People with epilepsy in Nevada may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, plus state-specific supports such as Medicaid waivers and vocational rehabilitation. Eligibility depends on medical severity, work history, and income. This guide explains how to apply and what benefits are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Nevada, your epilepsy must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a five-step process to decide if you are disabled. You must not be earning above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals in 2025 (or $2,700 if blind) [9].
SSDI requires a work history and enough Social Security credits (usually 40, with 20 earned in the last 10 years) [7]. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical proof that your epilepsy meets SSA’s criteria for disability [6].
Nevada does not have a separate state disability program, but residents can access Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS) if they meet income and disability requirements. These waivers help people with epilepsy live independently and receive support services. Nevada also offers vocational rehabilitation through the Bureau of Disability Adjudication, which helps people with disabilities find and keep jobs [5].
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 Access Nevada, the portal for applying for Medicaid and other benefits [8]. State-specific eligibility may change, so check with local agencies for updates.
SSDI and SSI benefits may increase in 2025 due to the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) [2].
State programs often require federal disability approval first. Check with local agencies for eligibility and application details.
Nevada residents with epilepsy can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. ABLE accounts let you save up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit) and grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses do not count as income for benefits. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one in Nevada.
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Nevada may have higher limits for Medicaid. The SGA limit for SSDI is $1,620 per month (non-blind) or $2,700 (blind). Earning above these limits can affect benefits. Use the SSI Income Estimator to check your eligibility.
If your income or health changes, you must report it to the SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you earn too much or your condition improves. Report changes promptly to avoid penalties. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes.
Contact Nevada Legal Services or the Bureau of Disability Adjudication for free help with applications, appeals, and questions.
Yes, epilepsy can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it prevents you from working for at least 12 months. You must provide medical proof and meet SSA’s disability criteria. Nevada residents can also access Medicaid waivers and vocational rehab.
Apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. For Medicaid waivers, use Access Nevada. Gather medical records and work history. Contact Nevada Legal Services or the Bureau of Disability Adjudication for help.
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above these amounts can affect your SSDI or SSI benefits.
Yes, you may qualify for both SSDI and SSI if you have limited income and resources. This is called concurrent benefits. The SSA will decide your eligibility after you apply.
Nevada offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, such as personal care, respite, and supported employment. These help people with epilepsy live independently and access needed supports.
An ABLE account lets you save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit) and grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses do not count as income.
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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If your epilepsy improves and you can work, report changes to the SSA. Your benefits may be reduced or stopped. You can use work incentives to test employment without losing benefits.
Contact Nevada Legal Services, the Bureau of Disability Adjudication, or local nonprofits for help with applications, appeals, and questions. Use Access Nevada for Medicaid and other benefits.
The process can take several months. SSA reviews your medical records and work history. You may need to appeal if denied. Nevada Legal Services can help speed up the process.
Yes, you can work up to the SGA limit without losing benefits. Work incentives let you test employment and keep some benefits. Report earnings to avoid overpayments.
