People with Deaf-Blindness in North Carolina can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and employment support. This guide explains eligibility, application steps, and key resources.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in North Carolina, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) requirements. For SSDI, you need enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years) and a medical condition that prevents substantial work for at least a year. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Deaf-Blindness is considered a qualifying disability if it meets SSA’s definition of disability, which includes inability to work due to the condition for at least 12 months or resulting in death. Children with Deaf-Blindness may also qualify for benefits if the disability began before age 22 and meets SSA criteria [4].
In North Carolina, state employees with Deaf-Blindness may qualify for the Disability Income Plan of North Carolina (DIP-NC) if they participate in the Teachers’ and State Employees’ Retirement System (TSERS). Eligibility depends on years of creditable service. Employees with at least one year of service may receive short-term disability (STD) benefits after a 60-day waiting period, paying up to 50% of monthly salary (max $3,000/month) for up to a year. If disabled longer, long-term disability (LTD) benefits may be available. State-specific programs like the Community Alternatives Program for Disabled Adults (CAP/DA) provide home and community-based services for those who are medically fragile, including people with Deaf-Blindness [1][8].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI and Medicaid. In North Carolina, you can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed. ABLE accounts are available to those whose disability began before age 26 [3].
SSI has strict income and resource limits. In 2025, the federal SSI payment is $943/month for an individual. Countable income includes wages, Social Security, and other sources. Resources (assets) must be under $2,000 for an individual. SSDI has no income limits, but substantial earnings may affect eligibility. State programs may have different limits [4][3].
It is important to report changes in income, resources, or medical status to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits. Report changes promptly to Social Security and your state agency. Keep records of all communications and changes [3].
Contact your local Department of Social Services or NCWorks Career Center for help with applications and support.
Deaf-Blindness is a combination of hearing and vision loss that affects communication, mobility, and daily living. It can be congenital or acquired and varies in severity.
To qualify for SSDI, you need enough work credits and a medical condition that prevents substantial work for at least a year. Deaf-Blindness must meet SSA’s definition of disability [4].
Yes, people with Deaf-Blindness may qualify for Medicaid if they meet income and resource limits. Medicaid covers health care and long-term support services [3].
CAP/DA is a Medicaid waiver program providing home and community-based services for medically fragile adults, including those with Deaf-Blindness. Services may include personal care and assistive technology [8].
Apply for SSI by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visiting ssa.gov. Provide proof of income, resources, and medical records [3].
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI and Medicaid. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed [3].
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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Yes, state employees with Deaf-Blindness may qualify for the Disability Income Plan of North Carolina (DIP-NC), providing short-term and long-term disability benefits after a 60-day waiting period [1].
Working may affect SSI and SSDI benefits. SSI has strict income limits, while SSDI has a trial work period and work incentives. Report changes to avoid overpayments [3].
North Carolina offers employment support through NCWorks Career Centers and the Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (EIPD) program, providing job training and counseling [3].
Report changes in income, resources, or medical status to Social Security and your state agency promptly to avoid overpayments. Keep records of all communications [3].
