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North Dakota • Physical/Mobility
People in North Dakota with a spinal cord injury can qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state Medicaid and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a qualifying work history and meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. Generally, you need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and meet the SSA’s disability criteria. Both programs require medical proof that your spinal cord injury prevents you from working. SSI is for people with low income and assets, while SSDI is for those who have paid into Social Security through work taxes [6].
In North Dakota, SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid, but you must apply through your local County Social Service Office. The maximum SSI benefit in North Dakota is $967 per month in 2025. SSDI payments are based on your work record and Social Security contributions. North Dakota does not add extra state funds to SSDI, but you may qualify for Medicaid waivers or other state programs if you need long-term care. People with spinal cord injuries may also qualify for Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers if they meet financial and medical criteria [1][2][5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In North Dakota, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. You can save up to $100,000 and still get SSI. Earnings grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are tax-free. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one [internal_link: ABLE Accounts].
For SSI in North Dakota, the maximum monthly benefit is $967 in 2025. Your income and resources affect how much you get. SSDI payments depend on your work history. Both programs have rules about how much you can earn while keeping benefits. Work incentives can help you keep more of your benefits if you work. Use the SSI Income Estimator to see how your income affects your benefits [internal_link: SSI Income Estimator].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Learn how to report changes and avoid overpayments [internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Contact Community Options or your local SSA office for free help with your application and work incentives.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI pays up to $967/month in North Dakota in 2025. SSDI payments depend on your work history. Both programs require proof of disability [1][6].
Apply for SSDI or SSI through the Social Security Administration online, by phone, or in person. You must provide medical records and proof of income. If approved for SSI, apply for Medicaid through your County Social Service Office [2][6].
Yes, North Dakota offers work incentives like IRWE, PASS, and Ticket to Work. These programs help you keep benefits while working. Your payments may be reduced if you earn income, but work incentives can help you keep more of your benefits [1][3].
If you get SSI, you automatically qualify for Medicaid in North Dakota. SSDI recipients may qualify after 24 months. You must apply for Medicaid through your County Social Service Office [1][2].
Medicaid waivers let people with disabilities get long-term care services at home or in the community. If you have a spinal cord injury and need extra help, you may qualify for a waiver. Apply through your County Social Service Office [5].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
North Dakota’s Ticket to Work program helps people with disabilities find jobs and keep benefits. The program is free and voluntary. Contact Community Options or your local SSA office for more information [3].
An ABLE account lets you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $100,000 and still get SSI. Earnings grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free. Open an account through North Dakota’s ABLE program [internal_link: ABLE Accounts].
North Dakota’s average hearing wait time is about 9 months, with a 61% approval rate at hearings. The time from application to decision can vary. Having a representative can increase your chances of approval [4].
Yes, you can get help from a disability advocate, attorney, or nonprofit. The Ticket to Work program and Community Options offer free support. You can also ask for help at your local SSA office [3][4].
If your claim is denied, you can appeal. North Dakota’s average hearing wait time is about 9 months. You can get help from a representative to improve your chances of approval [4].
