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Nebraska • Sensory
If you are hard of hearing in Nebraska, you may qualify for federal and state benefits—including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Nebraska-specific programs. These benefits help with living costs, medical care, and independent living. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
For federal programs like SSI and SSDI, you must have a medical condition (such as severe hearing loss) that significantly limits your ability to work for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death[1]. SSDI also requires enough work credits, while SSI is for people with limited income and resources, even with no work history[1][2]. There are special rules for children and adults with disabilities that began before age 22[7].
Even if your condition isn’t specifically listed, you may still qualify if you can show it’s as severe as a listed condition[1]. For SSDI, earning above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit (currently $1,620/month in 2025) can disqualify you[1][3]. SSI has strict income and asset limits, but certain resources (like an ABLE account) may not count[2].
For children, SSI is available if the child’s hearing loss seriously limits their ability to function, regardless of parent income until age 18[2][7].
Nebraska offers extra help through the Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD) and Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS) programs. AABD is for those denied SSI because their disability is expected to last less than 12 months or they don’t qualify for Medicaid on their own[4]. DPFS supports people of all ages with severe, chronic disabilities, helping with independent living and family support, but not directly for hearing aids or devices[6].
State disability reviews are separate from the federal process, and you may need to prove your hearing loss severely impacts daily activities. Some Nebraska programs have different income and asset rules than SSI/SSDI, so it’s possible to qualify for state help even if you don’t for federal benefits[4][6].
Start by checking your eligibility for SSI or SSDI—use the SSA’s online tools or call 1-800-772-1213[2]. If you’re hard of hearing, use TTY 1-800-325-0778. Gather medical records showing your hearing loss and how it affects your daily life. You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. If denied, you can appeal—Nebraska Total Care and Disability Rights Nebraska can help with the process[2]. For Nebraska-specific programs, contact the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)[4][6].
1. Gather Documents: Collect medical records, audiologist reports, employment history, and proof of income/resources. For children, include school and medical records. 2. Choose Your Program: Decide if you’re applying for SSI (low income/resources), SSDI (work credits), or Nebraska state programs (AABD, DPFS)[1][4][6]. 3. Submit an Application:
SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Monthly cash benefits for people with limited income/resources, including those who are hard of hearing. Up to $967/month in 2025 for individuals; children can also qualify if their disability is severe[2]. SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): Benefits based on work history and payroll taxes. Must have enough work credits and a disability expected to last 12+ months[1][3]. Medicare/Medicaid: After 24 months on SSDI, you get Medicare. SSI recipients in Nebraska usually get Medicaid automatically. ABLE Accounts: Tax-advantaged savings for disability-related expenses, available nationally[see ABLE Accounts]. Work Incentives: Programs like the Trial Work Period let you test employment without losing benefits right away[3].
Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD): Nebraska’s program for people denied SSI because their disability is short-term or they don’t qualify for Medicaid on their own. Provides cash and sometimes medical coverage. Must be determined disabled by the State Review Team[4]. Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS): Offers monthly funding (up to $400) for services that help with independent living and family support, but not for hearing aids/devices directly[6]. Nebraska Medicaid Waivers: These waivers (HCBS) provide home and community-based services, which may include some assistive technology—check with DHHS for details[see Medicaid Waivers (HCBS)]. State Employee Benefits: Nebraska state employees may have access to group long-term disability insurance, but this is not specific to sensory disabilities[5]. State vocational rehabilitation may offer job training and assistive devices—contact Nebraska Vocational Rehabilitation for details.
Nebraska residents who are hard of hearing can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility (up to certain limits). Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and assistive technology. See our ABLE Accounts guide for details.
SSI has strict income and asset limits. In 2025, earning more than $1,620/month (SGA limit) can affect SSDI eligibility; for SSI, the limit is lower and includes both earned and unearned income[1][3]. Some state programs have different rules—check with DHHS for specifics[4][6].
You must report changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to the SSA or DHHS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in benefit reductions or needing to pay money back. See our guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes for steps to take if you receive too much.
If you are hard of hearing and need to communicate with the SSA or Nebraska DHHS, you have the right to request accommodations—such as a sign language interpreter or TTY services. Always state your communication needs when you apply or appeal.
Yes, if your earnings are below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit ($1,620/month in 2025 for SSDI), you may still qualify. Work incentives let you try working without immediately losing benefits[1][3]. For SSI, even small earnings can affect eligibility, so report all income.
You can still qualify if you prove your hearing loss, combined with other conditions, significantly limits your ability to work. Medical documentation is key—include audiologist reports and details on daily challenges[1].
Nebraska Medicaid may cover hearing aids for children and some adults, but coverage varies. Check with Nebraska DHHS or your Medicaid managed care plan for details.
You have the right to appeal. Start by requesting reconsideration, then a hearing if needed. Disability Rights Nebraska offers free help with appeals—contact them for support.
Yes, children with severe hearing loss may qualify for SSI if their condition seriously limits activities. Parents must apply on behalf of the child and meet income/resource rules[2][7].
The DPFS program offers up to $400/month for services that support independent living, but usually not for hearing devices. HCBS Medicaid waivers may also help—contact DHHS for details[6].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Program rules and benefit amounts may change. Always check with official agencies for the most current information.
Yes, most Nebraska-specific programs require state residency and proof of Nebraska address. Federal programs like SSI/SSDI are available to all eligible U.S. residents.
SSI is needs-based, for those with limited income/resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is based on work credits from prior employment. See our SSI vs SSDI guide for more[1][2].
Federal disability decisions can take 3–5 months or longer, depending on medical evidence and appeals. State programs like AABD/DPFS may have different timelines—contact DHHS for current processing times[4][6].
You may be able to work part-time and keep benefits, especially during a Trial Work Period or using other work incentives. Always report earnings to the SSA or DHHS to avoid overpayments[3].
