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Nebraska • Sensory
People who are deaf in Nebraska may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs for financial and medical support. Eligibility depends on the severity of hearing loss, work history, and income. This guide explains how to apply and what help is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Nebraska, your deafness must be severe enough to prevent you from doing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a Listing of Impairments that includes hearing loss. If your hearing loss is not listed, you may still qualify if you can prove it is equally severe. You must also meet work credit requirements for SSDI or income limits for SSI. In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered SGA and can affect eligibility[1][7].
In Nebraska, deaf individuals may also qualify for state programs if they do not meet federal requirements. The Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD) program provides financial and medical help to those whose disability is expected to last less than 12 months and who are ineligible for Medicaid. The Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS) program offers up to $400 per month for services like home modifications and counseling for those with severe, chronic disabilities, including deafness, diagnosed by a licensed professional[4][6].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities, including deafness, save money for qualified expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Nebraska, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s program. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and more[internal_links].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly income is $967. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered Substantial Gainful Activity and can affect eligibility[1][7].
You must report any changes in income, work, or health to the SSA or Nebraska DHHS. Failing to report can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits. Use the SSA’s online portal or contact your local office to report changes[internal_links].
Contact your local Social Security office or Nebraska DHHS for help with applications and questions about eligibility.
Yes, deafness can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it severely limits your ability to work. You must provide medical proof and meet federal or state requirements[1][7].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those with enough work credits. Both can help if deafness prevents you from working[1][7].
Yes, Nebraska Medicaid may cover hearing aids and related services for eligible individuals. Check with your local Medicaid office for details[2].
Gather medical records, check eligibility, and apply online at SSA.gov or through Nebraska DHHS. You may also apply for Medicaid and state programs[1][4][6].
AABD and DPFS offer financial and medical help for those who don’t qualify for federal aid. Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts are also available[4][6][internal_links].
Yes, work incentives let you try jobs without losing benefits. The Trial Work Period allows you to work for up to 9 months without losing SSDI[3][7].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
In 2025, the maximum SSI payment is $967 per month. SSDI payments depend on your work history[2][7].
You may still qualify for state programs like AABD or DPFS if your disability is severe but not long-term enough for federal aid[4][6].
Yes, children with severe deafness may qualify for SSI or SSDI if they meet medical and financial requirements[7].
Report any changes in income, work, or health to the SSA or Nebraska DHHS. Use the online portal or contact your local office[internal_links].
