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North Dakota • Chronic Illness
If you have cancer in North Dakota, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, plus state Medicaid and support programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what help is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, your cancer must be severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months. For SSDI, you need enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years). SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical proof from your doctors. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a list of conditions, including many cancers, to decide if you qualify. If your cancer is not on the list, you can still qualify if it is equally severe[7].
In North Dakota, if you qualify for SSI, you automatically qualify for Medicaid, which covers cancer treatment and related services. You must apply for Medicaid at your local County Social Service Office. North Dakota also offers state-specific financial help for prescriptions, medical equipment, home accessibility, and travel to medical appointments. These programs are run by organizations like the North Dakota Association for the Disabled (NDAD). Eligibility for state programs is based on your disability, income, and need[1][3].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. North Dakota offers ABLE accounts for eligible residents. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other disability-related expenses[3].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources. In North Dakota, the maximum SSI payment is $967 per month in 2025. SSDI payments depend on your work history. Both programs reduce benefits if you earn income, but work incentives can help you keep more of your benefits[1].
Always report changes in income, work, or health to SSA and Medicaid. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back[1].
Contact your local SSA office or NDAD for free help with applications and paperwork.
Yes, if your cancer stops you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must provide medical proof and meet income or work history rules[7].
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local SSA office. Do not apply directly to Disability Determination Services[2].
Medicaid covers cancer treatment for SSI recipients. NDAD offers help with prescriptions, equipment, home modifications, and travel to medical appointments[3].
Yes, work incentives like Ticket to Work help you keep benefits while earning income. Some programs let you keep Medicaid even if you work[1][4].
The maximum SSI payment in North Dakota is $967 per month in 2025. Your actual payment may be less if you have other income[1].
Yes, always report changes to SSA and Medicaid. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and penalties[1].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes[1].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes, NDAD offers financial help for prescribed medical equipment like walkers, wheelchairs, and shower chairs[3].
Yes, NDAD can help with gas and lodging for out-of-town medical travel if you are referred by a local doctor[3].
North Dakota has a Medicaid Buy-In program for workers with disabilities. You may be able to keep Medicaid even if you earn income[1].
