If you have a mobility impairment in North Dakota, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, Medicaid waivers, and assistive technology grants. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help—including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and local support programs.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a medical condition—such as a mobility impairment—that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. SSDI eligibility is based on work credits from jobs covered by Social Security. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history.[8]
In North Dakota, SSI recipients are automatically eligible for Medicaid (once you apply), and the 2025 maximum SSI payment is $967 per month[1]. State-listed work incentives—like Impairment Related Work Expenses and Blind Work Expenses—help maintain benefits if you return to work[1]. For SSDI, the amount depends on your earnings record, not a fixed state amount. The state’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews medical evidence to decide if you meet federal disability criteria[2]. If approved, your case goes back to Social Security for final eligibility decisions.
North Dakotans with mobility impairments must apply for disability benefits directly through the Social Security Administration (SSA), not the state. You can apply online, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. Gather medical records, work history, and proof of income. The SSA forwards your application to North Dakota’s DDS for a medical decision.[2]
SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Provides monthly cash assistance to low-income adults and children with disabilities, regardless of work history. SSI recipients in North Dakota also qualify for Medicaid.[1]
SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): Offers benefits based on your previous earnings and Social Security tax contributions. After receiving SSDI for 24 months, you become eligible for Medicare.[1]
Work Incentives: Both SSI and SSDI offer programs to help beneficiaries return to work without losing benefits, such as the Ticket to Work program, Trial Work Period (SSDI), and Impairment Related Work Expenses (SSI/SSDI). These incentives can help people with mobility impairments explore employment opportunities while maintaining critical supports.[1][4]
ABLE Accounts: While not state-specific, ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for certain benefits.
North Dakota Medicaid: SSI recipients in North Dakota are eligible for Medicaid but must apply separately at the county level. Medicaid can cover personal care services, durable medical equipment, and home modifications for those with mobility impairments.[1]
Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities: This program allows employed individuals with disabilities to purchase Medicaid coverage, even if their income would otherwise make them ineligible.[1]
Assistive Technology Programs: The North Dakota Assistive Financial Loan Program and Possibilities Grant offer loans (2% interest) and grants for assistive technology, vehicle modifications, and daily living aids—helpful for people with mobility impairments. These are last-resort options when insurance or other funding is unavailable.[3]
Disability Determination Services (DDS): North Dakota DDS reviews disability claims for SSA, gathering medical evidence to determine if applicants meet federal disability criteria. Only SSA can approve benefits, but DDS handles the medical review process.[2]
Ticket to Work: This free, voluntary program helps SSI/SSDI beneficiaries aged 18–64 explore employment, vocational training, and financial independence while protecting their benefits.[4]
State-Specific Waiting Times: North Dakota’s SSDI hearing wait times are slightly below the national average, with a 61% approval rate at the hearing level in 2024.[5]
ABLE accounts allow eligible individuals with disabilities to save up to $18,000 per year (2025) without affecting SSI or Medicaid. Earnings grow tax-free, and funds can pay for qualified disability expenses. North Dakota residents can open an ABLE account through any participating state program—check your options at the ABLE National Resource Center.
SSI in North Dakota has strict income and resource limits. In 2025, the maximum federal benefit is $967/month for an individual, but this amount is reduced by other income and resources. SSDI does not have an income limit for eligibility, but your benefit amount depends on your earnings history. Medicaid eligibility is tied to SSI status, but the “Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities” allows higher income limits for those who work.[1]
You must report changes in income, living situation, or resources to SSA and your county social service office to avoid overpayments. Overpayments must be repaid and can affect future benefits. Keep records of all changes and respond promptly to SSA or Medicaid notices. See our guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes.
Applying for disability benefits can be complicated. Consider getting help from a qualified advocate or representative—research shows this can triple your chances of approval.[5]
If you need adaptive equipment, home modifications, or vehicle changes, North Dakota offers loans and grants. These can cover costs that insurance won’t—check North Dakota Assistive for details.[3]
The maximum SSI payment in North Dakota is $967 per month in 2025, but your actual benefit may be less depending on your income and living situation.[1]
Yes, SSI recipients in North Dakota are eligible for Medicaid, but you must apply separately through your local county social service office.[1]
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 800-772-1213, or in person at a local SSA office. Do not apply directly to the state—SSA must receive your application first.[2]
Yes, both SSI and SSDI have work incentives that allow you to work without immediately losing benefits. Programs like Ticket to Work and Impairment Related Work Expenses can help.[1][4]
Yes, North Dakota offers low-interest loans and last-resort grants for assistive technology and home modifications through the Assistive Financial Loan Program and Possibilities Grant.[3]
The average wait for a hearing is about 9 months, slightly better than the national average. Approval rates are around 61% at the hearing level.[5]
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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Medicaid (state/federal) covers low-income individuals, including SSI recipients. Medicare (federal) covers SSDI recipients after 24 months of benefits. Some qualify for both. Visit our [Medicaid vs Medicare](/guides/medicaid-vs-medicare) guide for more.
YES—ABLE accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without impacting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Earnings grow tax-free.
You have the right to appeal. Most denials can be appealed within 60 days. Consider getting help from a qualified representative, as this can increase your chances of approval.[5]
Contact your local SSA office, North Dakota DDS, or local disability advocacy organizations for free assistance with applications, appeals, and understanding benefits.
