Wyoming residents with deaf-blindness can access both federal and some state-supported benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid for Employed Individuals with Disabilities, and ABLE accounts, even though no state disability program exists. Read below for eligibility, application steps, and local contacts—tailored for sensory disabilities.
To get disability benefits for deaf-blindness, you must prove you cannot work for at least 12 months due to your condition. For SSDI, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes long enough (usually 40 credits, 20 in the past decade)[6]. For SSI, you must have low income and limited resources, and you must meet Social Security’s strict definition of disability[6].
Common eligibility steps:
Temporary, partial, or expected-to-improve disabilities generally do not qualify for SSI or SSDI, unless they last at least a year.
Wyoming does not have a state-funded disability program for Deaf-Blindness, but you may qualify for Wyoming Medicaid through the EID (Employed Individuals with Disabilities) program if you are employed and meet Social Security’s definition of disability, including conditions like deaf-blindness[1]. For the EID program, you must:
No other special state programs or waivers exist for Deaf-Blindness—focus on federal benefits and general Medicaid options.
If you have Deaf-Blindness and live in Wyoming, here’s how to start:
1. Federal benefits (SSI/SSDI):
2. Medicaid (EID Program):
3. After approval:
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are the main federal programs for Deaf-Blindness. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid into Social Security, while SSI is for those with low income and limited resources[5]. Both require a disability that prevents work for at least 12 months[2].
Medicare and Medicaid may also cover medical care, assistive technology, and in-home supports for sensory disabilities, depending on eligibility[1].
Veterans with service-connected disabilities can also receive benefits through the VA, sometimes in addition to SSI or SSDI[3].
ABLE accounts help you save for disability-related expenses without losing federal benefits. Wyoming does not offer its own ABLE program, but you can enroll in a national ABLE account program.
Wyoming does not offer a separate state disability program or Deaf-Blindness waiver—all support comes from federal programs and Medicaid[2].
Wyoming Medicaid’s Employed Individuals with Disabilities (EID) program is a key option for working adults with disabilities, including Deaf-Blindness. This program allows you to retain Medicaid even if you earn more than usual income limits, by paying a monthly premium[1]. To qualify, you must be employed, have a verified disability (including sensory disabilities like Deaf-Blindness), be 16–64, and meet income guidelines[1].
Wyoming Medicaid (non-EID): If you do not qualify for the EID program, you may still qualify for standard Medicaid, but income and asset limits are stricter.
Other resources: Wyoming’s Department of Workforce Services Disability Determination Services helps process SSI/SSDI claims, but you must still apply directly with SSA[5]. The state does not offer specialized waivers or programs for Deaf-Blindness beyond these general options.
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for disability expenses without affecting eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Wyoming does not have its own ABLE program, but you can open an account through a national ABLE program. These accounts help cover costs such as assistive technology, education, housing, and transportation—especially helpful for people with Deaf-Blindness.
SSI has strict income limits, but not every type of income counts. For SSDI, there are no income limits, but work credits and recent employment are required[6]. Medicaid eligibility in Wyoming varies—under the EID program, income limits are higher (up to 300% of the Federal Benefit Rate), and earned income is exempt[1].
Every year, income and asset limits change—check with SSA or Wyoming Medicaid for the latest numbers.
Overpayments happen if you get more benefits than you qualify for, often due to unreported changes in income, living situation, or health. If you receive an overpayment notice, you must pay it back or request a waiver. Always report changes promptly to SSA and Medicaid to avoid overpayments.
If you are employed and have Deaf-Blindness, Wyoming’s EID Program may let you keep Medicaid even with higher income—something rare in other states. You’ll pay a monthly premium, but it’s a valuable bridge for those working with significant sensory disabilities[1].
No—Wyoming does not offer state disability programs or waivers for Deaf-Blindness. Use federal SSI, SSDI, and Wyoming Medicaid, especially the EID program for employed individuals.
Yes—Wyoming’s EID program allows employed individuals with disabilities, including Deaf-Blindness, to qualify for Medicaid by paying a monthly premium based on income[1].
Apply online at SSA.gov, call 1-800-772-1213, or visit a Social Security office. Gather medical records and, for SSDI, your work history. Expect a months-long process, with a chance to appeal denials[2][3].
The average SSDI payment is around $1,366 per month; SSI averages about $548 per month, but amounts vary based on your work history (SSDI) or income/resources (SSI)[2].
Yes—you can receive both SSDI and VA disability payments at the same time, as they are separate programs[3].
Wyoming does not have its own ABLE program, but you can use a national ABLE account to save for disability expenses without losing federal benefits.
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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SSDI cases are reviewed at least every three years; if your condition is not expected to improve, reviews may be every five to seven years. SSI and Medicaid may review more frequently[3].
You can request a reconsideration, then a hearing with an administrative law judge, and further appeals if needed. Legal help can improve your chances[3].
Report any changes to the SSA and/or Medicaid right away to prevent overpayments or loss of benefits.
Under the EID program, income can be up to 300% of the Federal Benefit Rate. Earned income is excluded in eligibility. For regular Medicaid, limits are much lower[1].
