If you have low vision in South Dakota, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available in 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with low vision, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means your vision loss must be severe enough to prevent you from doing your previous work and adjusting to other work, and it must last at least one year or result in death. For SSDI, you need enough work credits from recent employment. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. Both programs require a medical review to confirm your disability status.
If you are blind or have low vision, special work incentives may apply, such as deducting impairment-related work expenses from your earnings when determining SGA status.
South Dakota does not have a separate state disability program, but residents with low vision can access several state and federal benefits. If you receive SSI, you automatically qualify for Medicaid in South Dakota. The state also offers the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program, which allows individuals with significant disabilities to work and still receive Medicaid coverage.
South Dakota’s Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program is designed for those who are employed and have a significant disability, including low vision. This program helps cover medical costs and supports employment. To qualify, you must be a South Dakota resident, have a significant disability, and meet income and asset requirements. The program allows you to keep Medicaid even if your income is above the standard SSI limit, up to a state-specific threshold.
Source: South Dakota Department of Social Services, 2025
South Dakota also participates in federal work incentives, such as the Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS), which lets you set aside income and resources for a work goal without losing SSI benefits.
Source: SSA.gov, 2025 Source: South Dakota Department of Social Services, 2025
Source: South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network, 2025 Source: South Dakota Department of Social Services, 2025
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In South Dakota, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) and the account grows tax-free. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, transportation, and assistive technology.
Source: ABLE National Resource Center, 2025
Source: South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network, 2025
You must report changes in income, resources, living situation, or medical condition to SSA and the Department of Social Services. Failure to report can result in overpayments and penalties. If you receive an overpayment, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan. Reporting changes helps ensure you receive the correct amount of benefits.
Contact the South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network at 1-800-224-5336 for free help with disability benefits applications and questions.
Yes, you can work and still receive SSI or SSDI if your earnings are below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Special work incentives may allow you to earn more.
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. You’ll need medical records and work history. If approved for SSI, you’ll automatically be enrolled in Medicaid.
This program allows individuals with significant disabilities, including low vision, to work and still receive Medicaid coverage. The income threshold for 2025 is $53,022 per year. It helps cover medical costs and supports employment.
Yes, you can save money in an ABLE account without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) and use funds for qualified disability expenses.
You must report changes in income to SSA and the Department of Social Services. Failure to report can result in overpayments and penalties. Reporting changes helps ensure you receive the correct amount of benefits.
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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No, you do not need to be completely blind. Low vision that meets SSA’s disability criteria may qualify you for SSDI or SSI. The severity of your vision loss must prevent substantial work.
The application process can take several months. SSA reviews your medical records and work history. If approved, SSDI has a 5-month waiting period before payments start.
Yes, you may qualify for Medicaid through the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program if you have a significant disability and meet income and asset requirements.
A PASS lets you set aside income and resources for a work goal, such as training or equipment, without losing SSI benefits. It helps you prepare for employment.
If your benefits are denied, you can appeal the decision. You have 60 days to file an appeal. You may also request expedited reinstatement if you lose benefits due to work.
