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North Carolina • Physical/Mobility
People in North Carolina with a spinal cord injury can qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state-specific programs. These benefits help cover medical costs, living expenses, and support services. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what resources are available.
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 work history. For example, if you are age 31 or older, you generally need 20 work credits in the 10 years before your disability began. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a five-step process to review your case, including whether you can do your previous work or any other work. If you do not have enough work credits, you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if your income and assets are low. Both programs require that your spinal cord injury meets SSA’s definition of disability.
In North Carolina, state employees who participate in the Teachers’ and State Employees’ Retirement System (TSERS) may qualify for short-term and long-term disability benefits through the Disability Income Plan of North Carolina (DIP-NC). To qualify for short-term disability, you need at least one year of contributing membership service in TSERS within the 36 months before your disability. The short-term plan pays 50% of your monthly salary, up to $3,000 per month, for up to one year. If you remain disabled after one year, you may qualify for long-term disability benefits. State-specific eligibility may also depend on your years of creditable service and the nature of your disability.
ABLE accounts allow North Carolina residents with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. You can save up to $16,000 per year in an ABLE account, and the first $100,000 is not counted toward SSI asset limits. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses.
For SSI in North Carolina, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple in 2025. Some income is not counted, such as the first $20 of most income and the first $65 of earned income. For Medicaid, income limits vary by program and household size. For example, the income limit for Medicaid for adults is 138% of the federal poverty level, which is about $20,120 per year for an individual in 2025.
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to pay back the overpayment. Report any changes in your income, assets, or living situation to Social Security and Medicaid promptly. This includes changes in work, marriage, or moving. Reporting changes helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate.
Contact your local Department of Social Services or a disability advocate for help with your application. They can help you gather documents and complete forms.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid into Social Security but are now disabled. SSI is for people with low income and assets who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older. Both programs provide monthly payments, but eligibility rules are different.
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need to provide detailed information about your medical condition and work history.
Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities who would otherwise need institutional care. You can apply through your local Department of Social Services or the NC Medicaid website.
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits, but there are limits on how much you can earn. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals in 2025.
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits. You can open an ABLE account through the NC ABLE program website.
The approval process can take several months to over a year. It depends on the complexity of your case and how quickly you provide requested information.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. There are several levels of appeal, including reconsideration, a hearing, and review by the Appeals Council.
Yes, you can get help from a disability advocate, attorney, or your local Department of Social Services. They can help you gather documents and complete forms.
The federal income limit for SSI is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple in 2025. Some income is not counted, such as the first $20 of most income and the first $65 of earned income.
ABLE accounts allow you to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits. The first $100,000 in an ABLE account is not counted toward SSI asset limits.
