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North Carolina • Rare/Genetic
People with Williams Syndrome in North Carolina may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and state employee disability plans. Eligibility depends on medical need, work history, and income. This guide explains how to apply and what support is 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 and meet work credit requirements. In 2025, you earn one work credit for every $1,730 in covered earnings, up to four per year. Most adults need 40 credits (10 years of work), but younger people need fewer. You must also earn below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit: $1,550/month for non-blind, $2,590/month for blind individuals in 2025. If you have limited income and resources, you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) instead[1].
Williams Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that can qualify for disability benefits if it causes significant limitations in daily life or work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews each case to see if the condition meets their definition of disability[3].
North Carolina offers several disability benefits beyond federal programs. State employees who are part of the Teachers’ and State Employees’ Retirement System (TSERS) may qualify for the Disability Income Plan of North Carolina (DIP-NC). This plan provides short-term disability (STD) and long-term disability (LTD) benefits. STD pays 50% of your monthly salary (up to $3,000/month) for up to a year after a 60-day waiting period. LTD pays a monthly benefit if you remain disabled after a year[2].
If you have fewer than five years of creditable service, benefits may be limited. North Carolina also offers Medicaid, Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, and work support programs for people with disabilities. These programs can help with medical care, daily living, and employment[4].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In North Carolina, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed. ABLE accounts can help pay for education, housing, transportation, and more[5].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple. North Carolina may have additional limits for Medicaid and other state programs. Income from work, SSDI, and other sources counts toward these limits. Some income is not counted, such as the first $65 of earnings and half of earnings above that[4].
If you get too much SSI or SSDI, you may have to pay it back. Report changes in income, work, or living situation to Social Security right away. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you get an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a payment plan[4].
Contact the Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (EIPD) at 1-800-689-9090 for free help with disability benefits and job support.
Medicaid waivers can help you get home and community-based services. Contact your local Department of Social Services for more information.
Yes, Williams Syndrome can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it causes significant limitations in daily life or work. The Social Security Administration reviews each case to see if the condition meets their definition of disability. Medical records and documentation are important for your application[3].
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov to start your application. You will need your Social Security number, medical records, work history, and proof of income. You can apply online, by phone, or in person[4].
State employees may qualify for the Disability Income Plan of North Carolina (DIP-NC) and NCFlex disability plans. These provide short-term and long-term disability benefits. Medicaid, Medicaid waivers, and work support programs are also available[2][4].
SSDI payments depend on your work history and earnings. SSI payments are up to $943/month for an individual in 2025. DIP-NC pays up to $3,000/month for short-term disability. NCFlex pays up to $12,500/month for long-term disability[2][8].
Yes, you can work while getting disability benefits, but your earnings must be below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit: $1,550/month for non-blind, $2,590/month for blind individuals in 2025. Some work incentives let you keep benefits while you try to work[4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most up-to-date information.
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In North Carolina, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed[5].
Contact your local Department of Social Services (DSS) office or call 1-888-245-0179 to apply for Medicaid. You may also apply online through ePass.nc.gov. Medicaid provides health coverage for people with disabilities, children, and families[4].
Medicaid waivers help people with disabilities live in the community instead of institutions. Services include personal care, respite, and home modifications. Contact your local DSS office or visit the Medicaid website for more information[4].
Yes, the Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (EIPD) program offers job training and support. Contact EIPD at 1-800-689-9090 or visit a local NCWorks Career Center for help[4].
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. Contact Social Security or your local DSS office for information on the appeals process. You may also get help from a disability advocate or attorney[4].
