People who are blind in North Dakota can qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state programs and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a qualifying work history and meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of blindness. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must meet income and asset limits and be blind as defined by federal rules. Blindness is defined as having central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correction, or a visual field of 20 degrees or less. Both programs require medical evidence of your condition. SSDI is based on your work credits, while SSI is based on financial need.
In North Dakota, people who are blind and receive SSI automatically qualify for Medicaid, but must apply separately at their local County Social Service Office. The maximum SSI payment in North Dakota is $967 per month in 2025. SSDI payments depend on your work history and are not set by the state. North Dakota also offers work incentives for blind beneficiaries, such as higher SGA (Substantial Gainful Activity) levels and special work expense deductions. State-specific programs may provide additional support for employment, transportation, and home modifications.
Step 1: Review the federal definition of blindness and confirm your eligibility.
Step 2: Collect medical records, proof of income, and other required documents.
Step 3: Apply for SSDI or SSI through Social Security:
Step 4: Social Security will forward your application to North Dakota Disability Determination Services (DDS) for review.
Step 5: DDS may request additional medical evidence or schedule a consultative exam.
Step 6: Wait for a decision from Social Security. Only Social Security can approve benefits.
Step 7: If approved for SSI, apply for Medicaid at your local County Social Service Office.
Step 8: Explore work incentives and support programs if you plan to work.
SSA: How to Apply (2025-11-06)
ND DDS: Applying for Benefits (2025-11-06)
SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Monthly cash payments for people with limited income and resources who are blind.
SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): Monthly payments for people who are blind and have a qualifying work history.
Medicare: Health coverage for SSDI recipients after a waiting period.
Medicaid: Health coverage for SSI recipients.
Work Incentives: Programs like Trial Work Period, Impairment Related Work Expenses, and Plan for Achieving Self-Support help blind beneficiaries work while keeping benefits.
SSA: SSI vs SSDI (2025-11-06)
SSA: Work Incentives (2025-11-06)
Medicaid: Automatic eligibility for SSI recipients; apply at local County Social Service Office.
Disability Determination Services (DDS): Reviews medical evidence for Social Security applications.
Work Incentives: North Dakota offers special work incentives for blind beneficiaries, including higher SGA levels and work expense deductions.
Financial Assistance: ND Association for the Disabled (NDAD) may provide help with prescriptions, medical equipment, home modifications, and transportation.
Ticket to Work: Free program to help blind individuals find employment and keep benefits.
ND DDS: Disability Determination Services (2025-11-06)
NDAD: Financial Assistance (2025-11-06)
Community Options: Ticket to Work (2025-11-06)
ABLE accounts let people with blindness save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. North Dakota residents can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE program. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation.
SSI has strict income and asset limits. In 2025, the maximum SSI payment in North Dakota is $967 per month. SSDI payments depend on your work history. Both programs have rules about how work income affects benefits. Blind individuals may qualify for special work incentives that allow higher earnings without losing benefits.
You must report changes in income, living situation, or medical status to Social Security. Failing to report can cause overpayments and penalties. Use the SSA online portal or contact your local office to report changes.
Contact your local Social Security office or County Social Service Office for help with your application. Nonprofits like NDAD and Community Options also offer support.
The maximum SSI payment for blindness in North Dakota is $967 per month in 2025. This amount may be reduced if you have other income or resources.
Yes, if you receive SSI in North Dakota, you automatically qualify for Medicaid. You must apply separately at your local County Social Service Office.
Apply for SSDI or SSI through Social Security online, by phone, or in person. Social Security will forward your application to North Dakota DDS for review.
Yes, North Dakota offers work incentives for blind beneficiaries, such as higher SGA levels and work expense deductions. These help you keep benefits while working.
You need medical records showing your vision meets federal blindness criteria, such as central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correction, or a visual field of 20 degrees or less.
Yes, North Dakota offers Medicaid, work incentives, and financial assistance through NDAD for prescriptions, medical equipment, and home modifications.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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The decision time varies, but most applications are reviewed within a few months. DDS may request additional medical evidence, which can extend the process.
Yes, NDAD may provide transportation assistance for paratransit services if you have mobility or cognitive issues and cannot use regular public transportation.
Ticket to Work is a free program that helps blind individuals find employment and keep benefits. It offers vocational support and work incentives.
Yes, you must report changes in income, living situation, or medical status to Social Security to avoid overpayments and penalties.
