If you have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in South Dakota, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state Medicaid programs and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, state-specific supports, and managing your benefits.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid into Social Security, and your COPD must be severe enough to prevent work for at least 12 months or result in death[5]. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, and also requires a qualifying disability[3]. For both, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will review medical evidence, work history, and other factors to decide if you meet their definition of disability[3][5]. SSDI requires sufficient work credits based on age, while SSI does not—but you must meet strict income and asset limits[3][5]. For Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits, a person 18 or older with a disability that began before age 22 can receive benefits based on a parent’s record, even if they never worked[5].
South Dakota’s Medicaid program covers people with chronic illnesses, including those who are employed and have significant disabilities, through the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program[4]. If you are currently or formerly receiving SSI, you may automatically qualify for Medicaid[4]. The state’s Medicaid waivers (HCBS) offer additional home and community-based services, though COPD-specific waivers are limited and eligibility varies by program and need[4]. South Dakota does not have a separate, state-sponsored disability cash benefit for adults—residents rely on federal SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid[3]. For those working despite a disability, South Dakota’s threshold for Continued Medicaid Coverage under Section 1619(b) is $53,022 per year in 2025[2]. State-specific work incentives and deduction rules may help you keep Medicaid and SSI/SSDI while earning income[2].
Start by confirming your COPD diagnosis with a doctor and gather your medical records. Decide whether to apply for SSDI (if you have enough work credits) or SSI (if you have low income/resources)[3][5]. Apply online at the SSA website, by phone, or in person at a local office. Call South Dakota Medicaid at 1-877-999-5612 to ask about waivers and coverage if your application is approved[4].
Step 1: Gather Documentation
Collect medical records, proof of income, work history, and a list of medications. Ask your doctor to provide a statement explaining how COPD limits your activities and ability to work.
Step 2: Choose Your Program
Step 3: Complete the Application
Answer all questions honestly and submit all required documents. If you need help, contact a South Dakota Benefits Specialist at 1-800-224-5336[2].
Step 4: Wait for a Decision
The SSA may contact you for more information or a medical exam. If denied, you can appeal.
Step 5: Apply for Medicaid
If approved for SSI, you may qualify for Medicaid automatically[4]. Otherwise, or if you need additional services, apply directly to South Dakota’s Department of Social Services by calling 1-877-999-5612[4]. Ask about home and community-based waivers (HCBS) for extra support[4].
Step 6: Explore Work Incentives
If you can work part-time, review work incentive programs like Impairment Related Work Expenses and Plan for Achieving Self-Support to maximize your benefits and eligibility while earning income[2].
SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)
SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
Disabled Adult Child (DAC) Benefits
Medicaid
Work Incentives
South Dakota Medicaid
Income and Work Incentives
ABLE Accounts let you save money for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. While South Dakota does not currently offer its own ABLE program, you can open an account through another state’s plan. See our <a href="/guides/able-accounts">ABLE Accounts</a> guide for details on enrollment and use.
SSI: Strict income and resource limits apply. In 2025, you can keep Medicaid if your earnings are below $53,022 per year through Continued Medicaid Coverage under Section 1619(b)[2]. Individual limits may vary based on deductions and your state’s rules.
SSDI: No strict income limit, but you must not be engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). In 2025, SGA is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals[1]. If you earn above these amounts, benefits may be suspended.
DAC Benefits: Earnings over $1,620/month (or $2,700 if blind) in 2025 may affect eligibility[5].
If you earn too much or your condition improves, you must report changes to avoid overpayments, which you may have to repay. The SSA can reinstate benefits quickly if you lose them due to work, thanks to Expedited Reinstatement[2]. South Dakota’s Benefits Specialist Network can help you understand reporting requirements and avoid common mistakes[2]. See our <a href="/guides/overpayments-and-reporting">Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes</a> guide for step-by-step instructions.
If you need personal support, call the South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network at 1-800-224-5336. They can help with SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid applications, and explain your work and reporting options[2].
If you are employed but still have significant COPD-related limitations, you may qualify for South Dakota’s Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities and keep more of your income with special work incentives[2][4].
Yes, if your COPD is severe enough to prevent work for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI (with enough work credits) or SSI (if you have limited income and resources). South Dakota Medicaid may also cover you if you meet eligibility requirements[3][4][5].
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid into Social Security; SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both require a qualifying disability, but the application process and income limits differ. See our <a href="/guides/ssi-ssdi">SSI vs SSDI</a> guide for details[3].
For SSDI, earning over $1,620/month in 2025 may affect eligibility. For SSI, strict income and asset limits apply, but work incentives may let you earn more. If you are working, the state’s Medicaid coverage can continue up to $53,022/year in 2025[1][2].
Yes, work incentive programs allow you to earn income without immediately losing SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid, as long as you follow the rules and report your earnings. South Dakota offers special deductions and supports for workers with disabilities[2].
Yes, Medicaid covers people with chronic illnesses, including COPD, especially if you receive SSI or have low income. South Dakota has a Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program and offers waivers for additional services in some cases[4].
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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No State Disability Cash Benefit
Resources and Support
South Dakota offers Medicaid waivers (HCBS) for home and community-based services, but there is no COPD-specific waiver. Waiver eligibility depends on your needs and available services[4].
You can appeal the decision. Contact the South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network for help with your appeal and to ensure you have all needed documentation[2].
You must report changes in your work, income, or health to the SSA. Failing to do so can result in overpayments. The South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network can help you understand the process[2].
Yes, through an ABLE account, you can save for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid. While South Dakota does not have its own ABLE plan, you can join another state’s program.
Contact the South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network at 1-800-224-5336 for personalized help with SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and work incentives[2]. The SSA website and local office also provide application support[3][5].
