Childhood to Early Adult Resources

Resources by Age

Dec 26

As children grow into adolescence their needs change. By continuing to seek support throughout their school years, children will transition more successfully into an independent adulthood.

Government Programs

Formal support structures are, in many ways, the most common when a child is in the school system. He or she has teachers and support staff to assist in day-to-day activities. In addition to those in-school supports, there are several government programs designed to provide benefits for children prior to their 18th birthday. Explore the resources below for an introduction to some of these programs:

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Medicaid and Medicaid Waivers

Hoosiers, across a wide range of ages and income levels, may be eligible for medical benefits through Medicaid and Medicaid Waivers. While Indiana's Medicaid and Medicaid Waiver programs can feel complicated, using the information found in this article, you’ll gain an understanding of what these programs are, how you can apply for benefits, and much more.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a Social Security Administration (SSA) benefit program that provides monthly income for low-income individuals who are blind, disabled, or over 65 years old. Eligibility for SSI includes rules based on how many assets you own as well as the income you earn.

SSI benefits are paid monthly through a direct deposit in a bank account the beneficiary owns. Beneficiaries can also receive benefits through a Direct Express® Debit MasterCard® account which doesn’t require a bank account but allows you to access your benefits with a debit card.

The Arc Master Trust

The Arc of Indiana created The Arc of Indiana Master Trust to help individuals with disabilities and their families establish a legal instrument called a Pooled Special Needs Trust. There are two types of trusts available from The Arc of Indiana Master Trust, Trust I and Trust II. These trusts allow third-parties and first-party contributions, respectively.

Pooled special needs trust allow groups of individuals to pool resources to benefit from professional support in managing and administering special needs trusts. The Arc of Indiana Master Trust has an online portal to help individuals and families manage the assets held in the trust. These trusts are designed to help individuals continue receiving benefits from government assistance programs while being able to maintain a higher quality of life than they otherwise would be able to enjoy.

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services (Voc. Rehab.)

State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) services help individuals with disabilities get job-related skills in order to find and retain employment. The services are wide-ranging and tailored to the individual’s specific needs. Employment service providers across the state provide the services to individuals who are eligible for the program.

The majority of individuals who apply for Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) services (approximately 80%) are found to have the “most significant disabilities” and are eligible to receive services without delay, according to federal law.

Grace Kestler

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