Deaf-Blindness Benefits in North Dakota

• 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 based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid[6].
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, including those who are blind, deaf-blind, or have other disabilities. SSI is not based on work history[1].
• Both programs require a medical determination of disability according to federal rules. Deaf-Blindness is recognized as a qualifying condition if it meets the criteria for blindness and deafness[6].

• In North Dakota, SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid, but must apply at their local County Social Service Office[1].
• The maximum monthly SSI benefit in North Dakota for 2025 is $967[1].
• SSDI benefit amounts depend on your work record and contributions to Social Security[1].
• North Dakota does not have a separate state disability benefit for Deaf-Blindness, but residents may access other state and nonprofit supports for medical, housing, and transportation needs[3].
• Eligibility for state programs is often based on federal disability determinations, so approval for SSDI or SSI is usually required first[2].

• Start by applying for SSDI or SSI through the Social Security Administration (SSA).
• Gather medical records that document both hearing and vision loss.
• Contact your local SSA office or apply online.
• After SSA forwards your application, North Dakota Disability Determination Services (DDS) will review your medical evidence[2].
• If approved, you may also apply for Medicaid and other state supports[1].

• Step 1: Collect medical records from your doctors that show both hearing and vision loss. These records should include diagnoses, test results, and treatment plans.
• Step 2: Apply for SSDI or SSI online at www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability, by phone at (800) 772-1213, or in person at your local SSA office[2].
• Step 3: SSA will send your application to North Dakota Disability Determination Services (DDS). DDS will review your medical evidence and may request a consultative exam if needed[2].
• Step 4: Wait for a decision from SSA. If approved, you will receive a notice with your benefit amount and next steps.
• Step 5: If you receive SSI, apply for Medicaid at your local County Social Service Office[1].
• Step 6: Explore additional state and nonprofit programs for medical equipment, transportation, and home modifications[3].

• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Monthly cash payments for people with limited income and resources, including those who are deaf-blind[1].
• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): Monthly payments based on work history for people with disabilities, including deaf-blindness[1].
• Medicaid: Health coverage for low-income individuals, including SSI recipients[1].
• Medicare: Health coverage for SSDI recipients after a waiting period[1].
• Work Incentives: Programs like Ticket to Work help you keep benefits while working[4].

• Medicaid: North Dakota Medicaid covers eligible SSI recipients. Apply at your local County Social Service Office[1].
• Disability Determination Services (DDS): Reviews medical evidence for disability claims and works with SSA to make decisions[2].
• North Dakota Association for the Disabled (NDAD): Offers financial assistance for prescriptions, medical equipment, home modifications, transportation, and personal attendant care[3].
• Community Options Ticket to Work: Free career development and support for SSDI/SSI recipients aged 18-64[4].
• State Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities: Allows some people with disabilities to buy Medicaid if they work and earn too much for regular Medicaid[1].

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 program. Learn more about ABLE accounts and eligibility[ABLE Accounts].

SSI is for people with limited income and resources. In North Dakota, the maximum monthly SSI benefit is $967 in 2025. SSDI amounts depend on your work history. Both programs have rules about how income affects benefits[1].

If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Learn how to avoid overpayments and report changes[Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].

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

  TTY: 800-325-0778

  Website

  Apply for SSDI or SSI benefits.
• North Dakota Disability Determination Services
  Phone: (701) 328-8700

  TTY: 711

  Website

  Reviews medical evidence for disability claims.
• North Dakota Association for the Disabled (NDAD)
  Phone: 1-800-235-7113

  Website

  Financial assistance for medical needs.

• What are the main federal benefits for Deaf-Blindness in North Dakota?

  The main federal benefits are SSI and SSDI. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is based on work history. Both programs provide monthly cash payments and access to health coverage[1][6].

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

  Start by applying for SSDI or SSI through the Social Security Administration. Gather medical records, apply online, by phone, or in person. SSA will forward your application to North Dakota Disability Determination Services for review[2].

• Do SSI recipients in North Dakota get Medicaid?

  Yes, SSI recipients in North Dakota qualify for Medicaid. You must apply at your local County Social Service Office to receive Medicaid coverage[1].

• What work incentives are available for people with Deaf-Blindness in North Dakota?

  Work incentives include the Ticket to Work program, Impairment Related Work Expenses, and Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities. These programs help you keep benefits while working[1][4].

• Can I get help with medical equipment or home modifications in North Dakota?

  Yes, the North Dakota Association for the Disabled (NDAD) offers financial assistance for medical equipment, home modifications, and other needs. Contact NDAD for more information[3].

• How much money can I get from SSI in North Dakota?

  The maximum monthly SSI benefit in North Dakota for 2025 is $967. Your actual amount may be less if you have other income or resources[1].