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South Dakota • Neurological/Developmental
People with Cerebral Palsy in South Dakota can get help through federal programs like SSDI and SSI, plus state-specific Medicaid waivers and work supports. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available in 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s criteria for disability and enough work credits. Generally, you need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability starts. Cerebral Palsy is listed as a qualifying condition if it meets the severity requirements.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 and older. You must meet Social Security’s disability criteria and have low income and assets.
Both programs require that your disability prevents you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your medical records and work history to decide if you qualify.
In South Dakota, people with Cerebral Palsy may qualify for Medicaid waivers, such as the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver, which helps pay for services like personal care, therapy, and assistive technology.
The South Dakota Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program lets people with significant disabilities work and keep Medicaid coverage, even if their income is above the usual limit.
To qualify for state programs, you must meet both federal disability criteria and South Dakota’s income and asset rules. Some programs may have waiting lists.
Children with Cerebral Palsy may qualify for early intervention services and special education supports through the state’s Department of Education.
South Dakota also offers vocational rehabilitation services to help people with disabilities prepare for and find jobs.
Contact the South Dakota Department of Social Services or your local Social Security office for help with applications and questions.
The main benefits are SSDI and SSI from Social Security, plus Medicaid waivers and vocational rehabilitation services from the state. These programs help with monthly payments, health care, and support for work and daily living.
You need a medical condition that meets Social Security’s criteria and enough work credits for SSDI, or low income and resources for SSI. Cerebral Palsy is listed as a qualifying condition if it meets the severity requirements.
Yes, South Dakota offers work incentives like the Trial Work Period and Impairment-Related Work Expenses. You can test employment without losing benefits, and the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program lets you keep coverage.
A Medicaid waiver pays for services like personal care, therapy, and assistive technology for people with Cerebral Palsy. These waivers help people live at home instead of in institutions.
Contact the South Dakota Department of Social Services to apply for Medicaid waivers. You can apply online or by phone, and you may need to provide medical and financial information.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can open an account through the South Dakota ABLE program.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.
Yes, you must report any changes in your income, work, or medical condition to Social Security and the Department of Social Services. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments.
Yes, South Dakota offers early intervention services for young children and special education services for school-aged children with Cerebral Palsy.
The federal income limit for SSI in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. South Dakota may have higher limits for Medicaid and other programs.
Yes, Medicaid waivers and vocational rehabilitation services may cover transportation and assistive devices for people with Cerebral Palsy in South Dakota.
