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Nebraska • Speech/Language
People with speech impairment in Nebraska may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI) and state programs if their condition limits work or daily activities. Eligibility depends on medical severity, income, and work history. Nebraska also offers Medicaid waivers and support for independent living.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) in Nebraska, your speech impairment must be medically documented and 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 decide if a condition is severe. Even if speech impairment is not listed, you may still qualify if you can prove it limits your ability to work as much as a listed condition. For SSDI, you need enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years). SSI is for those with limited income and resources. Both programs require that your condition is expected to last at least a year or result in death. [1][7]
In Nebraska, if you are denied SSI because your disability is expected to last less than 12 months, you may still qualify for the State Disability Program (SDP) through Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD). This program provides cash and medical coverage for those who are blind or disabled but do not meet federal SSI duration requirements. The Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS) program also assists people with severe, chronic disabilities, including speech impairment, with up to $400 per month for authorized services. Eligibility is determined by a licensed medical professional and the State Review Team. [4][6]
ABLE accounts let Nebraskans with speech impairment save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $100,000 without affecting SSI, and earnings grow tax-free. Nebraska’s ABLE program is open to residents with disabilities that began before age 26. [2]
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly benefit is $967. Income and resource limits apply. SSDI is not based on income, but you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) from work and still receive benefits. State programs like AABD have their own income rules. [2][3]
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security or Nebraska DHHS. Failing to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. Use the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide to understand how work affects your benefits. [3]
Centauri Health Solutions can help you apply for SSI or SSDI in Nebraska. Call them to find out if you qualify and get support through the process. [2]
Yes, if your speech impairment is severe enough to limit your ability to work or do daily activities for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. Even if not listed, you can still qualify if you prove it limits your work as much as a listed condition. [1][7]
If your disability is expected to last less than 12 months, you may not qualify for SSI but could be eligible for Nebraska’s State Disability Program (AABD), which provides cash and medical coverage for short-term disabilities. [4]
In 2025, the maximum SSI payment is $967 per month. The actual amount depends on your income and resources. SSDI payments depend on your work history. [2]
Nebraska offers cash and medical coverage through AABD, services through DPFS, Medicaid waivers for home care, and help applying for SSI/SSDI through Centauri Health Solutions. [4][6]
Yes, Social Security has work incentives like the Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility. You can try working without losing benefits, but there are limits on how much you can earn. [3]
Contact Nebraska DHHS to apply for Medicaid waivers. These waivers help pay for home and community-based services so you can live independently. [6]
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.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. Nebraska’s ABLE program is open to residents with disabilities that began before age 26. [2]
If denied, you can appeal or apply for Nebraska’s State Disability Program (AABD) or DPFS for support. You may also qualify for Medicaid waivers. [4][6]
Yes, you need a diagnosis and medical records from a licensed professional showing how your speech impairment limits your activities or work. This is required for all disability programs. [1][6]
Yes, children with severe speech impairment may qualify for SSI if it seriously limits their activities. Parents should apply through Social Security and provide medical evidence. [2]
