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South Dakota • Chronic Illness
If you have kidney disease in South Dakota, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI, plus state Medicaid programs and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is 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 kidney disease, this usually means you need dialysis or a transplant, or your condition is severe enough to stop you from working. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require that your disability meets Social Security’s criteria [^1].
SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. SSI is based on financial need. Most people with kidney disease who are unable to work for a year or more may qualify for one or both programs [^1].
In South Dakota, people with kidney disease may also qualify for Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities. This program helps those who are employed but have a significant disability, including chronic renal failure. If you are on dialysis or have had a transplant and cannot pay for your care, you may get help with medical costs. South Dakota also has Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can cover extra care for people with kidney disease [^2].
If you get SSI, you automatically qualify for Medicaid in South Dakota. If you get SSDI, you may qualify for Medicare after 24 months. Both programs can help cover the cost of dialysis, transplants, and other treatments [^2].
An ABLE account lets people with kidney disease save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for disability-related expenses like medical care, housing, and education. South Dakota residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how they work [^5].
You must report any changes in income, resources, or medical status to Social Security and Medicaid. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments, which you may have to repay. If you get provisional benefits under Expedited Reinstatement and are later found not disabled, those benefits are not considered an overpayment. Always report changes as soon as possible to avoid problems [^2].
Most disability claims are denied at first. Contact a disability attorney or advocate in South Dakota for help with your application and appeals.
Yes, if your kidney disease prevents you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. You may also qualify for Medicaid if you have limited income or are working but need help with medical costs.
The federal SSI income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual. South Dakota does not add a state supplement, so this is the total limit.
Yes, South Dakota has a Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program. If you have kidney disease and are employed, you may qualify for help with medical costs if your income is below $53,022 per year in 2025.
Gather your medical records and proof of income, then apply for SSDI or SSI through Social Security. You can also apply for South Dakota Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities if you are employed and need help with medical costs.
Work incentives include Impairment Related Work Expenses, Plan for Achieving Self-Support, and Expedited Reinstatement. These programs help you keep benefits while working or trying to return to work.
Yes, if you get SSDI, you may qualify for Medicare after 24 months. If you have limited income, you may also qualify for Medicaid. Some people get both programs.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Most claims are denied at first. You can appeal by requesting reconsideration or a hearing. It’s helpful to get legal help to improve your chances of approval.
Yes, you must report any changes to Social Security and Medicaid. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments, which you may have to repay.
Yes, an ABLE account lets you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for disability-related expenses like medical care, housing, and education.
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit in 2025 is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals. If you earn more than this, you may lose your SSDI benefits.
