Arthritis Benefits in North Dakota: Eligibility, How to Apply, and Support

• To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, have a disability that prevents work for at least 12 months, and meet the work credit requirement (usually 20 credits in the last 10 years)[^5].
• SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Arthritis may qualify if it severely limits your ability to work and you meet income and asset limits[^5].
• Both programs require a medical determination that your arthritis meets Social Security’s definition of disability[^5].

• In North Dakota, SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid, but must apply through their local County Social Service Office[^1].
• The maximum SSI benefit in North Dakota is $967 per month in 2025[^1].
• SSDI payments depend on your work history and contributions to Social Security[^1].
• North Dakota offers work incentives for SSI and SSDI recipients, including Medicaid buy-in for workers with disabilities[^1].
• State-specific programs may provide additional support for people with arthritis, such as home-delivered meals and community services[^4].

• Gather medical records that show how arthritis affects your ability to work.
• Apply online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office.
• Submit your application through Social Security, not state agencies.
• Follow up with Disability Determination Services if requested.
• Contact local agencies for additional support and resources[^2].

• Step 1: Collect medical evidence, including doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment history related to your arthritis.
• Step 2: Apply for SSDI or SSI through Social Security:
  • Online at ssa.gov/benefits/disability
  • By phone at (800) 772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778)
  • In person at your local SSA office[^2]
• Step 3: Social Security will forward your application to Disability Determination Services (DDS) for a medical review.
• Step 4: DDS may request additional medical information or schedule a consultative exam.
• Step 5: Wait for a decision from Social Security. If denied, you can appeal.
• Step 6: If approved, apply for Medicaid through your local County Social Service Office if you receive SSI[^1].
• Step 7: Explore work incentives and other state programs for additional support[^1][^2].

• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Monthly cash payments for people with limited income and resources who have a qualifying disability[^5].
• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): Monthly payments for people who have worked and paid into Social Security[^5].
• Medicare: Health insurance for SSDI recipients after a waiting period[^5].
• Medicaid: Health coverage for SSI recipients and some low-income workers with disabilities[^5].

• Medicaid: Automatic eligibility for SSI recipients; apply through local County Social Service Office[^1].
• Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities: Allows some people with disabilities to work and keep Medicaid coverage[^1].
• Disability Determination Services (DDS): Reviews medical evidence for disability claims[^2].
• Community Services: Support and training for independence and community inclusion[^4].
• Home-Delivered Meals: Available for eligible seniors and people with disabilities[^6].
• Work Incentives: Programs like IRWE, PASS, and 1619(b) help people with disabilities work while keeping benefits[^1].

ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. North Dakota residents can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses[^3].

SSI has strict income and asset limits. In North Dakota, the maximum SSI benefit is $967/month in 2025. SSDI payments depend on work history and contributions to Social Security[^1].

You must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Failure to report can result in penalties or loss of benefits[^1].

• Social Security Administration
  Phone: (800) 772-1213

  TTY: 800-325-0778

  Website

  Apply for SSDI or SSI online, by phone, or in person.
• Disability Determination Services (ND)
  Phone: (701) 328-8700

  TTY: 711

  Website

  Medical review for disability claims.

• Can arthritis qualify for disability benefits in North Dakota?

  Yes, arthritis can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it severely limits your ability to work and meets Social Security’s medical criteria. You must provide medical evidence of your condition and how it affects your daily life[^5].

• What is the maximum SSI benefit in North Dakota?

  The maximum SSI benefit in North Dakota is $967 per month in 2025. This amount may be reduced if you have other income or resources[^1].

• Do I need to apply for Medicaid separately if I get SSI?

  Yes, SSI recipients in North Dakota must apply for Medicaid through their local County Social Service Office, even though they automatically qualify[^1].

• How do I apply for disability benefits in North Dakota?

  Apply for SSDI or SSI through Social Security online, by phone, or in person. Social Security will forward your application to Disability Determination Services for medical review[^2].

• What work incentives are available for people with arthritis in North Dakota?

  North Dakota offers work incentives like IRWE, PASS, and Medicaid buy-in for workers with disabilities. These programs help you work while keeping benefits[^1].

• Can I get help with my application?

  Yes, you can get help from a disability advocate or attorney. Research shows applicants with representatives have up to three times greater chance of approval[^3].