People with HIV/AIDS in South Dakota may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI), Medicaid, and state-specific programs. Eligibility depends on income, resources, and medical status. This guide covers how to apply, what benefits are available, and key changes for 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 the SSA’s disability criteria and have limited income and resources. HIV/AIDS is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book under Section 14.11, so if your condition meets the listing or is equally severe, you may qualify. Both programs require that your disability is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
HIV/AIDS is considered a disability if it causes severe symptoms or complications that prevent you from working.
In South Dakota, people with HIV/AIDS may qualify for Medicaid if they receive SSI or meet income and resource limits. The state also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with long-term care needs. If you are working, South Dakota’s Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program may help you keep coverage while you earn income. The state-specific threshold for continued Medicaid under 1619(b) is $53,022 per year in 2025. This means you can earn up to that amount and still keep Medicaid, even if your SSI cash payment stops.
South Dakota also has programs for vocational rehabilitation and continued payment if you are in a rehab program. If you medically recover but are still in a rehab program, you may keep benefits until the program ends.
South Dakota Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In South Dakota, you can open an ABLE account if you became disabled before age 26. The account can be used for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and transportation. Contributions are tax-free, and earnings grow tax-free.
South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network
You must report any changes in income, resources, or medical status to SSA and DSS. If you earn more than the SGA limit, your benefits may be reduced or stopped. If you stop working, you may be eligible for expedited reinstatement of benefits within 60 months. If you receive overpayment, you may be able to request a waiver or set up a repayment plan.
Contact the South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network at 1-800-224-5336 for free help with disability benefits and Medicaid applications.
Yes, if your HIV/AIDS meets SSA’s disability criteria. You may qualify for SSDI if you have enough work credits, or SSI if you have limited income and resources. Medical records are required.
In 2025, the SSI income limit is $943/month for individuals. You can earn more if you have impairment-related work expenses or are in a work incentive program.
Yes, South Dakota’s Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program allows you to work and keep Medicaid if you meet income and resource limits. The 2025 threshold is $53,022/year.
The SGA limit for non-blind individuals is expected to be slightly above $1,470/month in 2025. For blind individuals, it’s expected to be slightly above $2,460/month.
A PASS allows you to set aside income and resources for a work goal, which may make you eligible for SSI or more SSI cash payment. It’s a work incentive for people with disabilities.
Yes, if you meet South Dakota’s income and resource limits for Medicaid. The state has programs for people with disabilities who are not on SSI.
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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If you stop getting SSDI/SSI due to work, you can request reinstatement within 60 months. You’ll get provisional benefits for 6 months while SSA makes a decision.
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. For Medicaid, apply through South Dakota’s Department of Social Services.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. You can save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
You must report any changes in income to SSA and DSS. Your benefits may be adjusted, but work incentives can help you keep some benefits.
