What are the disability benefits in Rhode Island?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 05/09/2025
If you're living in Rhode Island and unable to work due to a physical or mental condition, you may qualify for disability benefits through federal and state programs. These benefits can provide essential income, health coverage, and supportive services while you manage your condition.

Understanding your options and how to apply is the first step toward securing the help you need.
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Federal Disability Programs in Rhode Island
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- SSDI is for individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes.
- You must have a qualifying medical condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
- Monthly payments depend on your work history and earnings.
- SSDI recipients in Rhode Island may become eligible for Medicare after 24 months.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- SSI is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources.
- You don’t need to have a work history.
- In Rhode Island, SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid, which helps cover medical expenses.
State Disability Benefits in Rhode Island
Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI)
- Rhode Island is one of the few states that offers a state-run temporary disability program.
- TDI provides short-term wage replacement for eligible workers unable to work due to non-work-related illness or injury.
- Funded by employee payroll deductions.
- You must have earned enough wages and contributed to the TDI fund to qualify.
Temporary Caregiver Insurance (TCI)
- TCI allows eligible workers to take time off to care for a seriously ill family member or bond with a new child.
- Provides up to six weeks of partial wage replacement.
- Also funded through the same payroll deductions as TDI.
Medicaid for the Disabled
- Available to low-income individuals who meet the state’s disability criteria.
- Covers a wide range of medical services, including prescriptions, hospital stays, and long-term care.
Rhode Island Office of Rehabilitation Services (ORS)
- Provides vocational rehabilitation for individuals with disabilities.
- Services include job training, counseling, and workplace accommodations.
How to Apply for Disability Benefits in Rhode Island
To apply for SSDI or SSI:
- Apply online at www.ssa.gov
- Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213
- Visit a local Social Security office
To apply for TDI or TCI:
- Apply through the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training at dlt.ri.gov
To apply for Medicaid or other state assistance:
- Visit healthsourceri.com or contact the Rhode Island Executive Office of Health and Human Services
How Hogan Smith Can Help
Navigating disability benefits can be complex—especially when multiple programs and agencies are involved. At Hogan Smith, we help Rhode Island residents understand which benefits they qualify for and ensure that applications are submitted accurately and completely.
We offer support with:
- Determining your eligibility for SSDI, SSI, TDI, TCI, and Medicaid
- Gathering the medical documentation needed to support your claim
- Completing applications correctly and on time
- Assisting with appeals if benefits are denied
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you’re unsure which disability benefits are available to you in Rhode Island or need help applying, reach out to Hogan Smith for a free consultation. We’re here to help you every step of the way—from understanding your options to winning the benefits you deserve.
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