If you have depression in South Dakota, you may qualify for federal disability programs like SSI and SSDI, as well as state-specific Medicaid and work incentives. 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 prevents you from working for at least 12 months and have enough work credits. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must meet SSA’s disability criteria and have limited income and resources. Depression can qualify if it severely limits your ability to work and meet SSA’s medical listing for mental disorders. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals. Exceeding these limits may affect your benefits unless you use work incentives [1].
SSDI requires at least 20 work credits in the last 10 years for most adults, but the exact number depends on your age. SSI is based on financial need and does not require work credits [3].
South Dakota does not have a separate state disability program, but residents can access federal SSI and SSDI. South Dakota Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities allows people with significant disabilities to work and keep Medicaid coverage. If you receive SSI, you may also qualify for Medicaid automatically. South Dakota also offers Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waivers for those who need long-term support. These waivers can help pay for services that allow you to live in the community instead of an institution [5].
If you are working and your earnings exceed the SGA limit, you may still keep Medicaid under the 1619(b) provision if your income is below $53,022 per year in 2025. This is important for those with depression who want to return to work but need ongoing health coverage [2].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. In South Dakota, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s program. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation. The account does not count toward SSI resource limits [4].
You must report changes in income, work, or medical status to SSA. Failing to report can result in overpayments and penalties. If you receive an overpayment, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan. Use the SSA online portal or call your local office to report changes [4].
Contact the South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network at 1-800-224-5336 for free help with disability benefits applications and questions.
Yes, depression can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it meets SSA’s medical criteria and prevents you from working for at least 12 months. You must provide medical evidence and meet financial requirements for SSI [3].
In 2025, the SSI federal benefit rate is $943/month for individuals. Most unearned income counts toward the limit. If you work, you can earn some money, but it may reduce your SSI payment [2].
The SGA limit in 2025 is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals. Earnings above this may affect your SSDI or SSI benefits unless you use work incentives [1].
Yes, you can work and keep benefits using work incentives like Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS), Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWE), and 1619(b) Medicaid continuation. These programs help you return to work without losing health coverage or cash benefits [2].
Yes, you must report changes in income, work, or medical status to SSA. Failing to report can result in overpayments and penalties. Use the SSA online portal or call your local office to report changes [4].
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need medical records and work history. The online application is the fastest method [3].
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Join thousands of families who trust Purple to protect their benefits
Purple is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by OMB Bank, Member FDIC.
If denied, you can appeal within 60 days. The appeals process includes reconsideration, a hearing, and review by the Appeals Council. You may need to provide more medical evidence or attend a consultative exam [3].
Yes, South Dakota offers Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities. If your income is below $53,022/year in 2025, you can keep Medicaid even if your SSI cash payment stops due to work [2].
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses and do not count toward SSI resource limits. You can open an account through the state’s program [4].
Yes, blind individuals have higher SGA limits ($2,700/month in 2025) and can deduct blind work expenses from earnings. These rules help blind people with depression work without losing benefits [4].
