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South Dakota • Physical/Mobility
South Dakota residents with Multiple Sclerosis can access federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, plus state programs for Medicaid, employment support, and more. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
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 enough work credits. For SSDI, you generally need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. 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 [1].
For 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above this amount may affect your benefits [2].
In South Dakota, eligibility for SSDI and SSI is determined by the state’s Disability Determination Services (DDS), part of the Department of Human Services. About 25% of South Dakota’s population has a disability, but only about 4% receive SSDI. Most qualifying conditions are mobility or cognition-related, including Multiple Sclerosis [3].
South Dakota also offers Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities, which helps people with significant disabilities remain employed. Veterans may access additional benefits through the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, including compensation, pensions, and healthcare [3].
State-specific Medicaid waivers and home and community-based services (HCBS) are available for those who meet criteria for long-term care needs [4].
South Dakota offers ABLE accounts, which allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, including housing, education, and transportation. Learn more about ABLE accounts and eligibility at the official ABLE website [7].
For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above this amount may affect your SSDI or SSI benefits. The threshold for continued Medicaid coverage under 1619(b) is $53,022 per year in South Dakota [3][5].
It’s important to report any changes in your income, work status, or medical condition to the Social Security Administration and South Dakota DDS. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes in the official SSA guide [8].
Contact the Helpline Center at 211 or visit their website for free assistance with disability benefits applications in South Dakota.
South Dakota veterans with Multiple Sclerosis may qualify for extra benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Contact them for details.
The main benefits are SSDI and SSI, which provide monthly payments for those unable to work due to Multiple Sclerosis. South Dakota also offers Medicaid, HCBS waivers, and support for veterans.
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You’ll need medical records, work history, and other documentation. South Dakota’s DDS handles eligibility decisions.
For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above this amount may affect your benefits.
Yes, you can work, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. South Dakota also offers Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities and work incentives to help you remain employed.
The threshold for continued Medicaid coverage under 1619(b) is $53,022 per year in South Dakota. If your earnings are below this, you may keep Medicaid even if your SSI cash payment stops.
Yes, the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs offers compensation, pensions, healthcare, and other services for disabled veterans, including those with Multiple Sclerosis.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult official sources or a benefits counselor for personalized advice.
You can contact South Dakota Disability Determination Services (DDS) or the Helpline Center for assistance with the application process and eligibility questions.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. It allows you to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid.
If your condition improves, you may lose SSDI or SSI benefits. However, there are work incentives and vocational rehabilitation programs that can help you transition back to work.
You must report changes in your income, work status, or medical condition to the Social Security Administration and South Dakota DDS to avoid overpayments and penalties.
