If you are Hard of Hearing in South Dakota, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state-specific programs 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 meets the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability and have enough work credits. SSDI is for people who cannot work due to a long-term or permanent disability and have paid Social Security taxes. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must meet SSA’s disability criteria and have limited income and resources. Both programs require that your disability prevents you from doing previous work and adjusting to other work, and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. The SSA uses a strict definition of disability, and hearing loss must be severe enough to meet their criteria.
Citations: SSA Disability Qualification (2025-11-06), Helpline Center Disability Benefits (2025-11-06).
In South Dakota, Hard of Hearing individuals may qualify for state-specific programs like Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities and Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waivers. The Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program is for those who are employed and have a significant disability, allowing them to return to work or remain working. HCBS waivers provide services for those who need long-term care but want to live in the community. To qualify for these programs, you must meet federal disability criteria and have a significant disability. South Dakota also offers vocational rehabilitation services and work incentives to help you test employment without losing benefits. These programs can provide additional support for those who are Hard of Hearing and want to work or need extra services.
Citations: South Dakota Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (2025-11-06), South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network (2025-11-06).
Citations: SSA How to Apply (2025-11-06), South Dakota Department of Social Services (2025-11-06), South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network (2025-11-06).
Citations: SSA Disability Programs (2025-11-06), Helpline Center Disability Benefits (2025-11-06).
Citations: South Dakota Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (2025-11-06), South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network (2025-11-06), South Dakota ABLE Accounts (2025-11-06).
South Dakota ABLE accounts let you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) and the account grows tax-free. Funds can be used for things like assistive devices, education, housing, and transportation. To open an account, visit the South Dakota ABLE website or call 1-800-224-5336.
Citations: South Dakota ABLE Accounts (2025-11-06).
Citations: South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network (2025-11-06), South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network (2025-11-06).
You must report changes in income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. If you earn more than the SGA limit, your benefits may be reduced or stopped. If you move, change jobs, or your health improves, report it to the SSA. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you receive an overpayment, you may have to repay it, but you can ask for a waiver if it was not your fault. For more information, see the SSA’s guide on reporting changes.
Citations: SSA Reporting Changes (2025-11-06).
Contact the South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network at 1-800-224-5336 for free help with disability benefits and work incentives.
SSDI is for people with enough work credits and a qualifying disability. SSI is for those with limited income and resources and a qualifying disability. Both provide monthly payments, but eligibility and payment amounts differ.
Yes, you can work and receive SSDI or SSI. There are work incentives like the Trial Work Period and Impairment-Related Work Expenses that let you test employment without losing benefits.
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for disabled individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning more than this may affect your benefits.
In 2025, the federal SSI limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Some income is not counted, like the first $20 of most income and some work expenses.
This program provides health coverage for employed individuals with significant disabilities in South Dakota. It allows you to work and keep Medicaid.
HCBS waivers provide services for those needing long-term care but wanting to live in the community. Services include personal care, therapy, and more.
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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An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for disability-related expenses. You can save up to $17,000 per year without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
You can apply online at SSA.gov, in person at a local Social Security office, or by phone. You will need medical records, proof of income, and work history.
If your benefits are denied, you can appeal. The SSA website has information on the appeals process. You can also get help from a disability advocate.
You must report changes in income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you receive an overpayment, you may have to repay it.
