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Nebraska • Sensory
People in Nebraska with deaf-blindness may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs for medical and financial support. Eligibility depends on medical severity, work history, and income.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Nebraska, you must have a medically determinable disability that prevents you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. Deaf-blindness is considered a severe sensory disability and is listed in the Social Security Administration’s Compassionate Allowances (CAL) program, which can speed up the application process. You must also meet income and resource limits for SSI, or have enough work credits for SSDI. Even if your condition is not listed, you may still qualify if you can prove it severely limits your ability to work [ssa.gov, 2025-11-06].
In Nebraska, if you are deaf-blind and do not qualify for federal SSI because your disability is expected to last less than 12 months, you may still be eligible for the Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD) program. This state program provides cash and medical coverage to people who are blind or disabled, including those with deaf-blindness. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) reviews applications and may approve support for living expenses, medical care, and essential items. The Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS) program also offers up to $400 per month for authorized services to help maintain independence and employment [dhhs.ne.gov, 2025-11-06].
Nebraska residents with deaf-blindness can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed. The account can cover costs like assistive technology, housing, and transportation [ssa.gov, 2025-11-06].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $967 per month for an individual. SSDI is not means-tested, but earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered Substantial Gainful Activity and may affect eligibility. State programs like AABD and DPFS have their own income and asset rules [ssa.gov, 2025-11-06].
If your income or resources change, you must report it to Social Security or DHHS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit reductions. Always report changes promptly and keep records of all communications [ssa.gov, 2025-11-06].
Contact your local Social Security office or Nebraska DHHS for help with applications and forms. Many agencies offer support for deaf-blind applicants.
Deaf-blindness is a combination of significant hearing and vision loss that severely limits communication, mobility, and daily activities. It is recognized as a qualifying disability for SSI and SSDI in Nebraska.
If your deaf-blindness is expected to last less than 12 months, you may not qualify for SSI but could be eligible for Nebraska’s AABD program for short-term support.
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. Provide medical records showing how deaf-blindness affects your ability to work.
You need medical records from licensed professionals, including audiograms, vision exams, and doctor’s notes that show the severity and impact of your deaf-blindness.
Yes, Social Security offers work incentives like the Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility, allowing you to test employment without losing benefits.
Nebraska offers AABD for cash and medical support, DPFS for monthly service funding, Medicaid waivers for home care, and ABLE accounts for tax-free savings.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult official sources or a benefits expert for personalized advice.
In 2025, the federal SSI payment is up to $967 per month for an individual. State supplements may add more, depending on your situation.
Yes, you must report any changes in income, resources, or medical condition to Social Security or DHHS to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits.
Yes, children with deaf-blindness may qualify for SSI or SSDI if they meet the medical and financial criteria. Benefits can continue into adulthood if the disability persists.
Compassionate Allowances are conditions, including some forms of deaf-blindness, that qualify for faster disability benefit processing due to their severity.
