If you live with epilepsy in Wisconsin, you may qualify for federal and state benefits such as SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and other supports. This guide explains who is eligible, how each program works, and how to apply—step by step. Start here to find your benefits and protect your rights.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, you must have a medical condition (like epilepsy) that is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months. For SSDI, you need enough work credits; for SSI, your income and resources must be very low[8]. If your epilepsy started before age 22, you may also qualify for SSDI "child" benefits on a parent's record[9]. Federal Medicaid rules require you to meet certain disability and income guidelines. Always report all income and medical changes, as these affect your eligibility and benefits.
In Wisconsin, people with epilepsy (ages 18–59) can get free help from Disability Benefits Specialists at local Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) to apply for and manage benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Medicare[1]. Wisconsin Medicaid has special programs (Family Care, IRIS) for people needing long-term supports, regardless of age, if you qualify medically and financially[7]. The state’s ABLE account program lets you save up to federal limits without losing benefits. If you are a state or university employee, Wisconsin Retirement System disability benefits may also be available[3]. For help, contact your county’s ADRC or DRW directly.
1. Collect your records: Gather medical records that show your epilepsy diagnosis, treatments, medications, and how it affects your daily life. Also, have your Social Security number, birth certificate, proof of income, and bank statements ready. 2. Apply for SSI/SSDI: You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 800-772-1213 (TTY: 800-325-0778), or in person at a local Social Security office[6][8]. If you need help, contact your county ADRC[1]. 3. Apply for Wisconsin Medicaid: Visit dhs.wisconsin.gov to apply for Medicaid, including special programs like Family Care and IRIS if you need long-term supports[7]. You can also call or visit your ADRC for assistance. 4. Check for other state benefits: If you work(ed) for the state, apply for Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) disability benefits through the Department of Employee Trust Funds[3]. 5. Follow up and appeal if needed: If your application is denied, appeal quickly. Your ADRC or Disability Rights Wisconsin can help[1][4]. 6. Stay organized: Keep copies of all forms, letters, and doctor notes. Report any income or health changes to Social Security and Medicaid right away to avoid overpayments.
Wisconsin residents with epilepsy that began before age 26 can open an ABLE account to save for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. Money in your ABLE account doesn’t count toward resource limits for these benefits. For more details, see our ABLE Accounts guide.
SSI: In 2025, the federal income limit for SSI is $943/month for individuals, but amounts may be lower depending on living situation and other income. Wisconsin does not add state supplemental payments for most adults. Medicaid: Income limits vary by program; some waivers allow higher income limits if you have high medical costs. WRS Disability: Benefit is reduced if you earn over $20,757 in 2025[3].
Always report any changes in income, household, or medical condition to Social Security and Medicaid promptly. Failing to report can cause overpayments, which you may have to pay back. For help managing reporting or appealing an overpayment, see our Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide and contact your ADRC[1].
You do not have to navigate benefits alone. Wisconsin’s Disability Benefits Specialists, based at local Aging and Disability Resource Centers, help people with epilepsy (ages 18–59) apply for and manage SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, Medicare, and more—all at no cost[1]. Contact your county ADRC today to get started.
If your income, living situation, or health changes, tell Social Security and Medicaid immediately. This helps you avoid overpayments, which you might have to pay back. Use our Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide for tips and step-by-step help. Local ADRCs can also help you report changes correctly.
SSI is for people with low income and resources, while SSDI requires enough work credits. Both programs require your epilepsy to prevent substantial work. See our SSI vs SSDI guide for details.
Apply online at dhs.wisconsin.gov, by phone, or in person. For help, contact your county Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC)[1][6].
Yes, but earnings over $20,757/year in 2025 may reduce or suspend WRS disability benefits[3]. SSI/SSDI have their own work incentives and limits—see our Work Incentives guide.
They help you apply for, manage, and appeal decisions on benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Medicare—all at no cost through your county ADRC[1].
Yes, programs like Family Care and IRIS offer home and community-based services if you meet medical and financial eligibility[7].
Contact your ADRC or Disability Rights Wisconsin for free help with appeals and hearings[1][4]. It is crucial to appeal quickly.
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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Yes, eligible people with epilepsy (onset before age 26) can have an ABLE account opened by a parent, guardian, or themselves. See our ABLE Accounts guide.
Disability Rights Wisconsin offers free legal help for people with disabilities, including epilepsy[4].
Yes, eligible state and university employees can apply for WRS disability benefits—short-term, long-term, or lifetime payments[3].
Visit dhs.wisconsin.gov to find your county ADRC’s contact information for free, in-person assistance with benefits[1].
