Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Benefits in Nevada

To get federal disability benefits in Nevada for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), you must meet Social Security rules. Your COPD must be expected to last at least 12 months and prevent you from doing substantial work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a five-step process to decide if you are disabled. First, they check if you are doing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). In 2025, SGA is $1,620 per month for most people, or $2,700 if you are blind. If you earn more than this, you usually cannot get benefits. Next, they check if your COPD is severe enough to limit your work. If you meet these rules, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI[8][6][4].

SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. You need enough work credits, usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years. SSI is for people with low income and resources, no work history needed. Both programs require a qualifying disability[5][6].

Nevada does not have its own state disability insurance program, but residents can get help through Medicaid and other state services. If you qualify for SSI, you may also get Medicaid in Nevada, which covers healthcare costs. Nevada also offers programs for people with disabilities, such as Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, and ABLE accounts for saving without losing benefits. These programs can help with medical care, housing, and daily living needs[9][7].

To qualify for state help, you usually need to be eligible for a federal program like SSI or SSDI. Nevada’s Division of Welfare and Supportive Services (DWSS) runs these programs. You can apply online or in person for state benefits after you apply for federal disability[7][9].

• Check if your COPD prevents work for at least 12 months.
• Gather medical records and work history.
• Apply online at SSA.gov or in person at a Social Security office.
• Apply for Nevada Medicaid if you get SSI or have low income.
• Register for an account on Access Nevada to apply for state benefits[7].

• Step 1: Confirm your COPD meets Social Security’s definition of disability. Your doctor should document your condition and how it limits your ability to work.
• Step 2: Collect your medical records, work history, and personal information.
• Step 3: Apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You can apply for both at once if you think you qualify for both[5].
• Step 4: If approved for SSI, you may automatically qualify for Nevada Medicaid. If not, apply for Medicaid through Access Nevada.
• Step 5: Register for an account on Access Nevada to apply for other state programs, like food assistance or housing help[7].
• Step 6: Report any changes in your income or health to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits[5].

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. In 2025, benefits range from $967 to $4,018 per month, based on your work history[3][2].
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For people with low income and resources. In 2025, SSI pays up to $943 per month for individuals, less if you have other income[3].
• Medicare: After 24 months of SSDI, you get Medicare for healthcare[5].
• Medicaid: If you get SSI, you may get Medicaid in Nevada for extra healthcare help[9].

• Nevada Medicaid: Covers healthcare for people with low income and disabilities. If you get SSI, you may qualify automatically. Medicaid can help with doctor visits, hospital care, and prescriptions for COPD[9].
• Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): These programs help people with disabilities live at home instead of in institutions. Services may include home health aides, therapy, and equipment[9].
• ABLE Accounts: Tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities. You can save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits[9].
• Other State Programs: Nevada offers food assistance, housing help, and job support for people with disabilities through the Division of Welfare and Supportive Services[7].

Nevada offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities. These accounts let you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the money for disability-related expenses like medical care, housing, or education. To open an ABLE account, you must have a qualifying disability that started before age 26[9].

For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for individuals. Nevada may have different rules for state programs. If you earn more than the SGA limit ($1,620 per month in 2025), you may lose SSDI or SSI benefits. Always report changes in income to avoid overpayments[8][3].

If your income or health changes, you must report it to Social Security and Nevada state agencies. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits. Keep records of all changes and report them as soon as possible[5].

• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Monday-Friday

  Website

  Apply for SSDI or SSI online or by phone.
• Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services
  Phone: 1-866-968-7357

  Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday

  Website

  Apply for Medicaid and other state benefits.

• Can I get disability benefits for COPD in Nevada?

  Yes, if your COPD prevents you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. You need medical proof and, for SSDI, a work history. Nevada also offers Medicaid and other programs for people with disabilities[8][9].

• What is the SGA limit for disability in Nevada in 2025?

  In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for most people, or $2,700 if you are blind. If you earn more than this, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI[8][6].

• How do I apply for disability benefits in Nevada?

  You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. For state benefits, register for an account on Access Nevada and apply for Medicaid or other programs[7].

• Can I get both SSDI and SSI in Nevada?

  Yes, if you meet the rules for both programs. This is called concurrent benefits. Social Security will decide if you qualify for one or both after you apply[5].

• What healthcare benefits are available for COPD in Nevada?

  If you get SSI, you may qualify for Nevada Medicaid, which covers doctor visits, hospital care, and prescriptions. Medicaid waivers can also help with home care and equipment[9].

• How much can I earn and still get disability in Nevada?

  In 2025, you can earn up to $1,620 per month and still get SSDI or SSI. If you earn more, your benefits may stop. Always report changes in income[8][3].