People with Spina Bifida in Nebraska may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI), Medicaid, and state programs. 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 Spina Bifida, 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" to identify qualifying conditions, but even if Spina Bifida is not listed, you may still qualify if your symptoms are equally severe. You must also meet income and work credit requirements. For SSDI, you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. For SSI, your income and assets must be below certain limits. Children with Spina Bifida may qualify for benefits if the disability began before age 22 and meets adult disability standards[1][7].
In Nebraska, individuals with Spina Bifida may qualify for state disability programs if they are denied federal SSI due to a disability expected to last less than 12 months. The Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD) program provides financial and medical support for those who do not meet the 12-month requirement for SSI. The Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS) program offers up to $400 per month for authorized services for those with a severe, chronic disability diagnosed by a medical professional. State employees may also have access to long-term disability insurance through their employer, which can provide up to 60% of monthly income if unable to work due to illness or injury[4][5][6].
ABLE accounts allow individuals with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. In Nebraska, you can open an ABLE account to pay for disability-related expenses. Contributions are tax-free, and earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses do not affect federal benefits. Learn more about Nebraska ABLE accounts and eligibility[ABLE Accounts].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit 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 (SGA) and may affect eligibility. State programs like AABD and DPFS have their own income and asset limits, which are generally lower than federal limits[2][3].
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report any changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to the SSA or DHHS promptly. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes[Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Contact Nebraska Total Care or your local DHHS office for help with SSI/SSDI applications. They can guide you through the process and answer your questions.
Conditions like Spina Bifida qualify if they severely limit your ability to work for at least 12 months. The SSA has a list of qualifying conditions, but even if your condition is not listed, you may still qualify if it is equally severe[1][2].
Yes, children with Spina Bifida may qualify for SSI if the disability began before age 22 and meets adult disability standards. They must also meet income and asset limits[7].
You can apply online, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need to provide medical and financial documentation to support your application[7].
The federal SSI income limit in 2025 is $967 per month for an individual. State programs may have different limits[2].
SSI is for those with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those with a qualifying disability and sufficient work history. Both programs provide monthly payments to those who are disabled[SSI vs SSDI].
Yes, work incentives like the Trial Work Period allow you to test your ability to work without losing benefits. Earnings above certain limits may affect your eligibility[SSI & SSDI Work Incentives].
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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Nebraska offers AABD, DPFS, and Medicaid waivers for those with Spina Bifida. These programs provide financial, medical, and support services[4][6].
You can apply for Medicaid through the DHHS. Medicaid waivers can provide additional services for those with Spina Bifida who need support to live independently[Medicaid Waivers (HCBS)].
An ABLE account allows individuals with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Contributions and earnings are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses do not affect federal benefits[ABLE Accounts].
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. Contact the SSA or DHHS for information on the appeals process and what additional documentation may be needed[7].
