Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Benefits in South Dakota

To qualify for federal disability benefits in South Dakota, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a qualifying medical condition and enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years)[^1]. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and meet SSA’s disability criteria[^2]. Myalgic Encephalomyelitis is considered a chronic illness and may qualify if it severely limits your ability to work and is expected to last at least one year or result in death[^3].

In South Dakota, people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis may also qualify for state-specific programs. The South Dakota Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program helps those who are employed but have a significant disability. Eligibility is based on income, disability status, and employment. South Dakota also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can provide additional support for those with chronic illnesses[^4]. State-specific thresholds for Medicaid continuation under 1619(b) are set annually; for 2025, the threshold is $53,022 per year[^5].

• Gather medical records and proof of income.
• Review eligibility for SSI, SSDI, and state programs.
• Apply online at SSA.gov or in person at a local Social Security office.
• For Medicaid, apply through the South Dakota Department of Social Services.
• Consider work incentives if you plan to work while receiving benefits.

• Step 1: Collect all medical documentation related to Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, including doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment history.
• Step 2: Review your income and resources to determine if you qualify for SSI or SSDI.
• Step 3: Apply for federal benefits online at SSA.gov or visit your local Social Security office. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 for help.
• Step 4: For Medicaid, apply through the South Dakota Department of Social Services. You can apply online or by phone.
• Step 5: If you are working or plan to work, ask about work incentives like Impairment Related Work Expenses and the Plan for Achieving Self-Support.
• Step 6: Report any changes in income, resources, or medical status to avoid overpayments.
• Step 7: If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision within 60 days[^6].

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments for those who have paid Social Security taxes and meet disability criteria.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Needs-based payments for those with limited income and resources.
• Medicare: Available after 24 months of SSDI (exceptions for ALS and end-stage renal disease).
• Medicaid: Available for those who qualify for SSI or meet state criteria.
• Work Incentives: Programs like Impairment Related Work Expenses, Plan for Achieving Self-Support, and Expedited Reinstatement help people work while keeping benefits[^7].

• South Dakota Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities: For employed individuals with a significant disability. Covers medical costs and supports employment.
• Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Provides home and community-based services for those with chronic illnesses.
• ABLE Accounts: Tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities.
• State-Specific Work Incentives: Includes property essential to self-support, blind work expenses, and continued Medicaid coverage under 1619(b) if earnings are below the state threshold[^8].

ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. In South Dakota, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Contributions are tax-free, and funds can be used for qualified disability expenses[^9].

For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual. South Dakota does not have a state supplement. For Medicaid, the income limit varies by program; for the Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program, it is based on the state’s threshold, which is $53,022 per year for 2025[^10].

It is important to report any changes in income, resources, or medical status to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to repay the excess. Reporting changes promptly can help prevent overpayments and ensure you receive the correct amount of benefits[^11].

• South Dakota Department of Social Services
  Phone: 1-800-597-1603

  Website

  For Medicaid and other state benefits.
• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Website

  For federal disability benefits.

• Can Myalgic Encephalomyelitis qualify for SSI or SSDI in South Dakota?

  Yes, if your condition meets SSA’s definition of disability and you meet the income and resource requirements for SSI or the work credit requirements for SSDI. Medical documentation is required to prove your disability.

• What is the income limit for SSI in South Dakota?

  The federal SSI income limit for 2025 is $943 per month for an individual. South Dakota does not add a state supplement to SSI payments.

• How do I apply for Medicaid in South Dakota if I have Myalgic Encephalomyelitis?

  You can apply for Medicaid through the South Dakota Department of Social Services. If you receive SSI, you may automatically qualify for Medicaid. Otherwise, you can apply online or by phone.

• What are work incentives for people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis in South Dakota?

  Work incentives include Impairment Related Work Expenses, Plan for Achieving Self-Support, and continued Medicaid coverage under 1619(b). These programs help you work while keeping your benefits.

• Can I keep my Medicaid if I start working in South Dakota?

  Yes, if your earnings are below the state threshold of $53,022 per year in 2025, you can continue to receive Medicaid under the 1619(b) program.

• What is an ABLE account and how can it help me?

  An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. It allows you to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses.