Families in North Dakota with Rett Syndrome may qualify for federal disability benefits, including SSI and SSDI, as well as state Medicaid and local assistance. This guide provides step-by-step eligibility, application, and contact details to help maximize support.
To qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) with Rett Syndrome, you must meet Social Security’s definition of disability, which requires a medical condition that severely limits daily activities and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. For SSI, eligibility is also based on financial need, while SSDI requires a work history and sufficient Social Security tax credits. Families with children under 18 may apply for SSI, which is not based on parental income and resources for all conditions (check with SSA for details). For SSDI, adults must generally have earned 40 credits, 20 in the last 10 years before becoming disabled[1][6].
North Dakota follows federal guidelines for disability determination, with local Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviewing medical evidence and making recommendations to Social Security. If you qualify for SSI in North Dakota, you are also eligible for Medicaid, but you must apply separately through your county social service office. In 2025, the maximum SSI benefit is $967 per month, but this amount may be reduced by other income. North Dakota also offers state programs for medical equipment, accessibility modifications, prescription assistance, and travel for medical care through organizations like NDAD, though funding and eligibility may vary. These programs can help with costs not covered by federal benefits, but you must meet their specific guidelines[1][3].
To apply for SSI or SSDI, visit the Social Security Administration (SSA) website, call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), or visit your local SSA office. Gather medical records, work history (for SSDI), and financial information (for SSI). For Medicaid, apply at your county social service office after SSI approval. For state and local aid, contact North Dakota Association for the Disabled (NDAD) or Community Options, Inc.[2][3]
Step 1: Gather Documentation – Collect medical records, school records (for children), and proof of income and resources (for SSI). For SSDI, have work history and tax documents ready.
Step 2: Apply Online, by Phone, or In Person – Begin your SSI or SSDI application at the SSA website, by phone, or at a local SSA office. Do not submit directly to DDS—SSA manages the process[2].
Step 3: Medical Review – North Dakota DDS will review your medical evidence. They may request additional exams if records are incomplete. DDS makes the disability determination for SSA[2].
Step 4: Wait for Decision – SSA will notify you of your eligibility and benefit amount. For SSI, your monthly payment may be adjusted based on income and resources.
Step 5: Apply for Medicaid – If approved for SSI, apply for Medicaid at your county social service office. Approval is not automatic—you must complete a separate application[1].
Step 6: Explore State and Local Resources – Contact NDAD for help with prescriptions, medical equipment, accessibility, and recreational activities. For work incentives or Ticket to Work programs, reach out to Community Options, Inc.[3][4]
SSI provides monthly payments to people with disabilities, including children, based on financial need. SSDI offers benefits to adults with a qualifying work history. Both programs have work incentive options to help keep benefits while attempting employment–see our <a href='/guides/work-incentives'>SSI & SSDI Work Incentives</a> guide. Children with disabilities may qualify for SSI regardless of parental income in certain cases. Medicare is available after receiving SSDI for 24 months; Medicaid may be available through SSI or state waivers. ABLE accounts let you save for disability expenses without affecting eligibility[1][6].
North Dakota offers Medicaid to SSI recipients—apply separately after approval. The North Dakota Association for the Disabled (NDAD) provides grants for prescriptions, medical equipment, accessibility modifications, and recreational activities (eligibility and funding limits apply). NDAD also helps with travel costs for medical care and personal attendant services. The Ticket to Work program, available through Community Options, Inc., supports people with disabilities seeking employment while keeping benefits. For durable medical equipment or home modifications, NDAD may offer direct assistance, but not all requests can be fulfilled[3][4].
North Dakota does not have a unique Medicaid waiver specifically for rare genetic disorders like Rett Syndrome, but Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers may be available for those needing long-term supports. Check with the Department of Health and Human Services for current waiver options[5]. State programs are supplemental and subject to funding; always apply to federal benefits first.
ABLE accounts are savings accounts for people with disabilities that allow you to save up to $100,000 without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Earnings grow tax-free and withdrawals are tax-free for qualified disability expenses. Learn more on our <a href='/guides/able-accounts'>ABLE Accounts</a> page.
SSI eligibility depends on income and resources—2025’s maximum federal benefit is $967/month, but this may be reduced if you have other income. North Dakota follows federal guidelines, so limits are the same nationally. SSDI does not have income limits for eligibility, but you must not earn above Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) after benefits begin (however, you will still qualify for Medicare)[1].
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to repay the overpayment. Always report changes in income, living situation, or condition to SSA and your county Medicaid office—see our guide on <a href='guides/overpayments-and-reporting'>Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes</a>. Keeping accurate records and reporting promptly can avoid penalties.
North Dakota Association for the Disabled (NDAD) offers direct support for medical equipment, prescriptions, travel, and more. Funding is limited—contact them early if you need help[3].
SSI and SSDI have special rules that let you work and keep health coverage and some benefits. Contact Community Options for help with the Ticket to Work program[4].
There is no North Dakota waiver just for Rett Syndrome, but HCBS waivers may be available. Ask your county or North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services about current options for long-term supports[5].
Yes, if your or your child’s symptoms meet Social Security’s disability criteria for severity and duration. Medical documentation is required. Children can often qualify for SSI based on disability alone, regardless of parental income for certain conditions[6].
The maximum SSI benefit is $967 per month, but this amount may be reduced based on other income or living arrangements. This is the same as the federal rate—North Dakota does not supplement the federal SSI benefit[1].
You must submit a separate application to your county social service office. Approval for SSI does not automatically enroll you in Medicaid, but eligibility is generally the same[1].
Yes, NDAD offers assistance for durable medical equipment, accessibility modifications, prescriptions, and travel for medical care. Funding is limited and based on NDAD guidelines and availability[3].
Yes, SSI and SSDI both have work incentive programs that allow you to explore employment while keeping health coverage and some benefits. Contact Community Options, Inc., for help with Ticket to Work and employment support[4].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those with a qualifying work record and sufficient Social Security credits. See our <a href='/guides/ssi-ssdi'>SSI vs SSDI</a> page 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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North Dakota does not have a waiver specific to Rett Syndrome, but children may qualify for HCBS waivers if they need long-term supports. Contact the Department of Health and Human Services for current options[5].
This free, voluntary program helps SSI and SSDI recipients aged 18–64 find employment, keep benefits, and gain work experience. Services include career counseling and vocational support[4].
Yes, through an ABLE account. You can save for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid, up to $100,000[1].
The Disability Determination Services (DDS) in North Dakota reviews your medical evidence and makes a recommendation to Social Security, which issues the final decision on eligibility[2].
