If you have diabetes and live in Nevada, you may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSDI, SSI), Medicaid, nutrition support, and state services. This guide explains eligibility, application steps, benefit amounts, and where to get help—tailored for Nevadans with diabetes and other chronic illnesses.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with diabetes in Nevada, your condition must severely limit your ability to work for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death. For SSDI, you need a work history with enough Social Security credits—usually 40 credits, 20 earned in the last 10 years[1][6][7]. For SSI, you do not need a work history, but must have limited income and resources[4][6]. Both programs require detailed medical evidence showing how diabetes affects your daily life and work capacity. Children with diabetes may also qualify for SSI if their condition meets disability criteria[2][4].
Nevada primarily administers federal programs but does offer a state supplement to SSI for people who are elderly or blind—not generally for those with disabilities alone, unless part of an eligible couple or living in certain medical institutions[2]. All SSI recipients in Nevada can usually get Medicaid, which covers diabetes care, medications, and supplies—apply through your local county health office[2][9]. Nevada’s Division of Welfare and Supportive Services (DWSS) administers Medicaid and can connect you with additional services like nutrition support, transportation, and home-delivered meals[2][8]. If you are a veteran, you may qualify for additional VA benefits, but these are separate from SSDI and SSI[4].
Start by gathering your medical records, work history, and financial information. You can apply for SSDI and SSI online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office. Apply for Nevada Medicaid through your county health office. For veterans, contact the VA for separate benefits. Keep copies of all documents and follow up regularly.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For people with diabetes who have worked and paid into Social Security. Benefits in 2025 range from $967 to $4,018 per month, based on your earnings record[1][5]. Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For those with limited income/resources, regardless of work history. The 2025 maximum is $967/month[2][5]. Both programs include Medicare or Medicaid after a waiting period[1][4]. VA Disability: Veterans with service-connected diabetes may qualify for additional benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs[4]. SNAP (Food Assistance): SSI recipients may also qualify for nutrition support[2].
Nevada’s main role is administering federal programs, but the state offers a small SSI supplement for elderly or blind recipients, not generally for people with disabilities alone[2]. All SSI recipients can get Medicaid, which covers diabetes care, insulin, testing supplies, and doctor visits[2][9]. Nevada’s Division of Welfare and Supportive Services (DWSS) can connect you with additional services like transportation, home-delivered meals, and adult placement[2][8]. For home and community-based services (waivers), check with DWSS about Medicaid waiver programs—these can help with personal care, respite, and other supports not covered by regular Medicaid[9].
Nevadans with diabetes who receive SSI or other disability benefits can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for means-tested programs. ABLE accounts allow tax-free growth and withdrawals for qualified expenses. Learn more in our ABLE Accounts guide.
For SSI in 2025, the income limit is strict—individuals must have less than $2,000 in countable resources (excluding home and car)[5]. Earned income above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit (about $1,470/month in 2025 for non-blind individuals) can affect SSDI eligibility[3][5]. Medicaid in Nevada also has income and asset limits—check with your county office for current rules[9].
Always report changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to the Social Security Administration and Nevada Medicaid to avoid overpayments, which you may have to pay back. See our guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes for details. Keep records of all reports and correspondence.
Diabetes alone rarely qualifies for disability benefits—it must cause severe complications (like nerve damage, vision loss, or kidney disease) that prevent work. Document all medical visits, treatments, and how diabetes affects your daily life for your application.
Nevada 211 can connect you with local agencies, food banks, transportation, and other support services. If you are denied benefits, you have the right to appeal—many applicants are approved at this stage with the right evidence.
Yes, if you meet the eligibility rules for both programs, you can receive “concurrent” benefits. The SSA will determine if you qualify for one or both after you apply[6].
Nevada provides a small state supplement to SSI only for people who are elderly or blind—not generally for those with disabilities alone, unless specific conditions apply[2].
Nevada Medicaid typically covers doctor visits, insulin, testing supplies, medications, and some diabetes education. Coverage details can vary—contact your county health office for specifics[2][9].
If you receive SSI, you may apply for SNAP at a Social Security office. Otherwise, apply at your local county health and human services office. Eligibility depends on household income[2].
Yes, earning above the SGA limit (about $1,470/month in 2025) can suspend or end your SSDI benefits. SSI also reduces benefits if your income increases. See our [SSI & SSDI Work Incentives](/guides/work-incentives) guide for details[3].
You have the right to appeal. The process has several levels, and many applicants are approved after appealing. Consider getting help from a disability advocate or attorney.
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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Nevada offers Medicaid waivers (HCBS) for some individuals who need help to live at home. These can cover personal care, respite, and other supports. Contact DWSS for details—see our [Medicaid Waivers (HCBS)](/guides/medicaid-waivers) guide[9].
Yes, veterans with service-connected diabetes may qualify for VA disability benefits in addition to SSDI or SSI. These programs are separate—apply through the VA[4].
ABLE accounts let you save for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. Funds can be used for medical care, education, housing, and more. Learn more in our [ABLE Accounts](/guides/able-accounts) guide.
Contact your local Social Security office for application help. For appeals or complex cases, consider a disability attorney or advocate. Nevada’s Aging and Disability Services Division may also offer guidance.
