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North Dakota • Neurological/Developmental
People with cerebral palsy in North Dakota can qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state programs for Medicaid, work incentives, and community support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. SSDI is for people who have paid into Social Security through work. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability, which includes severe cerebral palsy that limits major life activities for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death [ssa.gov/benefits/disability/qualify.html, 2025-11-06].
In North Dakota, SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid, but must apply through their local County Social Service Office. The maximum SSI payment in North Dakota for 2025 is $967 per month. SSDI payments depend on your work history and Social Security contributions. North Dakota also offers special work incentives for people with disabilities, including Medicaid buy-in programs and vocational support. These programs help people with cerebral palsy work while keeping health coverage and other benefits [rsiminot.com/social-security-benefits-project, 2025-11-06; hhs.nd.gov/dds, 2025-11-06].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities 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 disability-related expenses like education, housing, and transportation. Learn more about ABLE accounts and eligibility at /guides/able-accounts.
SSI payments are reduced if you have income. In North Dakota, the maximum SSI payment for 2025 is $967 per month. SSDI payments depend on your work history. Both programs have rules about earned and unearned income. Report all changes to SSA to avoid overpayments. See /guides/overpayments-and-reporting for details.
You must report changes in income, living situation, or medical status to SSA. Failure to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. If you get too much money, SSA may ask for it back. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. Learn more at /guides/overpayments-and-reporting.
Contact your local Social Security office or Disability Determination Services for support. Nonprofits like Community Options offer free help with applications and work incentives.
Yes, if you meet the rules for both programs. SSDI is based on work history, SSI on income and resources. Many people with cerebral palsy qualify for both. Check your eligibility on SSA.gov or with a local agency.
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at (800) 772-1213, or in person at a local SSA office. You cannot apply directly to state agencies. SSA will send your case to Disability Determination Services for review.
North Dakota offers work incentives like Medicaid buy-in, vocational rehabilitation, and the Ticket to Work program. These help you work while keeping health coverage and other benefits. See /guides/work-incentives for details.
Yes, SSI recipients in North Dakota qualify for Medicaid. You must apply at your local County Social Service Office. Medicaid covers health care, therapy, and other services for people with disabilities.
SSI payments are reduced if you have income. The maximum SSI payment in North Dakota for 2025 is $967 per month. The exact amount depends on your income and living situation. Use the SSI Income Estimator tool for a personalized estimate.
If denied, you can appeal. North Dakota’s average approval rate at hearings is about 61%. Having a qualified representative can increase your chances. Contact a local advocate or agency for help with appeals.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes, children with cerebral palsy may qualify for SSI, Medicaid, and early intervention services. Parents can apply through SSA and local agencies. Check with your County Social Service Office for more resources.
Yes, work incentives help you keep benefits while working. Programs like IRWE, PASS, and Medicaid buy-in let you earn income without losing health coverage or payments. See /guides/work-incentives for details.
The average wait for a hearing in North Dakota is about 9 months. The decision is usually made within 330 days. Having a representative can speed up the process and improve your chances.
North Dakota offers vocational rehab, Medicaid waivers, meal delivery, transportation, and community support. Contact local agencies like Community Options or your County Social Service Office for help.
