Nebraska • Other

Sensory Processing Disorder Benefits in Nebraska

People in Nebraska with Sensory Processing Disorder may qualify for federal and state disability benefits if their condition severely limits their ability to work or live independently. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and available programs.

Sensory Processing Disorder is not listed in the SSA's official disability list, but you may still qualify if your symptoms are severe.
You must show your condition prevents you from working or doing daily activities.
Nebraska offers state programs for those who do not qualify for federal benefits.
Children and adults with Sensory Processing Disorder may be eligible for SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and other support.
Work incentives and ABLE accounts can help you keep benefits while working or saving.

Last reviewed: 2025-11-06

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Eligibility

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your Sensory Processing Disorder must be severe enough to stop you from working or doing daily activities for at least 12 months [1].
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a "Listing of Impairments" to decide if a condition is severe. If your condition is not listed, you can still qualify if you prove it is just as severe as a listed condition [1].
For SSDI, you need enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years) [7].
For SSI, your income and resources must be below set limits [2].
Children with Sensory Processing Disorder may qualify for SSI if their condition seriously limits their activities [2].

In Nebraska, if you do not qualify for federal SSI because your disability is expected to last less than 12 months, you may be eligible for the State Disability Program (SDP) through Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD) [4].
The SDP provides a small monthly payment and medical coverage for those who are blind or disabled but do not meet federal SSI requirements [4].
The Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS) program helps people of all ages with severe, chronic disabilities, including Sensory Processing Disorder, diagnosed by a licensed medical professional [6].
DPFS can provide up to $400 per month for authorized services to help with independent living [6].
Nebraska Medicaid waivers may also be available to help with home and community-based services for people with disabilities [internal_link: Medicaid Waivers (HCBS)].

How to apply in Nebraska

Gather medical records showing your Sensory Processing Disorder diagnosis and how it affects your daily life.
Decide if you want to apply for federal (SSDI/SSI) or state (SDP/DPFS) benefits.
For federal benefits, apply online at SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-1213.
For state benefits, contact your local DHHS office or visit Nebraska.gov for forms and instructions.

Step 1: Get a diagnosis from a licensed medical professional. Your records should show how Sensory Processing Disorder limits your ability to work or do daily activities.
Step 2: Decide which program(s) you want to apply for:
- Federal: SSDI (if you have a work history) or SSI (if you have low income and resources) [1][2].
- State: SDP (if you do not qualify for SSI) or DPFS (for authorized services) [4][6].
Step 3: Fill out the application:
- For SSDI/SSI: Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office [7].
- For SDP/DPFS: Contact your local DHHS office or visit Nebraska.gov for forms [4][6].
Step 4: Submit all required documents, including medical records, proof of income, and identification.
Step 5: Attend any required interviews or medical exams.
Step 6: Wait for a decision. If denied, you can appeal within 60 days [1][4][6].

Programs & Services

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For adults with a work history who are unable to work due to disability [7].
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For people with low income and resources who are disabled, blind, or over 65 [2].
Disabled Adult Child (DAC): For adults whose disability began before age 22 and whose parent is receiving Social Security benefits [7].
Medicaid: For people with disabilities who receive SSI or meet other eligibility rules [internal_link: Medicaid vs Medicare].

State Disability Program (SDP): Provides a small monthly payment and medical coverage for those who are blind or disabled but do not qualify for federal SSI because their disability is expected to last less than 12 months [4].
Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS): Helps people of all ages with severe, chronic disabilities, including Sensory Processing Disorder, with up to $400 per month for authorized services [6].
Medicaid Waivers: Nebraska offers waivers for home and community-based services to help people with disabilities live independently [internal_link: Medicaid Waivers (HCBS)].
Nebraska Medicaid: Provides health coverage for people with disabilities who meet income and resource requirements [internal_link: Medicaid vs Medicare].

Money & Banking

ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits [internal_link: ABLE Accounts].
You can use ABLE funds for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation.

For SSI in 2025, the federal benefit rate is $967 per month for an individual [2].
For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) from work and still qualify [3][7].
For state programs like SDP, income limits may be higher, but you must still show financial need [4].

If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments [internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Overpayments can happen if you do not report changes or if you work while receiving benefits.
You can set up direct deposit for benefits and keep records of all payments and changes.

Tips & Gotchas

Need Help Applying?

Contact your local DHHS office or call Nebraska Total Care for help with your application.

Contacts

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
Phone: 1-800-383-4278
Website
For state disability programs and Medicaid

FAQs

Can I get disability benefits for Sensory Processing Disorder in Nebraska?
Yes, if your Sensory Processing Disorder is severe enough to stop you from working or doing daily activities for at least 12 months, you may qualify for federal or state disability benefits in Nebraska [1][4][6].
What medical proof do I need for disability benefits with Sensory Processing Disorder?
You need records from a licensed medical professional showing your diagnosis and how your condition limits your ability to work or do daily activities [1][6].
Can children get disability benefits for Sensory Processing Disorder in Nebraska?
Yes, children with Sensory Processing Disorder may qualify for SSI if their condition seriously limits their activities [2][7].
What is the difference between SSDI and SSI for Sensory Processing Disorder?
SSDI is for people with a work history, while SSI is for people with low income and resources. Both require a severe disability that stops you from working [1][2][7].
What state programs are available for Sensory Processing Disorder in Nebraska?
Nebraska offers the State Disability Program (SDP) and the Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS) program for people with severe, chronic disabilities [4][6].
How much money can I get from disability benefits for Sensory Processing Disorder?
SSI pays up to $967 per month in 2025. SSDI payments depend on your work history. State programs like SDP and DPFS pay smaller amounts [2][4][6].

Official resources

SSDI Benefits Orientation Guide 2025(form)
Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD)(state_agency)
Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS)(state_agency)
How Does Someone Become Eligible for Disability Benefits?(federal)

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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.

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