If you have an amputation in North Carolina, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs for income, health care, and support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To get federal disability benefits in North Carolina, you must meet Social Security’s definition of disability. For SSI, you need limited income and resources. For SSDI, you need enough work credits. Amputation is a qualifying condition if it meets Social Security’s medical criteria. Children with amputations may also qualify for benefits if their parent receives Social Security. Adults with disabilities that started before age 22 may get benefits based on a parent’s record. You must not have substantial earnings to qualify for Disabled Adult Child benefits. [^1]
In North Carolina, state employees who participate in the Teachers’ and State Employees’ Retirement System (TSERS) may qualify for the Disability Income Plan of North Carolina (DIP-NC). This plan offers short-term and long-term disability benefits. To qualify for short-term disability, you need at least one year of creditable service in TSERS within the last 36 months. Benefits start after a 60-day waiting period and pay up to 50% of your monthly salary, max $3,000 per month, for up to a year. If you remain disabled, long-term disability benefits may continue. Employees with fewer than five years of service may have limited benefits. [^2]
North Carolina also offers Medicaid waivers for people with physical disabilities, which can help pay for home and community-based services. You may qualify for these waivers if you meet income and disability requirements. [^3]
An ABLE account lets you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for disability-related expenses like medical care, housing, and transportation. In North Carolina, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. [^17]
For SSI, the income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you must not have substantial earnings. For Medicaid, income limits vary based on family size and disability status. [^18]
If you get too much money from SSI or SSDI, you may have to pay it back. Report changes in income, living situation, or medical status to Social Security right away to avoid overpayments. [^19]
Contact your local Department of Social Services or the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation for help with applications and planning.
You may qualify for SSI, SSDI, Medicare, and Medicaid. SSI is for people with limited income, SSDI is for those with a work history, and Medicaid provides health coverage. Medicare comes after 24 months of SSDI.
Apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. For state benefits, contact your HR office or local Department of Social Services.
DIP-NC is a state program for employees with at least one year of creditable service in TSERS. It offers short-term and long-term disability benefits after a 60-day waiting period.
Yes, you can work and still get benefits. Social Security has work incentives to help you keep benefits while you try to work. Report changes in income to avoid overpayments.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use it for medical care, housing, and transportation.
The North Carolina Assistive Technology Program (NCATP) provides assistive technology services for people with disabilities, including those with amputations. Contact NCATP 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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Medicaid waivers help pay for home and community-based services for people with disabilities. Apply through your local Department of Social Services if you meet income and disability requirements.
Yes, children with amputations may qualify for SSI or SSDI if their parent receives Social Security benefits. They must meet Social Security’s medical and financial criteria.
State employees with at least one year of creditable service in TSERS may qualify for the Disability Income Plan of North Carolina (DIP-NC), which offers short-term and long-term disability benefits.
Report changes in income, living situation, or medical status to Social Security right away. This helps you avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate.
