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Nebraska • Speech/Language
People with aphasia in Nebraska may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI if their condition prevents them from working. State programs also offer support for those who don’t meet federal requirements. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and available resources.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with aphasia, your condition must prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at how your aphasia affects your ability to communicate, understand, remember, and perform daily tasks. Even if aphasia is not listed in the SSA’s official list of impairments, you may still qualify if you can prove it severely limits your ability to work. For SSDI, you must have enough work credits. For SSI, your income and resources must be below certain limits[1][2][7].
In Nebraska, people with aphasia who do not qualify for federal benefits may still get help through state programs. The Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD) program offers financial and medical support to those whose disability is expected to last less than 12 months. The Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS) program provides up to $400 per month for services like counseling, home modifications, and personal care. Eligibility is based on a severe, chronic disability diagnosed by a licensed professional. These programs help people with aphasia live independently and access needed services[4][6].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Nebraska, you can open an ABLE account to pay for qualified disability expenses like therapy, education, and housing. Contributions are tax-free, and earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free. This can help people with aphasia manage their finances and plan for the future[1].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly benefit is $967. To qualify, your income and resources must be below certain limits. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) from work. If you earn more, you may not be considered disabled. State programs like AABD and DPFS have their own income and resource limits[2][7].
If your condition or income changes, you must report it to SSA and DHHS. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments, which you may have to repay. Keep records of all communications and changes. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact SSA or DHHS to discuss repayment options[1][2][4].
Contact your local Social Security office or the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services for help with applications and questions. Local nonprofits and disability advocates can also provide support.
Yes, aphasia can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it severely limits your ability to work and live independently. You must provide medical evidence showing how your condition affects your daily life and ability to communicate[1][2][7].
You need a detailed report from your doctor or speech therapist describing your aphasia, how it affects your communication and daily activities, and why you cannot work. Include test results and treatment history[1][2][7].
Gather your medical records, contact Social Security to apply for SSI or SSDI, and check with DHHS for state programs if you are denied. Local agencies can help with forms and applications[1][2][4][6][7].
Nebraska offers AABD for those with short-term disabilities and DPFS for those with severe, chronic disabilities. These programs provide financial and medical support, counseling, and home modifications[4][6].
Yes, work incentives allow you to try working without losing benefits. If you earn more than $1,620 per month, you may no longer qualify for SSDI. SSI has different rules and may reduce your benefit if you work[1][3][7].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked enough to earn work credits. Both can help people with aphasia if their condition prevents substantial work[1][2][7].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
SSI pays up to $967 per month in 2025. SSDI payments vary based on your work history. State programs like AABD and DPFS offer additional support based on your needs and income[2][4][6].
Yes, you must report any changes in your condition, income, or living situation to SSA and DHHS. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments, which you may have to repay[1][2][4].
Yes, children with severe aphasia may qualify for SSI if their condition seriously limits their activities. Parents should apply through Social Security and provide medical evidence[2][7].
Services include speech therapy, counseling, home modifications, and personal care. Medicaid waivers and state programs like DPFS can help pay for these services[4][6].
