HIV/AIDS Benefits and Services in Vermont

To qualify for federal benefits like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have a disability that prevents work for at least a year or is terminal. SSDI requires work credits; SSI is based on low income and resources, regardless of work history, and has strict asset limits: $2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples[2]. Both programs require U.S. residency and citizenship or qualified non-citizen status. There is no HIV/AIDS-specific disease list—eligibility depends on how your symptoms limit your ability to work and meet daily needs. For SSI, you must also apply for other benefits you may be eligible for.

Vermont uses federal eligibility rules for SSI and SSDI but may have different processes for appeals and local support services. There is no published Vermont-only program specifically for people with HIV/AIDS, but Vermont Medicaid covers HIV/AIDS care for those who qualify by income. State-funded case management, mental health, and HIV-specific services may be available through local agencies. The state also has strong anti-discrimination laws for housing and employment. If you receive federal disability benefits, you automatically qualify for 3SquaresVT (food benefits) regardless of income—medical expenses can increase your monthly amount[1]. For detailed, up-to-date state program rules, contact Vermont Legal Aid or the Vermont Department of Health.

Start by applying for federal benefits at your local Social Security office or online. For Vermont Medicaid, apply through the Department of Vermont Health Access. For food help, apply for 3SquaresVT online or by phone. Contact Vermont Legal Aid for free help with appeals or if you face discrimination at work or home. Keep records of all medical visits and expenses.

Apply for Federal Disability Benefits

• SSI/SSDI: Gather medical records, work history, and proof of income. Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. If denied, file an appeal within 60 days—Vermont Legal Aid can help with this process[3].
• Medicare: If approved for SSDI, you’ll get Medicare after a 24-month waiting period.

Apply for Vermont Medicaid and Waivers

• Medicaid: Apply online at the Department of Vermont Health Access. You may qualify based on income, disability, or HIV status.
• Waivers: Ask about Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers for in-home care. Your doctor or case manager can help you apply.

Apply for Food Assistance (3SquaresVT)

• Complete an application online or by phone. Benefits are deposited monthly—people with disabilities do not have to meet income limits, and high medical costs may increase your benefit[1].

Protect Your Rights

• If denied services, file a complaint or appeal with help from Vermont Legal Aid[3].
• Report discrimination in housing or employment to the Vermont Human Rights Commission.

Save and Manage Money

• Open an ABLE account to save without losing benefits.
• Report income or living changes to Social Security and Medicaid to avoid overpayments.

Social Security Disability Programs:

• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): For people with low income and few assets, including children and adults with disabilities[2].
• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): For those with enough work credits; includes Medicare after 24 months.

Medicare: Covers hospital, doctor, and prescription costs for those eligible through SSDI.

Other Federal Programs:

• Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program: Provides medical care, medications, and support services (apply through local agencies, not state government).

Vermont Medicaid: Covers doctor visits, hospital care, medications (including HIV antiretrovirals), mental health, and substance use services for those who qualify by income or disability. Special HCBS waivers may pay for home care, personal care, and case management—ask your provider or case manager.

3SquaresVT: Vermont’s food assistance program deposits money monthly to buy groceries. If everyone in your household receives disability benefits, you’re exempt from income limits, and out-of-pocket medical expenses can increase your benefit[1].

Development Disability Services: For those with both HIV/AIDS and a developmental disability, Vermont offers additional supports—apply through the state’s designated agencies.

Legal Protections: Vermont law bans discrimination based on disability in housing, employment, and public services. Free legal help is available for appeals, complaints, and advice on your rights[3].

There is no published, Vermont-specific HIV/AIDS assistance program, but local nonprofits, health centers, and regional HIV/AIDS organizations may offer additional help. Contact Vermont Legal Aid or the Vermont Department of Health for referrals.

ABLE accounts let you save money (up to $17,000 per year in 2025) without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Earnings grow tax-free, and funds can be used for qualified disability expenses. You can open an ABLE account if your disability started before age 26. Learn more about how ABLE accounts work and how to open one.

SSI limits: $2,000 in resources for individuals, $3,000 for couples (not counting your home, usual car, and some other assets)[2]. Income limits are set by the federal government and adjusted for living expenses. 3SquaresVT exemptions: If everyone in your home receives federal disability benefits, you are exempt from the usual income limits for food benefits[1].

Always report changes in income, living situation, or household members to Social Security and Vermont Medicaid. Failing to report can lead to overpayments, which you’ll have to pay back. If you receive an overpayment notice, you can appeal or ask for a waiver. For step-by-step help, visit our guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes.

• Vermont Legal Aid
  Phone: 1-800-889-2047

  Website

  Free legal help for disability appeals, discrimination, and questions about your rights[3].
• Vermont Food Help (3SquaresVT)
  Phone: 1-855-855-6181

  TTY: 711

  Email: [email protected]

  Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:30am–4pm

  Website

  Help applying for food benefits and questions about eligibility.
• Department of Vermont Health Access (Medicaid)
  Phone: 1-800-250-8427

  TTY: 711

  Hours: Mon–Fri, 8am–4:30pm

  Website

  Apply for Vermont Medicaid and ask about waiver programs.

• Can I get SSI or SSDI if I have HIV/AIDS?

  Yes, if your HIV/AIDS symptoms limit your ability to work for at least a year or are terminal. SSDI requires work credits; SSI is based on low income and assets. A doctor must confirm your disability—there’s no automatic approval just for having HIV/AIDS[2].

• Does Vermont Medicaid cover HIV medications?

  Yes, Vermont Medicaid covers HIV antiretroviral medications, doctor visits, hospital care, and mental health services if you qualify by income or disability.

• How does having HIV/AIDS affect food benefits in Vermont?

  If you receive federal disability benefits, you do not have to meet 3SquaresVT’s usual income limits. Medical expenses may also increase your monthly grocery benefit[1].

• Can I save money without losing my benefits?

  Yes, you can open an ABLE account and save up to $17,000 per year without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Funds can pay for qualified disability expenses.

• What if my SSI or Medicaid application is denied?

  You have the right to appeal. Vermont Legal Aid offers free help with appeals and can guide you through the process[3].

• Are there special programs for people with HIV/AIDS in Vermont?

  There is no state program only for HIV/AIDS, but Medicaid covers your care. Local nonprofits and health centers may offer additional support—ask your case manager or contact Vermont Legal Aid for referrals.