Living with a disability day to day requires aid from caregivers, adaptive equipment, and many other costly measures. Here are some of the helpful financial resources I’ve found, and ways of dealing with financial burdens related to having a disability. While many of these tips are oriented to Wisconsin programs, as my experience is as a Wisconsin resident, other states may have similar programs. Feel free to share any tips you may have as well.
Suplemental Security Income – SSI
This is a Federal benefit intended for those with disabilities to help provide aid for basic cost of living. While this is handy for those without jobs who are trying to pay the bills, the $2000 asset limit, and the earnings limits make this a hard resource to sustain, short of providing Medicaid coverage. For those who are working, there may be other options (see Medicaid Purchase Plan). Here’s a helpful presentation discussing SSI, Medicaid, and the Medicaid Purchase Plan (http://www.uwosh.edu/ccdet/DHFS/lc/ir/EBD_Over_Non_Elig/Part_4_MAPP.pdf)
Medicaid Purchase Plan (Wisconsin Residents)
The Medicaid Purchase Plan is a plan available to Wisconsin residents who are working and would qualify for SSI but may have earnings greater than SSI allows. The Medicaid Purchase Plan allows for up to $15,000 in assets, and the creation of Independence Accounts, which are not counted toward the $15,000 limit. Independence Accounts can be created toward goals such as: college expenses, an adapted vehicle, a house, etc.
For further details see the Medicaid Purchase Plan (MAPP) page,
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