People with Huntington’s Disease in North Carolina can access federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, state disability programs, Medicaid waivers, and work supports. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months and have enough work credits. Huntington’s Disease is listed as a qualifying condition. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and meet the disability definition. Children with Huntington’s Disease may qualify for benefits if their parent receives Social Security benefits. Adults with a disability that began before age 22 may also qualify for benefits based on a parent’s record. ^1
In North Carolina, public employees in the Teachers’ and State Employees’ Retirement System (TSERS) may qualify for disability benefits through the Disability Income Plan of North Carolina (DIP-NC). If you have at least one year of creditable service in TSERS, you can get short-term disability (STD) and long-term disability (LTD) benefits. STD pays 50% of your monthly salary, up to $3,000 per month, for up to 365 days. LTD pays a monthly benefit if you remain disabled after a year. ^2
Each step may require different documents and forms. See the official links for details.
These programs can help cover medical costs, living expenses, and long-term care.
These programs can help with income replacement, medical costs, and long-term care.
ABLE accounts let you save for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit) and the account grows tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are tax-free. North Carolina residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program. See the official ABLE account guide for details.
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943/month (2025). For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you cannot have substantial earnings. For Medicaid, income limits vary by program and household size. For ABLE accounts, you can save up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit). See the official guides for current limits.
Report any changes in income, resources, or health to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment or benefit reduction. See the official guide for how to report changes and avoid overpayments.
Contact Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (EIPD) for personalized benefits counseling and work support.
Yes, Huntington’s Disease is a qualifying condition for SSDI if it meets Social Security’s definition of disability. You must have enough work credits and be unable to work for at least 12 months.
Yes, if you meet income and disability requirements. Medicaid can help cover medical costs and long-term care. You may also qualify for Medicaid waivers for home care.
Public employees in TSERS may qualify for DIP-NC, which provides short-term and long-term disability benefits. STD pays 50% of salary, up to $3,000/month, for up to 365 days. LTD pays a monthly benefit if you remain disabled after a year.
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need medical records, work history, and personal information.
An ABLE account lets you save for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit) and the account grows tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are tax-free.
Yes, there are work incentives and programs to help you work while receiving benefits. Contact EIPD for work support and benefits counseling.
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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SSDI is based on work history and Social Security taxes paid. SSI is based on financial need and is for people with limited income and resources. Both can provide monthly payments for disability.
Report any changes in income, resources, or health to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment or benefit reduction. See the official guide for how to report changes.
Yes, programs like CAP/DA provide home and community-based services for disabled adults at risk of institutionalization. Contact your local Department of Social Services for details.
Contact EIPD for work support and benefits counseling. You can also use the DB101 North Carolina website for benefits planning tools and expert help.
