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Vermont • Chronic Illness
If you have heart disease in Vermont, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, Medicaid, and food assistance. Vermont does not have a state disability program, but federal rules make it easier for people with disabilities to get help. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
If you have heart disease, you may qualify for federal disability benefits if your condition is severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a list of medical conditions called the "Blue Book" to decide if a disability is serious enough. Heart disease is listed in Section 4.00 of the Blue Book. To qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have low income and few resources. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs require medical proof of your disability. You must also be a U.S. citizen or legal resident and live in the U.S. ssa.gov (2025-04-01).
Vermont does not have its own state disability program. Only five states do. Vermonters with heart disease must apply for federal programs like SSI and SSDI. However, Vermont does make it easier for people with disabilities to get food help through 3SquaresVT (SNAP). If everyone in your household gets disability benefits, you may not have to meet income or resource limits for 3SquaresVT. You may also get a higher benefit if you have out-of-pocket medical costs. Vermont also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help people with heart disease stay at home instead of in a nursing home. vermontfoodhelp.com (2025-04-01), vtlawhelp.org (2025-04-01).
Vermont does not have a state disability program, but it does offer several programs that help people with disabilities, including those with heart disease. 3SquaresVT (SNAP) is easier to get if you receive disability benefits. You may not have to meet income or resource limits, and you may get a higher benefit if you have out-of-pocket medical costs. Vermont also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help people with heart disease stay at home instead of in a nursing home. The Client Assistance Program can help if you have problems applying for or getting vocational or independent living services. Legal Services Vermont can help with appeals and denials. vermontfoodhelp.com (2025-04-01), vtlawhelp.org (2025-04-01).
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the money for housing, education, transportation, and other expenses. Vermont residents can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE National Resource Center. able.nationalresourcecenter.org (2025-04-01).
For SSI in Vermont, the resource limit is $2,000 for a single person and $3,000 for a married couple. Your home and one car are not counted. For SSDI, there are no resource limits, but you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. For 3SquaresVT, if everyone in your household gets disability benefits, you may not have to meet income or resource limits. ssa.gov (2025-04-01), vermontfoodhelp.com (2025-04-01).
If you get too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you get an overpayment notice, you can appeal or ask for a waiver. ssa.gov (2025-04-01).
Legal Services Vermont can help you with appeals and denials. Call 1-800-889-2047 or visit vtlawhelp.org for more information.
If you have a disability that makes it hard to communicate, the Vermont Communication Support Project can help. Call 1-888-686-8277 or email [email protected].
Yes, if your heart disease is severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration uses a list of medical conditions to decide if a disability is serious enough. Heart disease is listed in Section 4.00 of the Blue Book.
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local SSA office. You will need medical records and proof of income. Most people need to appeal if denied.
3SquaresVT is Vermont's food assistance program. If you get disability benefits, you may not have to meet income or resource limits. You may also get a higher benefit if you have out-of-pocket medical costs.
No, Vermont does not have a state disability program. Only five states do. Vermonters must apply for federal programs like SSI and SSDI.
Out-of-pocket medical costs like over-the-counter medications, insurance premiums, medical supplies, dentures, prescriptions, and home health aid can count toward higher 3SquaresVT benefits.
If denied, you can appeal online, by phone, or in person. Most people need to appeal and go to a hearing. The process can take up to two years. Legal Services Vermont can help.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice about your specific situation.
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the money for housing, education, transportation, and other expenses.
Yes, if you have low income. Medicaid covers medical care and may include home care for those with heart disease. You can apply online or through the Department for Children and Families.
Report any changes in income, resources, or living situation online, by phone, or in person. If you get an overpayment notice, you can appeal or ask for a waiver.
Legal Services Vermont can help with appeals and denials. The Vermont Communication Support Project can help with communication in court or hearings.
