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North Dakota • Neurological/Developmental
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in North Dakota may qualify for federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and what support programs are available to help with independence, financial security, and community inclusion.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI), you must have a medically documented condition—such as Autism Spectrum Disorder—that significantly limits your ability to work and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. SSI is needs-based (low income/resources), while SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security contributions. SSI is generally for those with little or no income and minimal resources, while SSDI requires a certain number of work credits, usually 40 credits with 20 earned in the last 10 years ending with the year your disability begins[6].
In North Dakota, SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid but must still apply through their local County Social Service Office[1]. The maximum SSI payment in 2025 is $967 per month for individuals[1]. The state does not offer additional state supplemental payments for SSI. For SSDI, your benefit amount depends on your earnings record. North Dakota Disability Determination Services (DDS) evaluates medical evidence for all claims, but only the Social Security Administration makes final eligibility decisions[2]. If you are between 18 and 64 and receive SSI or SSDI, you can also participate in the Ticket to Work program for employment supports[3]. State-specific information is limited; start here: North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services and North Dakota DDS for more details[2][5].
To apply for SSI or SSDI in North Dakota, start at the Social Security Administration (SSA)—online, by phone, or in person at a local office[2]. You do not apply directly to North Dakota agencies. If you have Autism Spectrum Disorder, gather medical records, school records, and work history before applying. Expect to complete multiple forms and possibly a medical exam arranged by the state Disability Determination Services[2].
Gather Documentation: Collect medical records, autism diagnoses, school reports, and any work history. These documents help prove the severity and impact of your condition[2].
Choose How to Apply: Apply online at the SSA’s disability benefits page, by phone at (800) 772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778), or visit your local SSA office[2]. Do not send applications to North Dakota DDS—they only review claims after SSA forwards them[2].
Complete the Application: Fill out all required forms about your disability, work history, and personal information. Be thorough and accurate.
Medical Review: North Dakota DDS will review your medical evidence. If needed, they may schedule a consultative exam[2].
Wait for a Decision: DDS forwards its decision to SSA, who will notify you of approval or denial. If denied, you can appeal—consider getting help from a representative, which can triple your chances of approval[4].
Apply for Medicaid: If approved for SSI, apply for Medicaid at your local County Social Service Office[1].
Explore Work Supports: If interested in working, consider the Ticket to Work program for job training and support while keeping some benefits[3].
SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Provides monthly payments to eligible low-income individuals with disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder. Payments are reduced if you have other income, but work incentives like Impairment Related Work Expenses and the Ticket to Work program can help you keep more of your earnings and benefits[1][3].
SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): For those with a work history who have paid into Social Security. Benefit amount depends on your earnings record. Work incentives include a Trial Work Period and extended Medicare coverage even if you return to work[1][3].
Medicaid: SSI recipients qualify automatically but must apply through their North Dakota County Social Service Office[1]. Medicaid can cover a range of services, including therapies and supports for Autism Spectrum Disorder.
State-specific information for Autism Spectrum Disorder benefits in North Dakota is limited. North Dakota does not offer a state supplemental payment to SSI. The state’s Medicaid program covers SSI recipients, and the Department of Health and Human Services provides general support and training to maximize independence for people with disabilities[1][5]. For Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers, check with the state Medicaid office—these programs may offer additional supports, but details are not specified in official sources. North Dakota’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews all medical evidence for disability claims but does not determine eligibility—only the Social Security Administration does[2]. To learn about all benefits in your state, see the North Dakota state hub[5].
ABLE accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts for individuals with disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder. They allow you to save for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other needs-based programs. For more, see the guide on ABLE accounts in North Dakota.
SSI is strictly income- and resource-based. In 2025, the maximum federal SSI payment in North Dakota is $967 per month for an individual, but your actual payment may be less if you have other income or resources[1]. SSDI payments depend on your work history and are not directly affected by your current income, but earnings can impact SSDI if you return to work.
If your income or resources change, promptly report these to Social Security to avoid overpayments. Overpayments must be repaid and can cause future benefit reductions. Use the guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes to stay compliant and protect your benefits.
Need help? North Dakota Disability Determination Services can answer questions about your claim after you apply: (701) 328-8700. Visit your local SSA office to start an application, or call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) for federal disability benefits[2].
If you’re interested in working, the Ticket to Work program offers free job training and support. You can keep some benefits—and even your Medicaid or Medicare—while you try out employment. Enrollment is open to those aged 18–64 who receive SSI or SSDI[3].
In 2025, the maximum SSI payment in North Dakota is $967 per month for individuals, but your actual payment may be less depending on income and resources[1].
SSI is needs-based for those with low income and resources, while SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security contributions[1]. See the SSI vs SSDI guide for details.
Yes, programs like Ticket to Work and other work incentives allow you to work and keep some benefits, including Medicaid and Medicare[3]. See SSI & SSDI Work Incentives.
If you are approved for SSI, you automatically qualify for North Dakota Medicaid but must apply through your local County Social Service Office[1].
You can appeal. Getting help from a representative can significantly increase your chances of approval—appellants with reps are up to three times more likely to be approved[4].
In North Dakota, the average wait time for a hearing is about 9 months, and the average approval rate is 61%—slightly higher than the national average[4].
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Programs and benefits may change. Always verify details and eligibility with the official agencies.
No, North Dakota does not provide a state supplement to the federal SSI payment; the maximum is set by the federal government[1].
The Ticket to Work program helps people aged 18–64 who receive SSI or SSDI explore employment and keep some benefits while working[3]. It is free and voluntary.
Yes, ABLE accounts are available to all qualifying individuals with disabilities nationwide, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder. See the ABLE account guide.
You can apply online, by phone, or at your local SSA office. Contact North Dakota DDS for questions about your application after it is submitted[2].
