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North Dakota • Speech/Language
People with aphasia in North Dakota can access federal and state benefits—including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and local assistive technology funding—to help with medical, communication, and daily living needs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, key North Dakota programs, financial tips, and where to get help.
To qualify for SSI (Supplemental Security Income), you must have limited income and resources, and meet Social Security’s definition of disability, including speech/language impairments like aphasia. SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) requires a work history with enough Social Security credits and a disabling condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death[1]. For both programs, aphasia must significantly limit your ability to work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) determines final eligibility, including medical severity and functional impact. You may qualify even if you can do some work, but not substantial gainful activity (SGA). The SSA’s Disability Evaluation Under Social Security includes aphasia under neurological disorders[6].
In North Dakota, SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid but must complete a separate application with their local County Social Service Office[1]. The maximum monthly SSI benefit in 2025 is $967 for eligible individuals in North Dakota[1]. For SSDI, benefit amounts depend on your earnings history. North Dakota’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews medical evidence and makes disability recommendations, but only SSA can approve benefits[2]. State-specific programs, like the North Dakota Assistive Financial Loan Program and Possibilities Grant, help cover devices and services not paid by insurance, though these are not entitlement programs and have their own application processes[3].
If you have aphasia and need disability benefits in North Dakota, start by applying for SSI or SSDI. You can apply online at the Social Security website, call SSA at 1-800-772-1213, or visit your local SSA office[2]. Gather medical records, work history, and personal ID before applying. If approved for SSI, also apply for North Dakota Medicaid through your county office[1]. Check North Dakota Assistive for help with communication devices and other assistive technology[3].
1. Gather Documentation: Collect medical records documenting your aphasia diagnosis, treatment history, and how it affects daily activities and work. Include contact information for doctors and therapists. 2. Choose Your Benefit: Decide if you’re applying for SSI (needs-based) or SSDI (work credits required). You can apply for both if unsure. 3. Submit Your Application: Apply online at the SSA website, by phone (1-800-772-1213, TTY 1-800-325-0778), or in person at a local SSA office. Do not send applications directly to North Dakota DDS—SSA forwards them as needed[2]. 4. Medical Review: North Dakota DDS will request your medical records and may schedule a consultative exam if more information is needed[2]. 5. Decision & Appeals: SSA will notify you of their decision. If denied, you can appeal—North Dakota’s average SSDI hearing wait time is about 9 months[4]. 6. Medicaid Application: If approved for SSI, apply for Medicaid at your county social service office for additional health coverage[1]. 7. Explore State Programs: Contact North Dakota Assistive for help funding speech-generating devices, apps, and other assistive technology not covered by insurance[3].
The main federal programs for people with aphasia in North Dakota are SSI and SSDI. SSI provides monthly cash assistance and Medicaid eligibility for those with limited income and resources. SSDI offers benefits based on your work history and may include Medicare after a waiting period. Both programs offer work incentives, such as the Trial Work Period (SSDI) and Student Earned Income Exclusion (SSI), to help you transition back to work without losing benefits immediately[1]. The Ticket to Work program provides free employment support services nationwide, including career counseling and job placement.
North Dakota offers several programs to support people with disabilities, including those with aphasia. Medicaid: If you receive SSI, you can qualify for North Dakota Medicaid by applying at your county social service office[1]. North Dakota Assistive: Provides low-interest loans and grants (Possibilities Grant) to help buy assistive technology, such as speech-generating devices and communication apps, when other funding sources fall short[3]. Disability Determination Services: While SSA makes the final benefit decision, North Dakota DDS staff review medical evidence and may arrange additional exams if needed[2]. Local Support Services: The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services offers programs to maximize independence and community inclusion for individuals with disabilities[5]. State-specific information for aphasia is limited; start here for broader disability resources and assistive technology funding.
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. While North Dakota does not have its own ABLE program, you can open an account through another state’s program—funds can be used for disability-related expenses, including communication devices and therapy. Learn more in our ABLE Accounts guide.
SSI is an income-based program. In North Dakota, the 2025 maximum monthly SSI benefit for an individual is $967[1]. Income from work or other sources may reduce your SSI payment, but certain work incentives and exclusions apply (see SSI & SSDI Work Incentives). SSDI does not have strict income limits, but you must not earn above the SGA threshold while receiving benefits[1].
If your income or living situation changes, promptly report it to SSA to avoid overpayments, which could require repayment or reduce future benefits. SSI particularly requires timely updates. See our guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes for details. North Dakota’s county social service offices can help with Medicaid reporting.
A qualified representative (such as a lawyer or advocate) can triple your chances of approval at a disability hearing. North Dakota’s average SSDI hearing wait time is 9 months—plan accordingly and consider getting help early in the process[4].
If insurance or other programs do not cover your communication device or speech app, North Dakota Assistive offers loans and grants—including the Possibilities Grant—to help bridge the gap. This can be especially helpful for people with aphasia needing specialized devices[3].
Always report changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to SSA and your county Medicaid office. Failing to report can result in overpayments, which you may need to pay back. Prompt updates help keep your benefits secure.
You may qualify for SSI if you have limited income and resources and your aphasia prevents substantial work. For SSDI, you need enough work credits. Both require medical evidence showing your impairment is severe and expected to last at least a year. SSA makes the final decision[1][6].
Apply directly through the Social Security Administration—online, by phone (1-800-772-1213), or at a local office. Do not apply at North Dakota DDS; they only review evidence after SSA receives your application[2].
Medicaid may cover medically necessary speech therapy, but you must qualify for Medicaid first. SSI recipients in North Dakota automatically qualify but must apply separately[1].
Yes, North Dakota Assistive offers loans and a Possibilities Grant for assistive technology not covered by insurance, including communication devices[3].
In 2025, the maximum monthly SSI benefit for an individual is $967, but your actual payment may be less depending on income and living situation[1].
You can appeal the decision. In North Dakota, the average wait for a hearing is about 9 months. Consider getting help from a qualified representative, as this can improve your chances of approval[4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or medical advice. Rules and benefit amounts may change; always confirm with official sources before making decisions.
Yes, both SSI and SSDI have work incentives, such as the Student Earned Income Exclusion (SSI) and Trial Work Period (SSDI), which let you earn some income without losing benefits right away. See more in our SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide[1].
The Possibilities Grant helps with the cost of assistive technology devices—like communication aids—for people with disabilities when insurance or other programs do not cover them[3].
Yes, SSI and Medicaid require periodic reviews and reporting of changes in your income, living situation, or medical condition. Failing to report can result in overpayments or loss of benefits.
An ABLE account lets you save for disability expenses without affecting your eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. North Dakotans can use another state’s ABLE program.
