If you have chronic pain that stops you from working, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits in Nevada. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Nevada, you must have a chronic pain condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months and have paid enough Social Security taxes through work. SSDI is based on your work history and earnings. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your chronic pain must meet Social Security’s definition of disability. Both programs require a medical review to confirm your condition prevents substantial work. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above this limit may affect your eligibility[1][2].
Nevada does not have its own state-run disability program, so most benefits come from federal programs like SSDI and SSI. However, Nevada offers Medicaid waivers for people with chronic pain who need extra care at home or in the community. These waivers help pay for services like personal care, therapy, and home modifications. Nevada also has ABLE accounts, which let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. To qualify for state services, you usually need to be approved for SSDI or SSI first. Nevada’s Department of Health and Human Services runs these programs and can help you apply[3][4].
Nevada’s ABLE program lets people with chronic pain save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other disability-related expenses. To open an account, you must have a qualifying disability and meet Social Security’s definition of disability[11].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month. Nevada may add a small state supplement. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you must not earn more than the SGA limit ($1,620 per month for non-blind individuals, $2,700 for blind individuals). Medicaid income limits vary based on household size and other factors[12].
If your income or health changes, you must report it to Social Security and Medicaid. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Nevada offers resources to help you avoid overpayments and report changes correctly[13].
Nevada Legal Services offers free help with disability applications and appeals. Call or visit their website for support.
Yes, chronic pain can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it stops you from working for at least 12 months and meets Social Security’s medical criteria. You must provide medical proof and meet income and work history requirements[1][2].
In 2025, you can earn up to $1,620 per month (non-blind) or $2,700 (blind) without losing SSDI or SSI benefits. Earning more may affect your eligibility[2][7].
The federal SSI payment in 2025 is $943 per month. Nevada may add a small state supplement. The exact amount depends on your income and living situation[12].
You can apply for Medicaid through Access Nevada. If you have chronic pain and are approved for SSDI or SSI, you may qualify for Medicaid and HCBS waivers[9][10].
Nevada Medicaid waivers help people with chronic pain get extra care at home or in the community. Services may include personal care, therapy, and home modifications. You must be approved for SSDI or SSI first[9][10].
Yes, Nevada’s ABLE program lets people with chronic pain save up to $18,000 per year without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses[11].
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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You must report any changes in income to Social Security and Medicaid. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Nevada offers resources to help you avoid overpayments[13].
The process can take 3–6 months or longer. It depends on how quickly Social Security gets your medical records and makes a decision. You can appeal if denied[5].
Yes, but you must not earn more than the SGA limit ($1,620 per month for non-blind individuals, $2,700 for blind individuals). Social Security offers work incentives to help you try working without losing benefits[2][7].
If denied, you can appeal within 60 days. Nevada offers legal aid and advocacy services to help with appeals[5].
