People with Cerebral Palsy in Nevada may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state Medicaid and support services. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits you can receive.
To get federal disability benefits in Nevada, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) rules. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a qualifying disability and enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years)[^1]. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and be disabled, blind, or age 65 or older. Cerebral Palsy is a recognized disability for both programs[^2].
SSDI payments are based on your work history. SSI payments are set by federal rules and adjusted for your income and living situation. Both programs require that your disability prevents you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death[^3].
Nevada does not have its own state disability program, but it does provide a state supplement to the federal SSI payment for elderly or blind recipients. People with Cerebral Palsy who are not elderly or blind do not get this supplement unless they are part of an eligible couple with a partner who is aged or blind, or if they live in an institution where medical assistance pays for more than half of their care[^4].
Nevada also offers Medicaid to SSI recipients, which covers medical care. Children and adults with Cerebral Palsy may qualify for Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can help with therapy, equipment, and personal care[^5]. Other local services may include transportation, home-delivered meals, and rehabilitation resources through county health and human services offices[^6].
ABLE accounts let people with Cerebral Palsy save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Nevada residents can open an ABLE account through the national program. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other disability-related expenses[^17].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple. Nevada does not have a separate state disability income limit. SSDI has no income limit, but you cannot earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit ($1,470/month in 2024, likely higher in 2025)[^18].
If your income, living situation, or health changes, you must report it to SSA within 10 days. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and penalties. Keep records of all changes and communications with SSA[^19].
Contact your local county health and human services office for help with Medicaid, SNAP, and other local programs. For SSDI or SSI, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213.
Yes, children with Cerebral Palsy can qualify for SSI if their family has low income and resources. They may also get Medicaid and other support services. Parents apply on their behalf and must provide medical and school records.
The federal SSI payment in 2025 is $943/month for an individual. Nevada adds a small state supplement only for elderly or blind recipients, not for most people with Cerebral Palsy.
Yes, you must live in Nevada to get state services like Medicaid and SNAP. Federal benefits like SSDI and SSI are available to U.S. citizens and some noncitizens who live in Nevada.
Yes, you can work, but your earnings must be below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. In 2024, this is $1,470/month for non-blind individuals. Earning more may reduce or stop your benefits.
You need medical records from doctors, therapists, and schools that show your diagnosis, symptoms, and how Cerebral Palsy limits your daily activities and ability to work or go to school.
It can take 3 to 6 months to get a decision on SSDI or SSI. If you appeal, it may take longer. Children’s cases may be processed faster if they meet certain criteria.
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, if you get SSI, you usually qualify for Medicaid. Children and adults with Cerebral Palsy may also qualify for Medicaid waivers for extra services like therapy and personal care.
You can appeal within 60 days. You may need to provide more medical evidence or attend a hearing. Many people are approved on appeal.
Yes, SSDI and SSI have work incentives that let you try working without losing all your benefits. These include trial work periods and continued Medicaid coverage.
Yes, SSI recipients may qualify for SNAP (food stamps) and other local programs for housing, transportation, and home-delivered meals through county health and human services.
