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Nebraska • Mental Health
If you have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Nebraska, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI if your condition severely limits your ability to work. Nebraska also offers state programs and supports for people with disabilities. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what help is available.
To get federal disability benefits for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Nebraska, your condition must be severe enough to stop you from doing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for at least 12 months or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a "Listing of Impairments" to decide if a condition is severe. OCD is listed under mental disorders, but even if your symptoms are not listed, you may still qualify if you can prove your condition is just as serious as those listed.
You must also meet work and income requirements. For SSDI, you need 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 a month ($2,700 if blind) is considered SGA and may disqualify you from benefits [1].
Children with OCD may qualify for benefits if their condition is severe and limits their activities. Adults with OCD that started before age 22 may also qualify for benefits based on a parent's work record [7].
In Nebraska, if you have OCD and are denied federal benefits because your disability is expected to last less than 12 months, you may still qualify for state disability programs. The Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD) program provides cash and medical help to people who are blind or disabled but do not qualify for SSI. The State Disability Program (SDP) is run by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and can help with living costs and medical coverage [4].
The Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS) program offers up to $400 per month for authorized services to people with severe, chronic disabilities, including OCD, diagnosed by a licensed professional. This program helps people live independently and supports families [6].
Nebraska also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities who need extra help with daily living. These waivers can provide home and community-based services, such as personal care, therapy, and respite care [4][6].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Nebraska, you can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. Contributions are tax-free, and the account can be used for things like housing, education, and personal support. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one in Nebraska [internal_link: ABLE Accounts].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $967 per month for an individual. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered Substantial Gainful Activity and may disqualify you from benefits. State programs like AABD and DPFS have their own income and resource limits, which may be higher than federal limits [2][4][6].
If your income or condition changes, you must report it to the SSA and DHHS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you earn too much, get other benefits, or your condition improves. If you get an overpayment, you may have to pay it back. Learn how to avoid overpayments and what to do if you get one [internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Contact Nebraska Total Care or your local Social Security office for help with your application. Disability advocates can also guide you through the process.
Yes, if your OCD is severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must provide medical proof and meet income and work requirements. Nebraska also has state programs for people who do not qualify for federal benefits [1][2][4].
You need records from doctors, therapists, or hospitals that show your OCD diagnosis, symptoms, treatments, and how your condition limits your ability to work or do daily activities. The SSA will review these records to decide if you qualify [1][7].
SSI pays up to $967 per month in 2025. SSDI payments depend on your work history. State programs like AABD and DPFS may provide additional cash or services. Medicaid can help with medical costs [2][4][6].
Yes, federal work incentives let you try working without losing benefits. The Trial Work Period lets you work for up to 9 months without losing your cash benefit. After that, your earnings may affect your benefits [3][7].
Even if OCD is not listed, you may still qualify if you can prove your condition is just as severe as those listed. The SSA will review your medical records and decide if your disability prevents you from working [1][7].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Yes, children with severe OCD may qualify for SSI or SSDI if their condition limits their activities. Adults with OCD that started before age 22 may also qualify for benefits based on a parent's work record [7].
Nebraska offers the AABD program for cash and medical help, DPFS for authorized services, and Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. These programs help people with disabilities live independently [4][6].
Start by gathering medical records and applying for SSI or SSDI online or at a Social Security office. If denied, apply for state programs like AABD or DPFS through the Nebraska DHHS. Get help from a benefits counselor if you need support [2][4][6].
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. You can also apply for state programs like AABD or DPFS if you do not qualify for federal benefits. Get help from a disability advocate or benefits counselor [4][6].
Yes, Medicaid provides health coverage to people with disabilities who receive SSI or meet other eligibility rules. Nebraska also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, such as therapy and personal care [4][6].
