If you have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in North Carolina, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI, as well as state programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what extra help is available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in North Carolina, you must have a medical condition like PTSD that stops you from working for at least a year. You also need enough work credits. In 2025, most adults need 20 credits in the last 10 years before becoming disabled. If you earn too much from work (over $1,550/month in 2025), you may not qualify. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with low income and limited resources, regardless of work history[1][3][7].
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a five-step process to decide if your PTSD is disabling. They check if you are working, how severe your condition is, if it matches a listed impairment, if you can do past work, and if you can do any other work[3].
North Carolina state employees may qualify for disability benefits through the Disability Income Plan of North Carolina (DIP-NC) if they have enough creditable service in the Teachers’ and State Employees’ Retirement System (TSERS). For example, you need at least one year of service in the last 36 months to get short-term disability (STD) benefits. STD pays 50% of your salary, up to $3,000/month, for up to a year. If you stay disabled, you may get long-term disability (LTD) after that[2][5].
Other state programs may help with work, Medicaid, and more. Contact your local Department of Social Services or the Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (EIPD) for details[4].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for things like housing, education, and health care. North Carolina residents can open an ABLE account through the NC ABLE Program[6].
For SSI in 2025, the income limit is about $943/month for an individual. SSDI has no strict income limit, but you must not earn more than $1,550/month from work (Substantial Gainful Activity limit)[1][3].
If your income or situation changes, you must report it to Social Security. Not reporting can cause overpayments and penalties. Learn how to avoid overpayments and report changes to keep your benefits[4].
Contact the Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (EIPD) at 1-800-689-9090 for free help with disability benefits and work planning[4].
Yes, PTSD can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it stops you from working for at least a year and meets SSA rules. You need medical proof and may need work credits for SSDI[1][3].
SSDI payments depend on your work history. The average is about $1,400/month, but it can be more or less. SSI pays up to $943/month in 2025[1][3].
No, SSI is for people with low income and limited resources, regardless of work history. SSDI requires work credits[1][3].
State employees may get short-term or long-term disability through DIP-NC or NCFlex if they have enough service. Others may get Medicaid, SNAP, or job help[2][5][4].
It can take 3–6 months to get a decision from Social Security. Appeals may take longer. State disability decisions may be faster[1][3].
You can try to work, but if you earn more than $1,550/month, you may lose SSDI. SSI has work incentives to help you keep benefits while working[4][6].
You need records from a doctor or mental health professional that show your PTSD diagnosis, symptoms, and how it affects your ability to work[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, if you get SSI or meet income rules, you can get Medicaid. Contact your local Department of Social Services for details[4][6].
Yes, you may get Medicare after 24 months, Medicaid, SNAP, and ABLE accounts. State programs may also help[6].
You can appeal within 60 days of the denial. Ask for help from a disability advocate or legal aid if needed[1][3].
