People in North Dakota with a traumatic brain injury may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state Medicaid and support programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what resources are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, your traumatic brain injury must be severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough Social Security credits (usually 40, with 20 earned in the last 10 years). For SSI, your income and resources must be low. Both programs require medical proof of your disability from doctors or hospitals. The Social Security Administration (SSA) makes the final decision on eligibility based on federal rules.
Medical evidence must show your traumatic brain injury limits your ability to work and do daily activities.
Learn more about federal eligibility [accessed 2025-11-06].
In North Dakota, people with traumatic brain injury who qualify for SSI receive up to $967 per month in 2025. SSI recipients also qualify for Medicaid, but must apply separately at their local County Social Service Office. North Dakota does not have a separate state disability program for traumatic brain injury, but residents can access Medicaid waivers and support services through the Department of Human Services. Work incentives like the Ticket to Work program help you keep benefits while working. The state’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews your medical records and makes the disability decision for SSA.
Learn more about North Dakota SSI [accessed 2025-11-06].
Start your application at ssa.gov/benefits/disability [accessed 2025-11-06].
Apply for disability benefits [accessed 2025-11-06]. Contact North Dakota DDS [accessed 2025-11-06].
Learn more about federal programs [accessed 2025-11-06].
North Dakota offers Medicaid to SSI recipients, but you must apply at your local County Social Service Office. The state does not have a separate disability benefit for traumatic brain injury, but residents can access Medicaid waivers and support services through the Department of Human Services. The Ticket to Work program is available for people aged 18–64 who receive SSI or SSDI. Work incentives like the State Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities help you keep health coverage while working. North Dakota’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews medical evidence for SSA.
Learn more about North Dakota programs [accessed 2025-11-06].
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. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses like education, housing, and transportation. ABLE accounts do not affect SSI or Medicaid eligibility as long as the balance is under $100,000.
Learn more about ABLE accounts [accessed 2025-11-06].
For SSI in North Dakota, the maximum monthly benefit is $967 in 2025. SSI is income-based, so any earned or unearned income will reduce your benefit. SSDI payments depend on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. Medicaid eligibility is based on income and resources, but SSI recipients automatically qualify.
Learn more about SSI income limits [accessed 2025-11-06].
You must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security to avoid overpayments. If you earn money while on SSI or SSDI, your benefits may be reduced. Work incentives like IRWE and PASS can help you keep more of your benefits. Always report changes promptly to avoid repayment.
Learn more about reporting changes [accessed 2025-11-06].
Contact North Dakota Disability Determination Services or a local nonprofit for free help with your application.
Yes, if your traumatic brain injury is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must apply through Social Security and provide medical evidence.
In 2025, the maximum SSI benefit in North Dakota is $967 per month. Your actual payment may be less if you have other income or resources.
Yes, SSI recipients in North Dakota qualify for Medicaid, but you must apply separately at your local County Social Service Office.
Apply online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. Social Security will send your application to North Dakota Disability Determination Services for medical review.
North Dakota offers work incentives like the Ticket to Work program, Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWE), and the State Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities.
Yes, work incentives help you keep benefits while working. Programs like IRWE, PASS, and the Ticket to Work program support your employment goals.
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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The average wait time for a hearing in North Dakota is about 9 months. The approval rate is about 61%, which is slightly above the national average.
You do not need a lawyer, but having a representative can increase your chances of approval. Many advocates offer free services.
You need medical records from doctors, hospitals, or therapists that show your traumatic brain injury limits your ability to work and do daily activities.
Yes, you can get help from Social Security, Disability Determination Services, or nonprofit organizations like Community Options.
