If you are hard of hearing in Nevada, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, Nevada Medicaid, and other support programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Nevada, your hearing loss must be severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a five-step process to determine eligibility, including whether you are engaged in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). For 2025, the SGA limit for non-blind individuals is $1,470 per month, and for blind individuals, it is $2,460 per month. If your hearing loss meets SSA criteria, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI requires a work history and payment of Social Security taxes, while SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs provide monthly payments and access to healthcare through Medicaid or Medicare[1][3][5][6].
Nevada provides a state supplement to SSI for elderly or blind recipients, but not for those with a disability 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 50% of their care. Hard of hearing individuals may qualify for this supplement if they meet these criteria. Nevada also offers Medicaid to SSI recipients, which covers hearing aids and related services. Additional local services, such as adult placement, child behavior resources, and transportation, are available through county health and human services offices. Nevada does not have a separate state disability program for hard of hearing individuals, but federal programs and local resources provide comprehensive support[2][4][8].
ABLE accounts allow individuals with disabilities, including those hard of hearing, to save money without affecting eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other means-tested benefits. Contributions are tax-free, and funds can be used for qualified disability expenses. Nevada offers ABLE accounts through the state's ABLE program. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one[4].
For SSI, the federal income limit for 2025 is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Nevada does not have a separate income limit for its state supplement, but eligibility is based on federal SSI rules. SSDI has no income limit, but earnings above the SGA limit ($1,470 per month for non-blind individuals in 2025) may affect benefits. Medicaid and SNAP have their own income and resource limits, which vary by household size and circumstances[3][6].
It is important to report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment or benefit suspension. Report changes to SSA and your county health and human services office promptly. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes[4].
Contact your local county health and human services office for assistance with applications and to learn about additional support services.
Yes, if your hearing loss is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. You must meet SSA criteria and provide medical documentation.
Nevada provides a state supplement to SSI for elderly or blind recipients. Hard of hearing individuals may qualify if 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 50% of their care.
You need medical records, including audiograms and doctor's reports, that show your hearing loss meets SSA criteria for disability. Documentation should be recent and detailed.
You can apply for Medicaid through your county health and human services office. Medicaid covers hearing aids and related services for eligible individuals.
Yes, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit ($1,470 per month for non-blind individuals in 2025). Work incentives and ABLE accounts can help you maintain benefits while working.
Local agencies offer adult placement, child behavior resources, transportation, counseling, and rehabilitation services. Contact your county health and human services office for more information.
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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Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to SSA and your county health and human services office promptly to avoid overpayments and benefit suspension.
Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria for both programs. SSDI is based on work history, and SSI is based on income and resources.
The SGA limit for 2025 is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,460 for blind individuals. Earnings above these limits may affect your benefits.
If everyone in your household is applying for or getting SSI, you can apply for SNAP at a Social Security office. Otherwise, apply at your local county health and human services office.
