Living with a disability day to day requires aid from caregivers, adaptive equipment, and many other costly measures. \u00a0Here are some of the helpful financial resources I’ve found, and ways of dealing with financial burdens related to having a disability. \u00a0While many of these tips are oriented to Wisconsin programs, as my experience is as a Wisconsin resident, other states may have similar programs. \u00a0Feel free to share any tips you may have as well.<\/p>\n
Suplemental Security Income –\u00a0SSI<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n This is a Federal benefit intended for those with disabilities to help provide aid for basic cost of living. \u00a0While 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. \u00a0For those who are working, there may be other options (see Medicaid Purchase Plan). \u00a0Here’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<\/a>)<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Medicaid Purchase Plan<\/span> (Wisconsin Residents)<\/p>\n 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. \u00a0The 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. \u00a0Independence Accounts can be created toward goals such as: college expenses, an adapted vehicle, a house, etc.<\/p>\n