Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Benefits in Nebraska

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, your condition must prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) looks for medical proof that your symptoms are severe and long-lasting. Even if Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is not listed in the SSA’s official guide, you can still qualify if you show it is as severe as a listed condition. You must also meet income and work credit rules, depending on the program.

• SSDI: Requires enough work credits and a disability expected to last 12+ months.
• SSI: Based on financial need and disability, regardless of work history.
• Both programs require proof that your condition stops you from working at a substantial level.

If you are blind, disabled, or over 65, you may qualify for cash assistance and Medicaid in Nebraska.

Sources: SSA Disability Qualifications, Nebraska Total Care SSI/SSDI

In Nebraska, people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may qualify for state disability programs if they are denied federal benefits. The Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD) program offers financial help and medical coverage for those whose disability is expected to last less than 12 months or who do not meet federal income rules. The Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS) program provides up to $400 per month for services like home modifications, counseling, and personal care for those with severe, chronic disabilities.

• AABD: For those denied SSI due to short-term disability or income.
• DPFS: For those with severe, chronic disabilities diagnosed by a licensed professional.
• Both programs require medical documentation and may help with living expenses and support services.

Sources: Nebraska DHHS AABD, Nebraska DHHS DPFS

• Gather medical records showing your Chronic Fatigue Syndrome diagnosis and how it limits your daily life.
• Decide if you need SSI (financial need) or SSDI (work history).
• Fill out the online application at SSA.gov or visit your local Social Security office.
• For state programs, contact Nebraska DHHS or your local Area Agency on Aging.
• Ask for help from Nebraska Total Care or a benefits counselor if needed.

• Step 1: Collect all medical records, doctor’s notes, and test results related to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
• Step 2: Review eligibility for SSI (based on income and disability) or SSDI (based on work credits and disability).
• Step 3: Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. Be ready to describe how your condition affects your ability to work.
• Step 4: If denied federal benefits, apply for state programs like AABD or DPFS through Nebraska DHHS.
• Step 5: Submit all required forms and documentation. Follow up regularly and respond to requests for more information.
• Step 6: If approved, you may receive cash benefits, Medicaid, and support services. If denied, you can appeal the decision.
• Step 7: Report any changes in income, living situation, or health to avoid overpayments.

Sources: SSA Apply for Disability, Nebraska DHHS AABD, Nebraska DHHS DPFS

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For those with enough work credits and a qualifying disability.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For those with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or over 65.
• Medicaid: For those who qualify for SSI or meet state Medicaid rules.
• Medicare: For those who receive SSDI for 24 months.
• Work Incentives: Programs that let you try working without losing benefits.

Sources: SSA Disability Programs, SSA Work Incentives

• Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD): Provides cash payments and medical coverage for those denied SSI due to short-term disability or income.
• Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS): Offers up to $400/month for services like home modifications, counseling, and personal care for those with severe, chronic disabilities.
• Nebraska Medicaid Waivers: Help with home and community-based services for those with disabilities.
• State Disability Program (SDP): For those determined blind or disabled by the State Review Team.

Sources: Nebraska DHHS AABD, Nebraska DHHS DPFS, Nebraska Medicaid Waivers

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 medical care, education, and housing. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed. ABLE accounts do not affect SSI or Medicaid eligibility as long as the balance stays under $100,000.

Sources: Nebraska ABLE

• SSDI: Not based on income, but working and earning more than $1,620/month ($2,700 if blind) in 2025 is considered substantial work and may affect eligibility.
• SSI: Based on financial need. In 2025, the federal limit is $967/month for an individual. State supplements may apply.
• AABD: For those denied SSI due to income or short-term disability.

Sources: SSA Income Limits, Nebraska Total Care SSI/SSDI

You must report changes in income, living situation, or health to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes as soon as possible to avoid penalties. Keep records of all reports and communications with Social Security and state agencies.

Sources: SSA Reporting Changes, Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes (internal)

• Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
  Phone: 1-800-383-4278

  Website

  For state disability and Medicaid programs.
• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Website

  For federal disability benefits.

• Can Chronic Fatigue Syndrome qualify for disability in Nebraska?

  Yes, if your Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months. You must provide medical proof and meet federal or state program rules.

• What medical evidence do I need for a disability claim?

  You need records from doctors, test results, and notes showing how Chronic Fatigue Syndrome limits your daily activities and ability to work.

• How do I apply for SSI or SSDI in Nebraska?

  Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You can also get help from Nebraska Total Care or a benefits counselor.

• What if I am denied federal disability benefits?

  You can appeal the decision or apply for state programs like AABD or DPFS, which may help if your disability is short-term or you do not meet federal income rules.

• Can I work while receiving disability benefits?

  Yes, work incentives let you try working without losing benefits. If you earn more than $1,620/month ($2,700 if blind), your benefits may be affected.

• What state programs are available for people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

  Nebraska offers AABD for cash and medical help, DPFS for support services, and Medicaid waivers for home and community-based care.

• How much money can I get from SSI in Nebraska?