People with Muscular Dystrophy in Nebraska can qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI), state programs, and Medicaid waivers. Eligibility depends on medical severity, work history, and income. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with Muscular Dystrophy, your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a "Listing of Impairments" that includes Muscular Dystrophy. If your condition is not listed, you may still qualify if you can prove it is equally severe.
For SSDI, you must have enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years). For SSI, your income and resources must be below set limits. In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered substantial work and may affect eligibility[1][7].
In Nebraska, people with Muscular Dystrophy may also qualify for state disability programs if they are denied federal benefits. The Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD) program provides cash and medical coverage for those whose disability is expected to last less than 12 months and who do not qualify for Medicaid on their own. The Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS) program offers up to $4,800 per year for authorized services for those with severe, chronic disabilities. Both programs require a medical determination of disability by a licensed professional[4][6].
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 do not count against SSI income limits, and earnings grow tax-free[1].
For SSI in 2025, the federal benefit rate is $967 per month. Your countable income must be below this amount. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered substantial work and may affect eligibility[1][7].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit reductions. Always report changes promptly and keep records of all communications[1].
Contact your local Social Security office or Nebraska DHHS for help with applications and eligibility questions. You can also get free legal help from disability advocacy groups in Nebraska.
Yes, Muscular Dystrophy is a qualifying condition for SSDI and SSI if it severely limits your ability to work. You must meet medical and financial criteria set by the Social Security Administration[1][7].
SSDI is for people with a qualifying work history and disability. SSI is for people with low income and resources, regardless of work history. Both provide cash benefits and may lead to Medicaid[1][7].
In 2025, the federal SSI benefit rate is $967 per month. Your actual payment may be less if you have other income or live with others who help pay expenses[2][7].
Yes, there are work incentives that let you try working without losing benefits. During the Trial Work Period, you can earn any amount and still get your full benefit. After that, earnings above $1,620 per month may affect your benefits[3][7].
Nebraska offers the AABD and DPFS programs for those who do not qualify for federal benefits. These programs provide cash, medical coverage, and support services for people with severe, chronic disabilities[4][6].
Contact Nebraska DHHS or your local Area Agency on Aging to learn about available Medicaid waivers and how to apply. You may need to provide medical records and proof of disability[4][6].
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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Yes, children with Muscular Dystrophy may qualify for SSI if the condition is severe and meets SSA criteria. Benefits may continue into adulthood if the disability began before age 22[7].
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Contributions do not count against SSI income limits, and earnings grow tax-free[1].
If your disability is expected to last less than 12 months, you may not qualify for federal SSDI or SSI. However, you may be eligible for Nebraska’s AABD program, which provides cash and medical coverage for short-term disabilities[4].
Yes, you must report changes to SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit reductions. Always report changes promptly and keep records of all communications[1].
