People in Wisconsin with mobility impairments can access federal and state benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and work incentives. Disability Benefits Specialists at local ADRCs help with applications and appeals. Wisconsin also offers Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts for extra support.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Wisconsin, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need enough work credits from jobs covered by Social Security. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your income and resources must be below certain limits. Both programs require a formal disability determination from the Social Security Administration (SSA) or Wisconsin’s Disability Determination Bureau (DDB). Medicaid eligibility depends on income, resources, and disability status. Medicare is available if you receive SSDI for 24 months or meet other criteria. (Source: SSA.gov, DHS.WI.gov, 2025-11-06)
In Wisconsin, adults ages 18–59 with mobility impairments can get help from Disability Benefits Specialists at local Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs). These specialists assist with SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, Medicare, FoodShare, and other programs. Wisconsin also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, such as the Family Care Partnership and IRIS programs. To qualify for these waivers, you must meet both federal disability criteria and Wisconsin’s functional and financial requirements. Wisconsin’s Medicaid Purchase Plan (MAPP) helps people with disabilities buy Medicaid coverage if they don’t qualify for regular Medicaid. (Source: DisabilityRightsWI.org, DHS.WI.gov, 2025-11-06)
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. In Wisconsin, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. The first $100,000 in an ABLE account does not count against SSI resource limits. ABLE accounts can be used for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and transportation. (Source: SSA.gov, 2025-11-06)
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple in 2025. Wisconsin’s Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size. For example, the Family Care Partnership limit is about $2,742/month for an individual in 2025. The earnings limit for WRS disability benefits is $20,757 in 2025. Earning more than this can suspend your disability benefit. (Source: SSA.gov, ETF.WI.gov, DHS.WI.gov, 2025-11-06)
You must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. To avoid overpayments, report changes right away and keep records of all reports. If you get an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or appeal. (Source: SSA.gov, DHS.WI.gov, 2025-11-06)
Disability Benefits Specialists at local ADRCs offer free help with applications, appeals, and understanding benefits for people with mobility impairments in Wisconsin.
Federal and state disability programs may be affected by proposed budget changes. Check official sources for updates on program funding and eligibility.
SSI is for people with low income and resources, while SSDI is for people who have worked and paid into Social Security. Both programs require a disability that prevents work for at least 12 months. SSI is based on financial need, SSDI on work history.
You can apply for Medicaid online through Wisconsin’s ACCESS system, by phone, or with help from your local ADRC. You’ll need to provide proof of income, resources, and disability. The ADRC can help you fill out the application and gather documents.
Medicaid waivers let people with disabilities get home and community-based services instead of nursing homes. Wisconsin offers waivers like Family Care Partnership and IRIS. These programs have their own eligibility rules and require a separate application.
Yes, you can work while getting disability benefits, but there are limits. For SSI, you can earn up to $943/month in 2025. For SSDI, you can work during a trial period. Work incentives help you keep benefits while working.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. In Wisconsin, you can use it for qualified expenses like housing, education, and transportation. The first $100,000 does not count against SSI resource limits.
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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Report changes in income, resources, or living situation right away. Keep records of all reports. If you get an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or appeal. Reporting changes helps avoid overpayments.
Wisconsin offers prescription drug assistance through Medicaid, Medicare Part D, and the Medicaid Purchase Plan. Disability Benefits Specialists at ADRCs can help you apply and understand your options.
If your benefits are denied, you can appeal. Disability Benefits Specialists at ADRCs can help you with the appeal process. You may also get help from Disability Rights Wisconsin.
Wisconsin offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, like Family Care Partnership and IRIS. These programs help people with mobility impairments live independently. ADRCs can help you apply.
You can find your local ADRC by visiting the ADRC website or calling 1-877-847-7597. ADRCs offer free help with benefits, applications, and appeals for people with disabilities.
