If you have short stature in Vermont, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, Medicaid, food assistance, and work supports. 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 medical condition that limits your ability to work or do daily activities. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Short stature may qualify if it causes significant functional limitations, such as trouble standing, walking, or reaching. The Social Security Administration reviews medical records and work history to decide eligibility. [^1]
In Vermont, people with short stature may qualify for state disability programs if their condition limits major life activities. Vermont follows federal rules for SSI and SSDI, but also offers extra help like Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. You may also qualify for food help through 3SquaresVT, which has special rules for people with disabilities. Vermont does not have a separate state disability program, but you can get help with appeals and legal issues through Legal Services Vermont. [^2]
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Vermont offers ABLE accounts through the ABLE United program. You can use the account for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and transportation. [^4]
SSI has strict income and resource limits. For 2025, the resource limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. Some resources, like your home and one car, are not counted. Vermont does not have a separate state disability income limit.
You must report changes in income, living situation, or resources to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to Social Security or the Vermont Department for Children and Families. [^5]
Legal Services Vermont offers free help with appeals, complaints, and disability rights. Call 1-800-889-2047 or fill out their online form.
The Vermont Communication Support Project offers free help for people with disabilities in court or administrative hearings. Call 1-888-686-8277 or email csp@disabilityrightsvt.org.
Yes, if short stature limits your ability to work or do daily activities, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. The Social Security Administration reviews medical records to decide eligibility. [^1]
Apply for 3SquaresVT online at mybenefits.vermont.gov or by phone at 1-800-479-6151. People with disabilities may get higher benefits if they have medical costs. [^3]
A Medicaid waiver helps pay for home care, assistive devices, and other supports for people with disabilities. Apply through the Vermont Department for Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living (DAIL). [^6]
Yes, Legal Services Vermont offers free help with appeals, complaints, and disability rights. Call 1-800-889-2047 or fill out their online form. [^2]
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Vermont offers ABLE accounts through the ABLE United program. [^4]
Yes, you must report changes to avoid overpayments. Report changes to Social Security or the Vermont Department for Children and Families. [^5]
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.
Yes, Medicaid waivers may help pay for assistive devices. Contact the Vermont Department for Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living (DAIL) for more information. [^6]
You can appeal the decision with help from Legal Services Vermont. They can help you file an appeal and represent you in hearings. [^2]
Yes, SSI and SSDI have work incentives that let you keep some benefits while you work. Learn more about work incentives on our guide. [^7]
The Vermont Communication Support Project offers free help for people with disabilities in court or administrative hearings. Call 1-888-686-8277 or email csp@disabilityrightsvt.org. [^8]
