Vermonters with Traumatic Brain Injury can access a range of federal and state benefits, including Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Medicaid, food assistance, and special services. This guide explains eligibility, application steps, and Vermont-specific programs for people with neurological and developmental disabilities.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI with a Traumatic Brain Injury, you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s strict definition of disability, expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. SSI also has strict income and resource limits—generally, under $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple. Your home and one car usually don’t count toward this limit. You must also be a U.S. citizen or meet certain non-citizen requirements. For SSDI, you need enough work credits based on your age at disability onset.[2]
Vermont uses federal rules for SSI and SSDI but offers additional state supports. For developmental disabilities, including TBI, the state provides case management, residential supports, and other services through the Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living. The 3SquaresVT program helps Vermonters with disabilities stretch their food budget—special rules may apply, so those with fixed disability incomes or high medical costs could get extra benefits without a strict resource test. Medicaid waivers may cover home- and community-based services for those who might otherwise need institutional care, but eligibility depends on clinical and financial criteria. Vermont also has a Client Assistance Program to help with access to vocational and independent living services.[1][3]
For SSI/SSDI:
For Vermont Medicaid:
For 3SquaresVT:
For Developmental Disability Services:
For Legal Help:
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly cash assistance for people with limited income and resources who are 65+, blind, or disabled. SSI is for those who haven’t paid enough into Social Security for SSDI.[2]
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly benefits for workers who paid Social Security taxes and are now disabled before retirement age.
Medicare: Health coverage for those eligible for SSDI after a 24-month waiting period.
Medicaid: Health coverage for low-income individuals, including long-term services and supports. Medicare and Medicaid can work together for those dually eligible.
Vermont Medicaid: Offers health coverage including home- and community-based services (HCBS) waivers, which can help people with TBI stay in their homes instead of institutions. Apply through Vermont Health Connect.
Developmental Disability Services: Provides case management, residential supports, and day services through regional Designated Agencies. Eligibility is based on clinical and functional criteria for developmental disabilities, which can include TBI.
3SquaresVT: Vermont’s food assistance program. Vermonters with disabilities receiving federal disability benefits may have easier eligibility and get benefits as cash in a bank account. Medical expenses may increase your benefit.[1]
Client Assistance Program: Helps with access to vocational rehabilitation and independent living services.
Vermont Legal Aid: Offers help with benefits, appeals, and disability rights. They can assist if you face discrimination or need help communicating in legal settings.[3]
ABLE accounts let Vermonters with disabilities save for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility up to $100,000. Earnings are tax-free, and funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, health, and more. For details, visit the ABLE Accounts guide.
SSI income limits: In 2025, you must have less than $2,000 in resources ($3,000 for couples) to qualify. Not all resources count—your home and usually one car are exempt.[2] 3SquaresVT may have different rules for people with disabilities; check with Vermont Food Help.
If you get too much in benefits by mistake (overpayment), you must repay the excess. Always report changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to Social Security, Medicaid, or 3SquaresVT right away to avoid overpayments or losing benefits. See the Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide for best practices.
Vermont Legal Aid can help with benefits, appeals, and disability rights. Call 1-800-889-2047 for free assistance. If you have trouble communicating due to your disability, the Vermont Communication Support Project offers free support in legal and administrative settings—call 1-888-686-8277 or email csp@disabilityrightsvt.org.[3]
Yes, both programs have work incentives that let you earn some income without losing benefits. The amount you can earn changes each year. Always report income to Social Security to avoid overpayments. For more, see the **SSI & SSDI Work Incentives** guide.
It often takes 3–5 months to get a decision. If denied, you can appeal. Each appeal step can take several more months.
SSI is for people with limited income/resources; SSDI is for workers who paid into Social Security. See the **SSI vs SSDI** guide for details.
Yes, Medicaid covers many services, and HCBS waivers can pay for home- and community-based care. Eligibility depends on income, disability, and clinical need.
You have the right to appeal any denial. Vermont Legal Aid can help you request reconsideration, a hearing, or file a complaint if your rights are not respected. Call 1-800-889-2047.[3]
Yes, apply to 3SquaresVT. Vermonters with disabilities on SSI may get higher benefits and face less strict resource tests.[1]
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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Vermont’s developmental disability services and Medicaid may help cover assistive technology and durable medical equipment. Contact your local Designated Agency for support.[3]
The Vermont Communication Support Project offers free help for people with communication disabilities in legal and administrative settings. Call 1-888-686-8277 or email csp@disabilityrightsvt.org.[3]
