People who are Deaf in South Dakota can get help through federal programs like SSI and SSDI, and state programs such as Medicaid waivers. These benefits provide monthly payments, health coverage, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key changes for 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability, including Deafness. You must also have enough work credits, usually 40, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must meet SSA’s disability criteria and have limited income and resources. Deafness is considered a disability if it prevents you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least one year or result in death[1].
SSA uses the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit to decide if your earnings are too high for benefits. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals[2]. If your earnings are below these amounts, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI.
In South Dakota, Deaf individuals may qualify for Medicaid waivers, such as the HCBS waiver, which provides services for people with disabilities who want to live in the community. To qualify, you must meet SSA’s disability criteria and have limited income and resources. South Dakota also offers the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program, which helps people with disabilities keep Medicaid while working. Eligibility for this program depends on your income and disability status. The state-specific threshold for continued Medicaid coverage under 1619(b) is $53,022 per year in 2025[3].
South Dakota does not have a separate state disability program, so most benefits come from federal programs. However, the state may offer additional support through vocational rehabilitation and work incentive programs for Deaf individuals.
ABLE accounts let Deaf individuals save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $17,000 per year in 2025, and the first $100,000 is not counted for SSI eligibility[7]. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other disability-related expenses.
Report any changes in income, employment, or living situation to SSA and the South Dakota Department of Social Services. Failure to report can result in overpayments and loss of benefits. If you receive an overpayment, contact SSA or the state agency to set up a repayment plan[6].
In 2025, SSDI and SSI benefits increase by 2.5% due to COLA. The SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind and $2,700/month for blind individuals. Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities threshold is $53,022/year.
Yes, Deafness can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it meets SSA’s disability criteria. You must show that your Deafness prevents you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least one year or result in death[1].
For SSDI, earnings must be below SGA ($1,620/month non-blind, $2,700/month blind in 2025). For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. The federal SSI payment is $943/month for individuals in 2025[1][2].
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. For Medicaid, apply through the South Dakota Department of Social Services[4][5].
Work incentives include continued Medicaid coverage while working, vocational rehabilitation services, and ABLE accounts for saving without losing benefits[3][7][8].
Yes, South Dakota’s Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program allows you to keep Medicaid while working, with a 2025 income threshold of $53,022 per year[3].
The SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 per month for blind individuals in 2025. If your earnings are below these amounts, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI[2].
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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Report any changes in income, employment, or living situation to SSA and the South Dakota Department of Social Services. Failure to report can result in overpayments and loss of benefits[6].
An ABLE account lets you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $17,000 per year in 2025, and the first $100,000 is not counted for SSI eligibility[7].
South Dakota offers Medicaid waivers, vocational rehabilitation, and ABLE accounts for Deaf individuals. These programs help with health coverage, job training, and saving for disability-related expenses[5][7][8].
The approval process can take several months. SSA reviews your application, medical records, and work history. You may be asked to attend a medical exam or provide more information[4].
