDI and Medicaid, but new paid family and medical leave options will be available starting in 2025[2][5].
Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers may cover in-home or community care for those who qualify medically and financially. Contact your local Department of Vermont Health Access to learn more[5].
Vermont does not have its own ABLE program, but you can join any national ABLE account, which allows tax-free savings for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility.
You can appeal any denial. Legal Services Vermont offers free help with appeals for SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid. Call 1-800-889-2047 for assistance[5].
Yes, 3SquaresVT allows Vermonters with disabilities to deduct out-of-pocket medical expenses from their income, which can increase your monthly benefit and help you qualify even if you exceed standard income limits[1].
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.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those with a work history who paid Social Security taxes. See our <a href='/guides/ssi-ssdi'>SSI vs SSDI</a> guide for details.
The Vermont Communication Support Project offers free assistance for people with disabilities in court or during hearings. Call 1-888-686-8277 or email csp@disabilityrightsvt.org[5].
Yes, living with a spouse who also gets SSI changes the income and asset limits. It can also change your benefit amount. Always report changes in your living situation[4].
You may be eligible for Vermont’s developmental disability services. Contact the Agency of Human Services for eligibility and services information[5].
