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Wisconsin • Neurological/Developmental
Wisconsin residents with Tourette Syndrome—a neurological condition that may cause significant disability—can access federal and state benefits for income, health care, and support. This guide explains SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, ABLE accounts, and how to connect with local resources for application help and advocacy.
To qualify for SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and earned enough work credits. Your Tourette Syndrome (or other condition) must prevent you from working for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death. For SSI (Supplemental Security Income), income and asset limits apply, and you must have a qualifying disability, regardless of work history. Children with disabilities may also qualify for benefits under parents’ work records if the disability began before age 22[9][10]. SSI and SSDI are for people whose disability severely limits their ability to work; milder cases may not qualify. The Social Security Administration has a strict definition of disability—consult their eligibility tool for details[9].
Wisconsin residents with Tourette Syndrome ages 18–59 can get free help from Disability Benefit Specialists at local Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs). These specialists assist with SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, Medicare, FoodShare, and more. Wisconsin also offers Medicaid waiver programs like Family Care and IRIS, which provide long-term supports so you can live independently. For state employees, the Wisconsin Retirement System provides disability benefits if you become disabled while working. Eligibility for these programs depends on your disability’s severity, income, and other factors. Contact your local ADRC for guidance tailored to your situation—they can help determine if you qualify and walk you through the application process[1][4][6].
If you think your Tourette Syndrome limits your ability to work, start by contacting your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC)—they offer free help with applications for SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and other benefits[1][4][6]. You can apply for SSI/SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. For Wisconsin Medicaid, use the Access website or your ADRC. For state employee disability benefits, log in to the ETF My Benefits portal or call ETF directly[3].
SSI and SSDI are the main federal cash benefits for adults with disabilities like Tourette Syndrome. SSI is needs-based, while SSDI is based on work history[9]. Medicare provides health coverage after a 24-month waiting period for SSDI recipients. Medicaid offers health care and long-term supports, sometimes through special waivers. The Ticket to Work program helps beneficiaries explore employment without losing benefits. ABLE accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without affecting eligibility for SSI or Medicaid[6].
Wisconsin offers several key programs for adults with Tourette Syndrome:
For help with these programs, contact your local ADRC—they’re the central hub for disability benefits in Wisconsin[1][4][6].
ABLE accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities. Wisconsin residents can use ABLE accounts to save for housing, education, health care, and more—funds in these accounts generally don’t count against SSI or Medicaid eligibility. ABLE accounts are a smart way to build financial independence while keeping your benefits[6].
For SSI, strict income and asset limits apply—most single applicants can’t have more than $2,000 in countable resources. SSI & SSDI Work Incentives allow you to earn some money without losing all your benefits. For state employee disability, earnings above $20,757 (2025) may suspend your benefit[3]. Always report income changes to avoid overpayments.
If you get more benefits than you’re eligible for (an overpayment), you may have to pay it back. Report changes in income, living situation, or medical condition right away to the agency administering your benefits. For Wisconsin Retirement System disability, submit annual forms to keep your benefit active[3]. See our guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes for details.
Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) offer free, one-on-one help with applications for SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, Medicare, FoodShare, and more. Their Disability Benefit Specialists know Wisconsin’s programs and can guide you through complex processes—especially helpful if you’ve been denied benefits before. Find your local ADRC for personalized support[1][4][6].
Wisconsin residents with disabilities can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. Money in these accounts generally doesn’t affect your SSI or Medicaid eligibility, helping you build financial independence[6].
Your condition must severely limit your ability to work for at least 12 months. Severity, not diagnosis alone, determines eligibility. Contact your local ADRC or Disability Benefit Specialist for a free assessment[1][4][6].
Yes, both SSI and SSDI have work incentives. You can earn some income without losing all benefits. Always report earnings to avoid overpayments—ask your ADRC or see our [SSI & SSDI Work Incentives](/guides/work-incentives) guide[3][6].
Medicaid is a state-federal health program based on income and need; Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65+ or those with certain disabilities (after a 24-month SSDI waiting period). Many people qualify for both. See our [Medicaid vs Medicare](/guides/medicaid-vs-medicare) guide.
An ABLE account lets you save for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Funds can pay for housing, education, health care, and more[6]. Learn more at our [ABLE Accounts](/guides/able-accounts) guide.
You have the right to appeal. Contact your ADRC or Disability Rights Wisconsin—they can help with appeals and representation at hearings[1][4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or medical advice. Benefit programs and eligibility rules can change. Always verify information with the administering agency or a qualified professional.
Yes, the Ticket to Work program helps SSI/SSDI recipients explore employment. Wisconsin’s ADRCs can also connect you to vocational services and work incentives[6].
Yes. Disability Benefit Specialists at ADRCs provide free help with applications, appeals, and understanding your rights[1][4][6].
Family Care and IRIS are waivers that provide long-term supports, like personal care and therapies, to help you live independently. Eligibility depends on your needs and income[8].
Contact the agency administering your benefit immediately. For SSI/SSDI, call Social Security. For Wisconsin Retirement System disability, submit annual forms to ETF[3].
Start with your local ADRC. For a full list, visit our [All benefits in your state](/benefits/wisconsin) page.
