People with intellectual disability in Nebraska may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI), Medicaid, and state programs. Eligibility depends on the severity of the disability, work history, and income. Nebraska also offers additional support for those who do not qualify for federal benefits.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with an intellectual disability, your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a "Listing of Impairments" to identify qualifying conditions, but you may still qualify if your intellectual disability is equally severe, even if not listed. For SSDI, you must have enough work credits. For SSI, your income and resources must be limited. Both programs require proof of disability from a medical professional.
Intellectual disability is recognized as a qualifying condition if it significantly limits your ability to work and perform daily activities.
In Nebraska, individuals with intellectual disability may qualify for state programs if they are denied federal SSI or SSDI benefits. The Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD) program provides financial and medical support for those whose disability is expected to last less than 12 months or who do not meet federal income/resource limits. The Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS) program offers up to $400 per month for services like home modifications, counseling, and personal care for those with severe, chronic disabilities, including intellectual disability.
Source: DHHS.ne.gov Source: DHHS.ne.gov
Nebraska also offers Medicaid waivers for individuals with intellectual disability, providing additional services and supports.
Source: SSA.gov Source: Medicaid.gov Source: ABLE National Resource Center
Source: DHHS.ne.gov Source: DHHS.ne.gov Source: Medicaid.gov
ABLE accounts allow individuals with intellectual disability to save for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. In Nebraska, you can open an ABLE account through the state's ABLE program. Funds in an ABLE account can be used for expenses such as education, housing, transportation, employment training, and personal support services.
Source: ABLE National Resource Center
For SSI, the income limit in 2025 is $967 per month for an individual. 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 may affect eligibility. State programs like AABD and DPFS have their own income and resource limits.
Source: SSA.gov Source: DHHS.ne.gov Source: DHHS.ne.gov
It is important to report any changes in income, living situation, or disability status to avoid overpayments. If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you may be required to repay the overpayment. Reporting changes promptly can help ensure continued eligibility and avoid penalties.
Contact your local Social Security office or Nebraska DHHS for help with applications and eligibility questions.
Intellectual disability is a condition that affects learning, reasoning, and problem-solving abilities. It is diagnosed by a medical professional and can impact daily living and work.
Yes, if your intellectual disability is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You will need to provide medical evidence.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those with a qualifying disability and enough work credits. Both provide monthly payments.
The income limit for SSI in 2025 is $967 per month for an individual. This limit may be adjusted for certain expenses.
AABD provides financial and medical support for those denied SSI due to short-term disability or income/resource limits. It is for individuals determined blind or disabled by the State Review Team.
DPFS offers up to $400 per month for services like home modifications, counseling, and personal care for those with severe, chronic disabilities, including intellectual disability.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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An ABLE account allows individuals with disabilities to save for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and more.
You can apply for Medicaid waivers through the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. These waivers provide additional services and supports for individuals with intellectual disability.
You must report any changes in income to avoid overpayments. If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you may be required to repay the overpayment.
Yes, there are work incentives that allow you to try working without losing benefits. The Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility allow you to test your ability to work.
