People with intellectual disability in North Carolina can qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSDI, SSI, Medicaid waivers, and state employee disability plans. Eligibility depends on work history, income, and medical documentation. This guide covers how to apply, what benefits are available, and where to get help.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in North Carolina, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. You also need enough work credits based on your age and recent work history. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), eligibility is based on limited income and resources, not work history. Both programs require a detailed medical review by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to confirm your disability meets their criteria[1].
For SSDI, most adults need 20 work credits in the 10 years before disability begins, but younger people may qualify with fewer credits[1]. The SSA uses a five-step process to review your case, including whether you can do any substantial work[3].
For SSI, you must have low income and limited assets, and your disability must meet SSA’s definition[1].
In North Carolina, people with intellectual disability may qualify for state-specific programs like Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which help with daily living and support services[4]. State employees who participate in the Teachers’ and State Employees’ Retirement System (TSERS) may also qualify for the Disability Income Plan of North Carolina (DIP-NC), which provides short-term and long-term disability benefits[2].
Eligibility for DIP-NC depends on years of creditable service and meeting plan requirements. If you have at least one year of contributing membership service in TSERS, you may receive short-term disability (STD) benefits after a 60-day waiting period, up to $3,000 per month for up to a year[2]. After a year, if you remain disabled, you may qualify for long-term disability (LTD) benefits[2].
North Carolina also offers public input sessions for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to help shape future state plans and services[4].
ABLE accounts allow people with intellectual disability in North Carolina to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. You can contribute up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit) and the funds grow tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free[5].
For SSI in North Carolina, the income limit is based on federal guidelines. In 2025, the maximum federal SSI payment is $943 per month for an individual. Countable income includes wages, Social Security, and other sources, but not all income is counted. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size[1][5].
If you receive too much SSI or SSDI, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report changes in income, resources, living situation, or medical condition to Social Security promptly to avoid overpayments. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person[1].
Contact your local Social Security office or Department of Social Services for help with applications. Nonprofits and legal aid groups can also assist with the process[1][4].
Yes, if your intellectual disability prevents you from working for at least 12 months and you have enough work credits. The Social Security Administration reviews your medical records and work history to decide eligibility[1][3].
Medicaid waivers in North Carolina provide home and community-based services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These services help with daily living, therapy, and support, and are available through your local Department of Social Services[4].
Gather medical records and work history, then apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. Provide all requested documents and follow up regularly[1][3].
DIP-NC provides short-term and long-term disability benefits for state employees in TSERS. STD pays up to $3,000 per month for up to a year after a 60-day waiting period. LTD pays after a year if you remain disabled[2].
Yes, if you meet the eligibility requirements for both programs. SSDI is based on work credits, SSI on low income and resources. You can apply for both at the same time[1][5].
ABLE accounts let people with intellectual disability save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. You can contribute up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit)[5].
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, living situation, or medical condition to Social Security promptly. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person to avoid overpayments[1].
North Carolina offers Medicaid waivers, state employee disability benefits, and public input sessions for families. Contact your local Department of Social Services or the North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities for more information[4].
The decision time varies, but it can take several months. The Social Security Administration reviews your medical records and work history, and may ask for more information. You can check your application status online[1][3].
Yes, but there are limits. For SSDI, you cannot earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold, which is $1,550 per month in 2025. SSI has different rules and work incentives[1][5].
