People in North Carolina with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI), state disability plans, Medicaid, and work support programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) in North Carolina, you must meet Social Security's definition of disability. This means your Chronic Fatigue Syndrome must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For SSDI, you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. For SSI, your income and resources must be below set limits. Children with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may also qualify for benefits if their condition meets the criteria and their parents meet certain requirements[4].
In North Carolina, state employees who are part of the Teachers’ and State Employees’ Retirement System (TSERS) may be eligible for short-term and long-term disability benefits through the Disability Income Plan of North Carolina (DIP-NC). To get short-term disability (STD), you need at least one year of contributing membership service in TSERS within the last 36 months. STD pays 50% of your monthly salary, up to $3,000 per month, after a 60-day waiting period, for up to 365 days. If you remain disabled, long-term disability (LTD) may begin after one year, paying a monthly benefit for as long as you qualify as disabled. Eligibility and benefit amounts may be limited if you have fewer than five years of creditable service[1].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. North Carolina residents can open an ABLE account to save for qualified disability expenses. Contributions are not tax-deductible, but earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free[3].
For SSI, the federal income limit in 2025 is $914 per month for an individual and $1,371 for a couple. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind) and still be considered disabled. Medicaid income limits vary based on household size and other factors[4].
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and Medicaid as soon as possible to avoid overpayments. Keep records of all communications and payments[4].
Contact the Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (EIPD) for free help with applying for benefits and finding work support in North Carolina[3].
Attend public input sessions hosted by the North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities to help shape future services and supports for people with disabilities[2].
Yes, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI) in North Carolina if it meets Social Security's definition of disability. You must show that your condition is severe, prevents you from working, and is expected to last at least 12 months[4].
State employees in North Carolina may qualify for short-term and long-term disability benefits through the Disability Income Plan of North Carolina (DIP-NC). These benefits are available if you are part of the Teachers’ and State Employees’ Retirement System (TSERS)[1].
You can apply for SSI/SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. Be sure to provide medical records and work history to support your application[4].
For DIP-NC short-term disability, there is a 60-day waiting period before benefits start. For SSDI, there is a 5-month waiting period before payments begin. Medicare coverage starts after 24 months of receiving SSDI[1][5].
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits, but there are limits on how much you can earn. Social Security has work incentives to help people with disabilities try working without losing benefits[4].
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 in North Carolina can help cover medical costs for people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. The Community Alternatives Program for Disabled Adults (CAP/DA) provides home and community-based services for adults with disabilities who are medically fragile[8].
The Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (EIPD) program in North Carolina helps people with disabilities prepare for and find work. You can contact EIPD for job training, support, and work incentives[3].
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. North Carolina residents can open an ABLE account to save for qualified disability expenses[3].
If your benefits are reduced or stopped, contact Social Security or your local Department of Social Services to appeal the decision. You can also seek help from advocacy organizations or legal aid[4].
Yes, the North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities (NCCDD) holds public input sessions to gather feedback and ideas for improving services and supports for people with disabilities in North Carolina[2].
