Disability Resources in Wisconsin
Last updated September 29, 2026
Wisconsin residents living with physical, developmental, or mental health disabilities have access to a range of federal and state-administered programs that can help cover medical costs, daily living expenses, housing, employment, and more. Navigating these systems can feel overwhelming, but connecting with the right starting point makes a significant difference. Calling 2-1-1 Wisconsin (dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211) is one of the fastest ways to get matched with local disability services, benefits counselors, and community organizations in your county.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) oversees many of the state's core disability programs, including Medicaid-funded long-term care waivers and community support services. Eligibility and available programs vary by age, disability type, and income, so reaching out to your county's Department of Human Services or Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) is an important early step. ADRCs serve as a single point of entry for older adults and people with disabilities seeking information, benefits counseling, and care coordination across Wisconsin.
If you are in crisis at any point, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988) provides free, confidential support around the clock. For veterans with disabilities, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a separate set of disability compensation, health care, and rehabilitation services. The resources listed below cover the most widely used programs — but your local ADRC or a 2-1-1 specialist can help identify additional supports specific to your situation and county.
Key programs in Wisconsin
Wisconsin Medicaid & Long-Term Care Waivers (Wisconsin DHS)
Medicaid covers doctor visits, hospitalizations, prescriptions, and behavioral health services for eligible low-income residents with disabilities. Wisconsin also administers Medicaid-funded home and community-based waiver programs (such as IRIS and Family Care) that help adults with disabilities pay for personal care, supported employment, and residential supports so they can live as independently as possible.
How to access: Apply for Medicaid through ACCESS Wisconsin at access.wi.gov or by contacting your county Department of Human Services. To explore long-term care waivers, contact your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) — find yours at dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc or by calling 2-1-1.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) & Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSDI provides monthly cash benefits to workers who have a qualifying disability and sufficient work history. SSI provides monthly income support for people with disabilities who have limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs are administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
How to access: Apply online at ssa.gov, call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), or visit your nearest Social Security office. Wisconsin also has free benefits counselors — called Work Incentive Planning and Assistance (WIPA) counselors — who can help you understand how work affects your benefits; ask 2-1-1 or your ADRC to connect you with one.
Wisconsin Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)
DVR helps people with physical, mental, or cognitive disabilities prepare for, find, and keep employment. Services may include vocational counseling, job training, assistive technology, and support for higher education. DVR is part of the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.
How to access: Apply online at dwd.wisconsin.gov/dvr or call DVR's central office at 1-800-442-3477. You can also walk into a local DVR office — locations are listed on the DVR website — or ask your county DHS or ADRC for a referral.
Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) of Wisconsin
ADRCs are county or regional centers that serve as a single access point for disability and aging services in Wisconsin. They provide free information, options counseling, benefits screening, referrals to Medicaid long-term care programs, and help navigating community resources — regardless of income or insurance status.
How to access: Find your local ADRC at dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc or by calling 2-1-1 Wisconsin. The national Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116) can also connect older adults with disabilities to Wisconsin's ADRC network.
SNAP (FoodShare Wisconsin) & Other Food Assistance
FoodShare Wisconsin is the state's name for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). It provides monthly electronic benefits to purchase groceries for households with low income, including people with disabilities. WIC (Women, Infants and Children) is also available for eligible pregnant women and children with disabilities under age five.
How to access: Apply for FoodShare at access.wi.gov, or visit your local county DHS office. For WIC, contact the Wisconsin WIC Program through your local health department or call 1-800-722-2295. Call 2-1-1 for help applying or for emergency food pantry locations near you.
Disability Resources resources for Wisconsin
Administration for Community Living (ACL)
NationwideFederal programs and resources supporting people with disabilities and older adults.
Social Security Disability (SSA)
NationwideApply for and manage Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and SSI benefits.
The Arc
NationwideAdvocacy and local chapter services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Other resources in Wisconsin
- Housing Assistance in Wisconsin
- Food Assistance in Wisconsin
- Utility Assistance in Wisconsin
- Transportation Assistance in Wisconsin
- Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance in Wisconsin
- Mental Health Resources in Wisconsin
- Domestic Violence Resources in Wisconsin
- Veteran Resources in Wisconsin
- Child & Family Assistance in Wisconsin
- Senior Resources in Wisconsin