North Dakotans with Low Vision can access federal benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicare, and ABLE accounts, as well as state Medicaid and local support programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help—including financial aid for prescriptions, adaptive equipment, and transportation.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) with Low Vision, you must meet Social Security’s definition of disability, which includes significant vision loss that cannot be corrected with glasses or contacts and interferes with your ability to work. SSI is based on limited income/resources; SSDI requires enough work credits[6]. Both programs have strict medical and non-medical rules, and benefits may be reduced if you work. Special work incentives, such as the Ticket to Work program, help you test employment without losing all benefits[4].
In North Dakota, the maximum SSI payment in 2025 is $967 per month for eligible individuals[1]. SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid but must apply separately through their local County Social Service Office[1]. The North Dakota Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews medical evidence for disability claims, but the SSA makes final eligibility decisions[2]. State-specific supports include prescription assistance, medical equipment, home modifications, and travel help through nonprofits like the North Dakota Association for the Disabled (NDAD)[3]. Most programs require documentation of your disability and may have income or resource limits.
Start your application online, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. Gather your medical records, proof of income, and ID. North Dakotans must apply for SSI or SSDI directly through the SSA—not the state DDS[2]. After applying, DDS will review your medical evidence. If approved, you’ll get details about your benefits and next steps for Medicaid. For local help, contact NDAD or your county social services office.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility Review federal and state rules for SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid. Low Vision must significantly limit daily activities and work capacity.
Step 2: Gather Documents Collect medical records, eye exam results, proof of income, resources, and identification.
Step 3: Apply for Benefits
Step 4: Submit to SSA Your application is sent to North Dakota DDS for medical review. Only SSA decides eligibility[2].
Step 5: Follow Up Check your application status online or by phone. Respond quickly to any SSA or DDS requests.
Step 6: Apply for Medicaid If approved for SSI, contact your county social services office to apply for Medicaid[1].
Step 7: Explore Local Programs Contact NDAD for help with prescriptions, equipment, or home modifications[3]. Check with your county for additional supports.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides monthly payments to low-income individuals with disabilities, including those with Low Vision. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) offers benefits to those who’ve worked and paid Social Security taxes. Medicare covers people who receive SSDI after a waiting period. ABLE accounts allow tax-advantaged savings for disability expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Ticket to Work helps beneficiaries explore employment while keeping benefits[4].
North Dakota Medicaid covers SSI recipients, but you must apply separately at your county office[1]. The North Dakota Association for the Disabled (NDAD) offers financial assistance for prescriptions, medical equipment, home accessibility modifications, medical travel, personal care, and transportation—some programs have age or income restrictions[3]. The Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews medical evidence for SSA disability claims but does not decide eligibility[2]. For employment support, Community Options manages the Ticket to Work program, helping beneficiaries find jobs and use work incentives[4]. The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services provides training and resources for independent living[5]. State-specific waivers and home- and community-based services (HCBS) may be available; check with your county for details.
ABLE accounts let North Dakotans with Low Vision save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Earnings grow tax-free, and you can use the money for education, housing, transportation, health, and more. Learn more about how ABLE accounts work and how to open one in our <a href="/guides/able-accounts">ABLE Accounts</a> guide.
SSI has strict income and resource limits—in 2025, the maximum federal benefit in North Dakota is $967/month for an individual[1]. Income from work or other sources may reduce your SSI payment. SSDI payments depend on your work history and earnings. Medicaid eligibility for SSI recipients is automatic, but you must apply through your county[1].
Always report changes in income, living situation, or resources to SSA to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much, you may have to pay it back. Our <a href="/guides/overpayments-and-reporting">Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes</a> guide explains your responsibilities and how to dispute errors.
You can try working without immediately losing all your benefits. Programs like Ticket to Work and special income exclusions help you keep some income and health coverage while you build skills and independence[4].
The North Dakota Association for the Disabled (NDAD) may help with the cost of prescriptions, glasses, medical equipment, and home modifications if you meet their guidelines[3]. Contact them directly to see if you qualify.
SSI is for low-income individuals with limited resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both require that your Low Vision meets federal disability standards. SSI also qualifies you for Medicaid in North Dakota, but you must apply separately[1].
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), or in person at a local SSA office. Do not send applications to the state DDS—SSA handles eligibility[2].
Yes, both programs have work incentives. You can try working without losing all benefits immediately. Programs like Ticket to Work and special exclusions help you keep some income and health coverage[4].
North Dakota Medicaid covers SSI recipients. NDAD offers financial help for prescriptions, equipment, home modifications, and travel. Contact your county social services or NDAD for details[1][3].
Yes, SSI has strict income and resource limits. Earnings from work or other sources may reduce your benefit. Use the <a href="/tools/ssi-income-estimator">SSI Income Estimator</a> to see how work affects your payment.
ABLE accounts let you save for disability expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid. Funds can pay for education, housing, transportation, and more. See our <a href="/guides/able-accounts">ABLE Accounts</a> guide for details.
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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Contact the North Dakota Association for the Disabled (NDAD). They offer financial assistance for prescriptions, medical equipment, and home modifications, depending on your situation[3].
You have the right to appeal. Follow SSA’s instructions to request reconsideration, a hearing, or further review. Keep copies of all paperwork and deadlines.
State-specific waivers and home- and community-based services may be available. Contact your county social services office or visit the ND Department of Health and Human Services for current options[5].
The Ticket to Work program, managed by Community Options, helps SSI and SSDI recipients find jobs and use work incentives[4]. Contact them or your local vocational rehab office for support.
