Down Syndrome Benefits in North Dakota

• To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a work history and enough Social Security credits. SSDI is for those who paid into Social Security and now have a disability that prevents work for at least 12 months [^1].
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, including children and adults with disabilities. SSI is not based on work history [^1].
• Both programs require a medical determination of disability. Down Syndrome is generally considered a qualifying condition if it limits work or daily activities [^1].
• The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses strict rules to decide if someone is disabled. Medical records and other evidence are needed [^1].

• In North Dakota, SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid, but must apply through their local County Social Service Office [^2].
• The maximum SSI payment in North Dakota for 2025 is $967 per month for an individual [^2].
• SSDI payments depend on your work history and contributions to Social Security, not state rules [^2].
• North Dakota offers work incentives and support programs for people with disabilities, including those with Down Syndrome, to help with employment and independence [^2].
• State agencies provide training, support, and resources for individuals and families to maximize independence and community inclusion [^3].

• Gather medical records and proof of income.
• Apply for SSI or SSDI online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office.
• After applying, Disability Determination Services (DDS) will review your medical evidence.
• If approved, you may also apply for state benefits like Medicaid [^2].

• Step 1: Collect all medical records related to Down Syndrome and any other health conditions. Include reports from doctors, therapists, and schools.
• Step 2: Apply for SSI or SSDI through the Social Security Administration (SSA). You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local SSA office [^2].
• Step 3: SSA will send your application to North Dakota Disability Determination Services (DDS) for a medical review. DDS may ask for more information or schedule a medical exam [^2].
• Step 4: Wait for a decision from SSA. If approved, you will receive a notice with details about your benefits.
• Step 5: If you get SSI, apply for Medicaid at your local County Social Service Office. You may also qualify for other state programs [^2].
• Step 6: If you want to work, ask about work incentives and the Ticket to Work program for support and to keep your benefits [^3].

• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Monthly cash payments for people with limited income and resources. SSI also provides access to Medicaid in most states [^1].
• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): Monthly payments for people with a work history who are now disabled. SSDI may provide access to Medicare after a waiting period [^1].
• Ticket to Work: A free program for people aged 18-64 who get SSI or SSDI. It helps with career development, job training, and keeping benefits while working [^3].
• Work Incentives: Special rules that let you keep benefits while you try to work, such as Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWE) and Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS) [^2].

• Medicaid: North Dakota Medicaid covers health care for SSI recipients and others who qualify. Apply through your local County Social Service Office [^2].
• Disability Determination Services (DDS): Reviews medical evidence for disability claims and works with SSA to make decisions [^2].
• Ticket to Work Program: Partners with Social Security to help people with disabilities find jobs and gain independence. Free and voluntary for those aged 18-64 [^3].
• Community Support Services: State agencies provide training, support, and resources for individuals and families to maximize independence and community inclusion [^3].
• Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): May provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities who need extra support [^3].

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 how they work [^4].

• SSI has strict income and resource limits. In 2025, the maximum SSI payment in North Dakota is $967 per month for an individual [^2].
• SSDI payments depend on your work history and are not based on income limits like SSI [^2].
• Working may reduce SSI payments, but work incentives can help you keep more of your benefits [^2].

If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to SSA. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Learn how to avoid overpayments and report changes [^5].

• Disability Determination Services (DDS)
  Phone: (701) 328-8700

  TTY: 711

  Website

  For medical disability determinations.
• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Website

  For benefit applications and questions.
• Community Options North Dakota
  Phone: 701-235-8411

  Email: [email protected]

  Website

  For Ticket to Work and career support.

• Does Down Syndrome qualify for disability benefits in North Dakota?

  Yes, Down Syndrome often qualifies for SSI or SSDI if it limits work or daily activities. You must meet SSA's medical and financial rules. Medical records are needed to prove eligibility [^1].

• How much SSI can I get in North Dakota in 2025?

  The maximum SSI payment in North Dakota for 2025 is $967 per month for an individual. This amount may be less if you have other income or resources [^2].

• Do I get Medicaid with SSI in North Dakota?

  Yes, SSI recipients in North Dakota qualify for Medicaid. You must apply through your local County Social Service Office to get coverage [^2].

• Can I work and still get SSI or SSDI?

  Yes, work incentives let you keep benefits while you try to work. Programs like Ticket to Work and IRWE help you earn income without losing all your benefits [^2][^3].

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

  Apply for SSI or SSDI through the Social Security Administration online, by phone, or in person. DDS will review your medical evidence and SSA will make the final decision [^2].

• What is the Ticket to Work program?

  Ticket to Work is a free program for people aged 18-64 who get SSI or SSDI. It helps with job training, career development, and keeping benefits while working [^3].

• Are there state programs for people with Down Syndrome in North Dakota?