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A place for youth to get started with information, resources and upcoming events. Meet our youth leaders or apply to be a youth leader!

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We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking "Accept", you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.

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MTM manages non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services for the state of Idaho. We provide rides free of charge for eligible Medicaid members.

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| Tool/Manual

I Want to Know About...

What is the Social Security Administration (SSA)?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides Americans financial protection and support throughout life's journey. SSA administers retirement, disability, survivor, and family benefits and enrolls individuals in Medicare. They also provide Social Security numbers, which are unique identifiers needed for individuals to work, handle financial transactions, and establish eligibility for certain government services.

What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

SSA provides Supplemental Security Income (SSI) monthly payments to people with disabilities and older adults who have little or no income and resources. In most states, but not all, receiving SSI qualifies someone for Medicaid. Adults and children might be eligible for SSI if they have:

Little or no income, and

Little or no resources, and

A disability, blindness, or are age 65 or older.

Can I work if I receive SSI?

Yes! One of SSA's highest priorities is to help disabled people take advantage of employment opportunities and achieve greater financial independence. Work incentives and employment supports help people with disabilities and blind SSI recipients go to work by minimizing the risk of losing their SSI or Medicaid benefits.

What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?

SSA provides Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) monthly payments to people who have developed a disability or who are blind and who are "insured" by workers' contributions to the Social Security trust fund. These contributions are based on someone's earnings (or those of your spouse or parents) as required by the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA).

Many people work while receiving benefits. Timothy Elliott is a disabled Veteran of the U.S. Navy who did not return to work for 10 years after his disability for fear of losing his benefits. With support and tools, he has successfully balanced working and receiving benefits for 20 years. Read Timothy's full story on the LEAD Center website.

Can I work if I receive SSDI?

Yes! After you start receiving SSDI, you may want to try working again. Work incentives can help you keep your cash benefits and Medicare while you test your ability to work. SSA has a publication, Working While Disabled: How We Can Help, that explains a beneficiary's rights and responsibilities when they receive SSDI.

I have an overpayment, what do I do?

If you received a letter in the mail that says you were overpaid Social Security benefits and need to pay SSA back, you can request a waiver at any time. You can ask SSA to waive repayment if you can't afford it and feel the error wasn't your fault, or if you believe the overpayment is unfair for another reason. If you think that you were not overpaid or if the amount of the overpayment is not correct, you may appeal by filing a request for reconsideration. The appeal request must be filed within 60 days of receiving the notice.

If SSA is currently withholding some or all of your cash payment and if you are unable to meet necessary living expenses, you can request that SSA readjust your current rate of withholding by submitting a Request for Change in Overpayment Recovery Rate.

Can I work and keep my medical benefits?

Many people believe that they will automatically lose their Medicare or Medicaid as soon as they obtain employment. Working, however, does not necessarily mean losing access to federal or state health care benefits because there are protections in place, called Medicare and Medicaid Employment Supports, that help working beneficiaries keep their benefits.

Can I have an Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) account and keep Medicaid?

An Achieving A Better Life Experience (ABLE) account allows you to save amounts above the SSI resource limit and keep means-tested benefits such as SSI, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and Medicaid. The SSI resource limit is $2,000 for an individual. In 2024, the ABLE account annual contribution limit is $18,000, but employed account owners can contribute more. Savings in the account up to $100,000 are not counted by the SSI program. Savings in the account exceeding $100,000 count toward the resource limit for SSI. A beneficiary's Medicaid continues with any amount of savings in the account up to the state ABLE account limit.

Kenley is a teenager with Down syndrome who is excited to make her own employment and financial decisions as she gets older. Kenley and her mother, Jennifer Casselman, often use digital tools to understand the interplay of Kenley's benefits, her ABLE account, and employment. Read Kenley's full story on the LEAD Center website.

Who can I contact if I have additional questions about working while receiving SSI or SSDI?

SSA has work incentives, including the Ticket to Work program, which may make it possible for people receiving SSI and/or SSDI to work and still receive monthly payments. You can visit ChooseWork.SSA.gov to learn more about Ticket to Work and other work incentives. You may also call the Ticket to Work Help Line if you have questions about work, benefits, or SSA work incentives: 1-866-968-7842, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET.

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Financial Toolkit: Frequently Asked Questions " LEAD Center

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I Want to Know About... What is the Social Security Administration (SSA)? The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides Americans financial protection and support throughout life's journey. SSA administers retirement, disability, survivor, and family benefits and enrolls individuals in Medicare. They also provide Social Security numbers, which are unique identifiers needed for individuals to work, handle [...]

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When your child turns 18 years old, they legally become an adult. This is an important time to consider their financial future - especially if they need additional care into adulthood. Here are 5 things that you need to know to prepare for this milestone:

1. Health and Welfare Decision-making

When your child becomes a legal adult, you can no longer make certain decisions for them about their health and welfare. However, you can stay involved through:

A Representative Payee: Social Security will determine who best serves as Representative Payee for your child's benefits.

Guardianship: This requires court involvement. It may be necessary if your child can't execute a power of attorney. Please consult an attorney for assistance.

2. Changes in Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Eligibility

SSI provides monthly payments to adults and children with a disability or blindness who have income and resources below specific financial limits.

When your child turns 18, Social Security will review their eligibility for continued SSI payments based on the disability rules for adults. For more information, please review the publication, What You Need To Know About Your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) When You Turn 18. We also encourage you to check out Social Security's Youth Resources page.

3. Education Transition s

If your child attended public school, they have a few options to continue their education after graduation, including:

Diploma: They may pursue further education in college or trade programs with Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Certificate: They may have the opportunity to continue in a transitional program in their high school even after they complete their senior year. Most are permitted to remain until they turn 22.

Employment: Local Vocational Rehabilitation Services can assist with employment options during pre-graduation IEP meetings.

4. Living Arrangements Supports

Once your child turns 18, they may choose or qualify for different living arrangements depending on the services they already receive. For example, if your child receives therapy services at school, how will they receive them once they transition out of school? They could receive them through a Medicaid Waiver or private insurance.

Qualification for respite services may also look different. Respite services allow family caregivers time to step away from their duties. It is essential you understand all the benefits and options available to your child after they complete high school before deciding on living arrangements and services.

5. Financial Protections

Special Needs Trust: Update estate planning documents before your child turns 18. Otherwise, inheritance may terminate your child's governmental benefits.

ABLE Account: You can deposit funds into this account up to a certain limit each year; however, there are limits on what its funding covers.

Children receiving benefits on a parent's record may continue to receive those benefits until age 19 if they're a full-time elementary or secondary school student. People who have a qualifying disability that began before age 22 may also be eligible to receive child's benefits at any age. For more information, please review the publication, Benefits for Children.

As your child turns 18, consider these issues while you navigate their financial future. For more information, please visit the Social Security website and contact the Special Needs Alliance.
Our posting of this blog does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of any non-Social Security organization, author, or webpages.
Thanks for your feedback!

Tags: Children, Disability, social security disability benefits

See Comments

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Margaret A. Graham, Esq., an attorney affiliated with Special Needs Alliance

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5 Things to Know When Your Child with Disabilities Turns 18 | SSA

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When your child turns 18 years old, they legally become an adult. This is an important time to consider their financial future - especially if they need additional care into adulthood.

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ALTERNATIVAS A LA TUTELA Y CONSERVATORÍA

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ALTERNATIVAS A LA TUTELA Y CONSERVATORÍA

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Applying for a Job - The Young Adults Guide Revised 2023

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The Toolbox for Self-Determination is a resource for parents to learn more about self-determination. It walks parents through the ways they can help their child become self-determined, and shows examples of the One-Pager, Good Day Plan and Goal Plan templates that can be used to aid in self-determination.

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The Toolbox for Self-Determination is a resource for parents to learn more about self-determination. It walks parents through the ways they can help their child become self-determined, and shows examples of the One-Pager, Good Day Plan and Goal Plan templates that can be used to aid in self-determination.

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CtLC- Vision Tool Family Perspective _2020

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The Arc's Self-Determination Scale - Adolescent version REV2013

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Understanding Guardianship and the Alternatives for Decision Making Support

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Guardianship is a relationship between a competent adult, agency, or institution and a ward. The ward is a person over the age of 18 with a disability that causes incompetency. Guardianship is meant to ensure the well being of the ward by allowing a competent individual to make decisions for the ward who is not capable of doing so.

Individuals who fit the legal definition of mental incapacity may suffer from:

A severe mental illness

An acquired brain injury

An intellectual disability

Conditions associated with old age

Conditions related to a stroke

Chronic intoxication

Dementia

Yet these conditions are not sufficient to classify the person as mentally incapacitated. Instead this judgment is made with regard to the person's ability to make an informed decision, and takes into consideration any harm or risk that the person may experience due to an inability to provide for or manage his or her personal affairs.

Avoiding Guardianship

Because guardianship is a legal relationship, the court recognizes the guardian's right to make certain decisions for the ward in his or her best interest. By recognizing these rights as the guardian's, the court takes them away from the ward. For this reason, guardianship is only recommended when other alternatives have proven to be ineffective. Before considering guardianship, look into less restrictive ways to help your loved one make decisions, including conservatorships and power of attorney contracts.

If your loved one is capable of making informed decisions, he or she can avoid a possible guardianship situation by establishing:

A living trust in which the trustee can manage assets and no guardian of the estate is needed

A durable health care power of attorney

A durable power of attorney in which the designated can manage assets

Note: "Regular" or "non-durable" powers of attorney or health care powers of attorney don't rule out the potential of future guardianship, so make sure that any documents your loved one signs are "durable."
Assessing Your Loved One

By asking yourself the following four questions, you can informally assess your loved one's decisional capacity:

Does your loved one understand the circumstances surrounding a decision, and why a decision is called for?

Does your loved one understand the options available in making the decision?

Does your loved one understand the consequences of choosing certain options?

If your loved one understands the above, can he or she identify the appropriate person(s) to inform about the decision?

For a slightly more formal analysis of your loved one's mental capacity, review the official definition of mental incapacity given by the Guardianship and Administration Act of 1993:
The inability of a person to look after his or her own health, safety, or welfare or to manage his or her own affairs, as a result of (a) any damage to, or illness, disorder, imperfect or delayed development, impairment or deterioration, of the brain or mind; or (b) any physical illness or condition that renders the person unable to communicate his or her intentions or wishes in any manner whatsoever.
Because many states base their definition of mental incapacity on this law, it works as an informal definition, but you should check with an attorney for the specific rules governing guardianship in loved one's state.

Responsibilities

If the court finds a ward to be mentally incapacitated, a guardian is appointed to what is known as an "involuntary guardianship." Guardians also can be appointed for individuals who voluntarily elect to have another individual manage their affairs, which is known as "voluntary guardianship." Regardless, guardianships can be quite restrictive due to annual accountings, bonds, a large amount of court involvement, and regulations on how the ward's money can be spent and invested. For this reason, all alternates to guardianship should first be considered-except in cases where the ward has no trusted family members or friends. Because guardianship is so restrictive, the process offers these individuals a more secure way of appointing someone to help make their decisions.

Guardianship can be appointed for only the individual or for the individual and the individual's estate. The guardian can manage the entire estate (plenary guardianship) or specific responsibilities of the ward (limited guardianship). Ultimately, the guardian's role depends on the ward's level of incapacity and the specific laws that govern guardianship activities and proceedings in his or her state.

Generally, a guardian makes decisions related to the ward's medical treatment, living situation, property, and/or income. A guardian's rights and responsibilities may include:

Accessing the ward's confidential records and/or papers

Admitting the ward to a hospital or institution

Arranging and consenting to travel plans

Making living arrangements for the ward

Making decisions regarding the ward's education\Gifting the ward's money or property to others

Initiating, defending, or settling lawsuits

Lending or borrowing money

Making a will for the ward

Managing or possessing the ward's property or income

Paying or collecting debts

Refusing or consenting to medical procedures

© Copyright FamilyCare America, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Guardianship is a relationship between a competent adult, agency, or institution and a ward. The ward is a person over the age of 18 with a disability that causes incompetency. Guardianship is meant to ensure the well being of the ward by allowing a competent individual to make decisions for the ward who is not capable of doing so.

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Parents and caregivers have certain goals in mind when their children go to school. In order for your child to achieve these goals, there are certain decisions that you, as a parent, will have to make along the way.

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Parents and caregivers have certain goals in mind when their children go to school. In order for your child to achieve these goals, there are certain decisions that you, as a parent, will have to make along the way.

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6. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Work Incentives (2020)

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5. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) & Planning for Work (2020)

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4. What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?

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3. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) & Youth Who Work (2020)

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2. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) & Work (2020)

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1. What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)? (2020)

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2021 General Election Information

Click the following link to download the PDF containing 2021 General Election Information:
2021 General Election Information
Información sobre las elecciones generales de 2021

Eviction Moratorium Information
Please note if you have been affected by the ending of the eviction moratorium we are unable to assist with this issue. Please call:
Intermountain Fair Housing Council

4696 W. Overland Rd., Suite 140
Boise, Idaho 83705
Get directions 1-208-383-0695 or 1-800-717-0695 contact@ifhcidaho.org
Idaho Legal Aid

Apply for Help: Apply for our services by phone, Monday through Friday (excluding holidays), from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Mountain Time (9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time), by calling: (208) 746-7541.

Phone intake is closed from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. (Mountain Time) and 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (Pacific Time). However, you may click here to apply online at any time.

Public Policy Blog

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DisAbility Rights Idaho - Protection & Advocacy for Individuals with Disabilities

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Click the following link to download the PDF containing 2021 General Election Information: 2021 General Election Information Información sobre las elecciones generales de 2021 Please note if you have been affected by the ending of the eviction moratorium we are unable to assist with this issue. Please call: 4696 W.

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It costs $2,000 on average for Jesse Tree to keep a family housed, compared to $5-10,000 for a family to find new housing after being evicted.

We provide information and support to 300-400 tenant households per month on our phone line, and case management with rental or security deposit assistance to 100 households per month.

Over 90% of people being evictedcan't pay their rent due to an unanticipated expense or shortfall such as a health care bill, unexpected job loss, or car breakdown.

In 2021, there were 872 eviction hearings and 2,500 of our neighbors entered the homeless shelter system.

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It costs $2,000 on average for Jesse Tree to keep a family housed, compared to $5-10,000 for a family to find new housing after being evicted. We provide information and support to 300-400 tenant households per month on our phone line, and case management with rental or security deposit assistance to 100 households per month.

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Boise City/Ada County Housing Authorities

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The Boise City Housing Authority invites sealed bids from qualified contractors for the Shoreline Plaza North Roofing Project located at 617 S. 13th Street, Boise, ID 83702. The work consists of: Overlay of TPO and asphalt shingle roofing as described in the specifications prepared by BCACHA. Shoreline North Roof Bid Packet Original Roof Plan

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Home - Boise City/Ada County Housing Authorities

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Moore Street Site Affordable Housing Development The Boise City Housing Authority (BCHA) requests proposals (RFP) from qualified housing developers. Click here for details Emergency Rental Assistance Program Click here for application information or call (208) 363-9710. Notice on COVID-19 Response Click here to read BCACHA's response to protecting the public, our participants and staff.

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A CFH is a home that meets approval criteria set by the State of Idaho and is certified by the Idaho Department of Health & Welfare to care for between one and four adult residents who cannot live on their own. Certification as a CFH is required when a paid caregiver provides services to any vulnerable adult residing in the caregiver's home.

The focus of a CFH is to provide safe and effective care to residents in a homelike, family-style atmosphere, with an emphasis on protecting residents' rights and involvement with the community.
Health and safety are the top priorities of a CFH. To properly care for each resident, the CFH provider must:

Have the time and appropriate skills to provide the level of and types of services required to meet each resident's mental, emotional, and physical needs;

Ensure the home meets the resident's physical needs; and

Maintain compliance with environmental sanitation, fire/life safety, and physical home standards set for the CFH program.

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A CFH is a home that meets approval criteria set by the State of Idaho and is certified by the Idaho Department of Health & Welfare to care for between one and four adult residents who cannot live on their own.

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Operations During COVID-19

If you require assistance, information or support please visit our contact page for the office information closest to you. While we are operating under our normal business hours Monday- Friday 0800-1700, our staff is checking emails and voicemails after hours and on weekends and will return calls as soon as they are able. If you have an emergency please call 911.

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If you require assistance, information or support please visit our contact page for the office information closest to you. While we are operating under our normal business hours Monday- Friday 0800-1700, our staff is checking emails and voicemails after hours and on weekends and will return calls as soon as they are able.

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Free Disability Training for First Responders

Big Country News: CLARKSTON - On Saturday, February 26, all local LEO, fire, EMS, SAR and others interested are invited to attend a FREE training ...

Courageous Kids Climbing empowers youth

FRANKIE BEER, Evergreen Photographer January 18, 2022 When 15-year-old Caleb Hyndman first became involved with Courageous Kids Climbing, he never ...

May 21, 2021 Moscow Artwalk - Disability Action Center NW is seeking artists with disabilities of all ages to submit Artist Trading Cards of ...

Calling all artists with disabilities! You can create up to 5 artist trading cards for submission and be entered to win prizes and receive 5 new art cards ...

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Disability Action Center NW | Your Community. Your Access. Your Life.

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Big Country News: CLARKSTON - On Saturday, February 26, all local LEO, fire, EMS, SAR and others interested are invited to attend a FREE training ... FRANKIE BEER, Evergreen Photographer January 18, 2022 When 15-year-old Caleb Hyndman first became involved with Courageous Kids Climbing, he never ...

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Hello! Hey, we're glad you made it. This site is a place for you, your friends, and other teens. It's a welcoming community for all youth and a place where all youth belong. We want you to be here. This is your place, your space.

Here you can start thinking about what you want to do with the rest of your life. This Web site was built to help you plan for the future. What will you do after high school? Will you work? Go to college? Live in a place of your own? By using this Web site, you can plan for your future right now!

Click here to learn more, or you can register now! If you're already registered, log in (see top right) and get active!
Go for it, and thanks for coming to visit!

Knowing what bosses want is important! These are 21st century skills that, if gained and practiced, will help you stand out.

With which one of these skills do you need the most help?

Login or Register to vote!
About the Poll

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The Youthhood - Where teens prepare for life after high school

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Hello! Hey, we're glad you made it. This site is a place for you, your friends, and other teens. It's a welcoming community for all youth and a place where all youth belong. We want you to be here. This is your place, your space.

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This project was supported by Award No. 2013-DJ-BX-0052, 2014-DJ-BX-1166, and 2015-DJ-BX-1051 awarded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Justice Programs through the Idaho State Police. The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed on this website are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice or the Idaho State Police.

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Who is eligible, and who can open an ABLE account.

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What is an ABLE Account?

ABLE Accounts are savings accounts for people with disabilities. The passage of the Stephen Beck Jr., Achieving a Better Life Experience Act of 2014, or the ABLE Act, provides the opportunity to save money beyond typical resource limits.

Several thousand Idahoans with disabilities and their families depend on public benefits for health care, food, utility and housing assistance. ABLE accounts allow eligible Idahoans to save money to purchase qualified disability goods and services that will help them gain independence and choice without losing the assistance they need.

Idaho does not offer an ABLE Program at this time. However, eligible Idahoans with disabilities may sign up for an out of state program, if that state offers out of state enrollment.

The passage of House Bill 41, signed by the Governor on March 20, 2017 ( Idaho Statute §56-708), allows eligible people with disabilities to save up to $100,000 in an ABLE account without losing state, local and federal benefits. Savings in an ABLE account does not count when determining an Idaho resident's eligibility for a state or local assistance program/need-based state or local grant, as long as the ABLE account, and the activity related to it, is disregarded in determining the person's eligibility for a federal assistance program. This legislation also established, subject to appropriation, a function to provide individuals with disabilities, and those assisting them, technical assistance relating to the ABLE Act.

The Idaho State Independent Living Council (SILC) provides information and referral about the ABLE Act; and technical assistance regarding setting up an ABLE savings account in another state. The SILC provides limited individual financial literacy education as needed, as well as one-day financial literacy workshops scheduled regionally.

Brief Overview

ABLE Accounts are savings/investment accounts for people with disabilities. ABLE accounts provide the opportunity to save money and keep needed benefits.

Highlights

The beneficiary of the account owns the account.

Income earned by the accounts will not be Federally taxed.

Contributions to the account made by any person (the account owner, family and friends) will be made using post-taxed dollars and will not be tax deductible. Some states allow for state income tax deductions for contribution made to an ABLE account.

Idaho does not offer a state income tax deduction.

Money in an ABLE account does not count against the resource limits for SSI, Medicaid, and other State and Federal benefits.

Anyone who has a significant disability with a documented onset before turning 26 years of age is eligible to open an ABLE account.
This means...

They have a disability with functional limitations documented by a physician with letter of certification.
OR...

They receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
OR...

They are medically eligible for SSI or SSDI benefits, i.e. certain disabled children or working adults with disabilities who receive Medicaid benefits.

An ABLE account may provide more choice and control for the beneficiary and their family.

The cost of establishing an account will be less than Special Needs or Pooled Income Trusts.

Some programs offer investment and saving options, allowing greater flexibility for growth.

Determining which option is the best for you will depend upon your individual circumstances.

A person can have both an ABLE account AND a trust.

Annual Contributions

The total annual contributions by all individuals, including family and friends, for a single tax year is $16,000 (amount will be adjusted for inflation).

$16,000 is the maximum amount a person may gift another person without reporting it to the IRS (gift tax exclusion).

The ABLE to Work Act allows beneficiaries who are employed to contribute an amount equal to their current year gross income - up to $12,880 (as of 2022) each year - to their ABLE accounts in addition to the annual standard contribution limit. Keep in mind that if the beneficiary or their employer is contributing to a defined contribution plan (401K), annuity plan (403(b)), or deferred compensation plan (457(b)) this calendar year, the beneficiary is not eligible to make ABLE to Work contributions.

Limitations for SSI and other public benefits

The first $100,000 in an ABLE account is exempt from the SSI $2,000 individual resource limit.

When an ABLE account balance exceeds $100,000, the beneficiary's SSI cash benefit (and likely other public benefits) will be stopped until the account falls back below $100,000.

While the beneficiary's SSI cash benefit is suspended there is no loss of Medicaid eligibility or services.

Medicaid Payback

When an ABLE account owner passes away, the state Medicaid program may file a claim against the account to reclaim Medicaid related expenses.

A qualified disability expense is any expense related to an individual as a result of living with a disability.
Qualified Disability Expenses

Education

Housing

Transportation

Employment training and support

Assisstive Technology (ramps, computer software, eye glasses and more)

Personal Assistant Services

Health care expenses (not covered by insurance)

Financial management and administrative services

Basic living expenses: Currently the IRS has ruled that basic living expenses, including food, clothing and utilities, also qualify.

It is important to note that ALL expenses must be paid directly from the ABLE account. Transferring funds to a personal account may result in exceeding resource limits.

Several states have opened ABLE programs that allow eligible individuals nationwide to open an ABLE account regardless of where they live. When comparing State ABLE programs, you may want to consider the following questions to find the best one for you:
Opening an Account

What proof will the ABLE program need from you in order to open an account?

What proof will you need to show that your disbursements are qualified expenses?

Is there a minimum contribution to open an ABLE account?

Is there a fee to open an account? If so, how much is that fee?

Maintaining the Account and Fees

Is there a required minimum contribution to your account? If so, what is the amount?

Are the fees paid up front or are they reduced if you leave your money invested for several years?

Are there restrictions on how often you can withdraw money from your account?

Investment Opportunities

What investment options does the state ABLE program offer?

Will the options available meet your needs regarding growth, while limiting the risk you are willing to take with contributions to your ABLE account?

Does the state program offer incentives or additional benefits (such as a match or a rewards program, or financial literacy information for account holders) to help you save, contribute to your account, grow the account, and manage your invested dollars? If so, what is it? Most important, do you understand it?

Idaho does NOT offer an ABLE account program at this time. You may sign up for an out of state program if that state offers out of state enrollment. Currently there are 43 different programs with 26 open to out of state enrollment. Programs are being added all the time so don't forget to check back frequently.
State programs currently accepting out of state enrollment (as of August 29, 2019):
For help on which states are offering programs and information about these programs, contact the Idaho State Independent Living Council (SILC) for ABLE information and technical assistance.
Work Incentives Planning and Assistance Program (WIPA)
These videos, through the Idaho Department of Labor, are specific to Idaho.

How Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and employment can work together. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBqJda-k_2Oy25A2rTIWHvugGa28q0d77
DisAbility Rights Idaho
Upcoming Workshops

There are no upcoming events scheduled at this time.
DON'T WAIT! Start today by calling the Idaho SILC. Ask for ABLE Technical Assistance and Information. SILC Technical Assistance
The State Independent Living Council (SILC) provides Technical Assistance, information, and Financial Literacy training. Please contact us to learn more about ABLE today.

Contact us at:
Address: 120 S Cole Rd.
Boise, Idaho 83709
Phone: 208-334-3800
Email: jami.davis@silc.idaho.gov

Website: https://silc.idaho.gov/

The information enclosed is not a substitute for benefit planning, legal, or financial advice. Please consult with a qualified benefit planner, an attorney, or a qualified financial advisor should you have specific concerns related to opening an ABLE account.

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ABLE Accounts - State Independent Living Council

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What is an ABLE Account? ABLE Accounts are savings accounts for people with disabilities. The passage of the Stephen Beck Jr., Achieving a Better Life Experience Act of 2014, or the ABLE Act, provides the opportunity to save money beyond typical resource limits.

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Alternatives to Guardianship & Conservatorship 

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Alternatives to Guardianship & Conservatorship 

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A curated selection of materials we recommend on Supported Decision-Making.

We have identified outstanding tools, videos, and guides to help you understand Supported Decision-Making and make it work for you.

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Supported Decision-Making Gives People with Disabilities a Voice

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A curated selection of materials we recommend on Supported Decision-Making. We have identified outstanding tools, videos, and guides to help you understand Supported Decision-Making and make it work for you.

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Highlights

Morgan K. Whitlatch will be co-presenting two sessions at the upcoming National Disability Rights Network virtual annual conference
Morgan K. Whitlatch, Legal Director of Quality Trust for Individuals with Disabilities and Lead Project Director of the National Resource Center for Supported Decision-Making , will be co-presenting two sessions at the upcoming National Disability Rights Network virtual annual conference. The first, entitled "Implementing Lessons Learned from Supported Decision-Making Pilots," is on June 9, from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM EDT. The second, entitled "Guardianship and Voting Rights," is on June 10, from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM EDT. More information about the sessions and how to register can be found here.

We are pleased to announce that the National Resource Center for Supported Decision-Making is accepting applications for the third round of our State Grant Program.

We will be awarding grants for state-based projects that adopt an innovative approach to increase knowledge of and access to Supported Decision-Making by older adults and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities across the life course. For more details, please see the funding announcement. The application deadline is 11:59 PM EDT on August 17, 2018.

Another victory for Supported Decision-Making in the District of Columbia
For the first time in D.C., a guardianship of a senior has been terminated specifically in favor of Supported Decision-Making, thanks to the work of Quality Trust's Jenny Hatch Justice Project. When people use Supported Decision-Making, they work with friends, family members, and others they trust to help them understand the situations they face, so they can make their own decisions. The press release is also available at D.C. Senior Freed from Guardianship in Favor of Supported Decision-Making. Please help us spread the word about this success in advancing the "Right to Make Choices."

NEW Video Friends and staff at Williams County Board of Developmental Disabilities discuss decision-making, independence and the future

NEW Video Supported Decision Making from Transitions Tennessee

Webinars/Conferences

Guardianship and Supported Decision Making Webinar
Tina Campanella presents a webinar on Guardianship and Supported Decision-Making with Barbara Kleist from University of Minnesota - Twin Cities. This webinar is being sponsored by the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) and their Legal Advocacy and Process Interest Network.
Thursday, September 28, 2017

Highlights

NEW Video: Making Healthcare Choices: Perspectives of People with Disabilities
Produced by the American Civil Liberties Union

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Morgan K. Whitlatch will be co-presenting two sessions at the upcoming National Disability Rights Network virtual annual conference Morgan K. Whitlatch, Legal Director of Quality Trust for Individuals with Disabilities and Lead Project Director of the National Resource Center for Supported Decision-Making , will be co-presenting two sessions at the upcoming National Disability Rights Network virtual annual conference.

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Temporary Assistance for Families in Idaho (TAFI)

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Treasure Valley Public Transportation - Valley Regional Transit

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Valley Regional Transit is the Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA) for Ada County and Canyon County.

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Community Transportation Association of Idaho (CTAI)

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Community Transportation Association of Idaho (CTAI)

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The Community Transportation Association of Idaho (CTAI) and members are committed to building and supporting innovative and effective transportation options throughout the state of Idaho that enhance…

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The Intermountain Fair Housing Council (IFHC) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to ensure open and inclusive housing for all persons without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity, a source of income, or disability. The IFHC attempts to eradicate discrimination through, education on fair housing laws, housing information and referral, housing counseling, and assistance with mediating and or filing fair housing complaints, among other things. The IFHC also provides education and outreach on fair housing laws and practices to housing providers and others.
The IFHC:

Provides information and education services to housing consumers, housing providers, community organizations, and lending institutions.

Monitors fair housing compliance of housing providers, lending institutions, and local and state governments.

Engages in enforcement activities which include investigation, testing, and complaint filing with State or Federal authorities.

Negotiates fair housing settlements by mediation, conciliation, or litigation, if necessary.

Please give us a call.

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The Intermountain Fair Housing Council (IFHC) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to ensure open and inclusive housing for all persons without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity, a source of income, or disability.

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This may not be a popular message, but something should be said. Early in my career, working in this field, I learned something. It was very important to me to become an expert on certain topics. For example, when the ADA was enacted, I knew I had to become an expert on it, and I did.

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RISE Services, Inc. | Developmental Disability Services in Idaho

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RISE Services, Inc. serves Idaho with developmental and special needs services, including in-home care. Call (208) 376-4999 for more.

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Fighting unconscious bias toward disabilities thru employment, media, housing, volunteerism

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ABILITY Corps has created employment platforms for people with disabilities - accessible online job fairs and actors resource for casting opportunies. ABILITYJobFair.org and abilityE.com. Founding sponsors ABILITY Magazine and abilityJOBS.com.

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ABILITY Magazine is an award winning publication, providing new insights into our individual levels of ability.

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U.S. Veterans with disabilities bring extraordinary talent and experience to the workforce, and employers are noticing. Veterans are encouraged to join abilityJOBS and are reminded to indicate service on profiles and resumes. Employers are searching!

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The leading employment site for job seekers with disabilities. Employers now hiring local, nationwide and international.

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Connecting people with disabilities to employment opportunities

Your participation in the workforce is in demand. Find out what you need to know before you start a job search. Learn how to plan a successful job search. Discover what you and employers need to know about disabilities and accommodations in the workplace.

Explore and Prepare

Identify your resources, skills and career goals to develop a job search plan.

Job Search

Find the tools and support for all the details of a successful job search.

Job Seekers and Employers

Learn about accommodations, disclosure and disability rights and the law.

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Your participation in the workforce is in demand. Find out what you need to know before you start a job search. Learn how to plan a successful job search. Discover what you and employers need to know about disabilities and accommodations in the workplace.

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"For most of us,
technology makes things easier.
For a person with a disability,
it makes things possible."

- Judy Huemann, American Disability Rights activist and Former Assistant Secretary, US Department of Education, Office of Special Programs

A.T. Corner

Want to learn about
assistive technology options?

Locations

Visit one of our A.T. Resource Centers for hands-on demonstrations to try your options for the device, software, or app that is right for you.

IATP Services

We provide assistive technology resources and expertise to all Idahoans with disabilities through the following mechanisms:

The Idaho Assistive Technology Project is a federally funded grant project located at the Center on Disabilities and Human Development as part of the University of Idaho's College of Education, Health and Human Sciences. The Project was founded in 1992 and funded through the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, as amended. Our goal is to help Idahoans with disabilities acquire the assistive technology they need to live more independent lives.

IATP Newsletter

Would you like to receive emails about upcoming events, disability resources, and available AT services? Sign up for our free newsletter!

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"For most of us, technology makes things easier. For a person with a disability, it makes things possible." - Judy Huemann, American Disability Rights activist and Former Assistant Secretary, US Department of Education, Office of Special Programs Want to learn about assistive technology options? Visit one of our A.T.

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Learn more about the services that are available to eligible individuals through the VR program.

Learn more about the services available to high school and post-secondary school students to help prepare them for the workforce.

Learn more about IDVR's efforts to help employers gain access to this untapped workforce.

Learn more about IDVR's influence with customers in the public.

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is a state-federal program whose goal is to assist people with disabilities prepare for, secure, retain or regain employment.
If you have questions about VR services, please contact your local office to speak with someone, or read our FAQs page.

Our Vision

An Idaho where all individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to participate in the workforce and employers value their contributions.

Our Mission

To prepare individuals with disabilities for employment and career opportunities while meeting the needs of the employer.

State Rehabilitation Council

The Idaho State Rehabilitation Council monitors the policies and practices of the Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (IDVR).Working on behalf of Idahoans with disabilities, the Idaho State Rehabilitation Council endeavors to provide consumers, service providers and others the opportunity to participate in constructive dialogue and public input to continually improve the quality of Vocational Rehabilitation services to residents of Idaho.
Find out More about the SRC

Employer Request for Assistance

Employers who would like assistance with meeting their business needs can submit a request.

IDVR helps Idahoans with disabilities take their place in the workforce and in the community. These featured successes highlight a few stories of our job seekers and employers who tell their unique career journeys, in their own voices.

ver: 3.4.0 | last updated:

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Learn more about the services that are available to eligible individuals through the VR program. Learn more about the services available to high school and post-secondary school students to help prepare them for the workforce. Learn more about IDVR's efforts to help employers gain access to this untapped workforce. [...]

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Youth & Young Adults:
Are You Ready to Transition to Adult Care?

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Is Your Child Ready to Transition to Adult Care?

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Stay Connected with Got Transition!

Keep up to date on transition-related news and resources with our quarterly transition newsletter.

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Got Transition® aims to improve transition from pediatric to adult health care through the use of new and innovative strategies for health professionals and youth and families.

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Creating a world where people with disabilities have access to the resources and opportunities to live the life of our choosing.

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Stay up-to-date! Read our newsletter.
CIL Newsletter

Mark Leeper, Executive Director DAC WEBSITE

Main Office - Moscow

Serving Moscow and surrounding areas
505 N. Main Street
Moscow, ID 83843
208-883-0523 (voice/TTY)
208-883-0524 (fax)

Satellite - Post Falls

Serving Coeur d'Alene, Hayden, Post Falls, Bonners Ferry, Sandpoint, and surrounding areas
3726 E Mullan Avenue
Post Falls, ID 83854
208-457-3891 (voice)
208-457-3893 (fax)

Satellite - Lewiston

Serving Lewiston, Orofino, Grangeville, and surrounding areas
307 Nineteenth Street, Suite A-1
Lewiston, ID 83501
208-746-9033 (voice/TDD)
208-746-1004 (fax)

Jeremy Maxand, Executive Director LINC WEBSITE

Main Office - Boise

Serving Boise, Meridian, Garden City, Eagle, and surrounding areas
1878 W Overland Rd
Boise, ID 83705
208-336-3335 (voice/TTY)
208-384-5037 (fax)
info(at)lincidaho(dot)org

Satellite - Caldwell

Serving Caldwell, Nampa, and surrounding areas
4110 Easton Ave. Suite B,
Caldwell, ID 83607
208-454-5511 (voice)
208-454-5515 (fax)
info(at)lincidaho(dot)org

Satellite - Twin Falls

Serving Twin Falls and surrounding areas
182 Eastland Dr. North, Suite C
Twin Falls, ID 83301
208- 733-1712 (voice/TDD)
208-733-7711 (fax)
Melva Heinrich, Advocacy Director
mheinrich(at)lincidaho(dot)org

Michael Lefevor, Executive Director LIFE WEBSITE

Main Office - Pocatello

Serving Pocatello, Preston, and surrounding areas
460 Pershing Avenue, Suite A
Pocatello, ID 83201
208-232-2747 (voice/TTY)
208-232-2753 (fax)
Michael Lefevor, Executive Director
MLefevor(at)idlife(dot)org

Satellite - Blackfoot

Serving Blackfoot and surrounding areas
725 Jensen Grove Dr., Ste 5
Blackfoot, ID 83221
208-785-9648 (voice/TTY)
208-785-2398 (fax)
Priscilla Gutierrez, Independent Living Advisor
priscilla(at)idlife(dot)org

Satellite - Burley

Serving Burley and surrounding areas
2311 Park Avenue, Suite 7
Burley, ID 83318
208-678-7705 (voice/TTY)
208-678-7771 (fax)
Priscilla Gutierrez, Independent Living Advisor
priscilla(at)idlife(dot)org

Satellite - Idaho Falls

Serving Idaho Falls, Ammon, and surrounding areas
250 S. Skyline, Suite 1
Idaho Falls, ID 83402
208-529-8610 (voice/TTY)
208-529-6804 (fax)
Rachelle Lish, Independent Living Advisor
rachelle(at)idlife(dot)org

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Idaho Centers for Independent Living - State Independent Living Council

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Stay up-to-date! Read our newsletter. CIL Newsletter Mark Leeper, Executive Director DAC WEBSITE Main Office - Moscow Serving Moscow and surrounding areas 505 N.

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learn about transitioning to adult health care

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4. Adult Services and HI crosswalk 7.2019