Rett Syndrome 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 medical condition that prevents you from working, and you must have paid enough Social Security taxes to earn the required work credits. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and meet SSA's disability criteria. Both programs require that your disability is expected to last at least one year or result in death. Most people with Rett Syndrome will qualify under the SSA's Compassionate Allowances program, which fast-tracks claims for certain severe conditions [1].

In South Dakota, individuals with Rett Syndrome may also qualify for state-specific programs. The South Dakota Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program allows people with significant disabilities to work while keeping Medicaid coverage. This program is for those who are employed and have a significant disability, including chronic conditions like Rett Syndrome. Additionally, South Dakota follows federal guidelines for SSI and SSDI, but may have additional state-funded services or waivers for home and community-based care. It's important to check with the South Dakota Department of Social Services for the latest eligibility requirements and available programs [4].

• Gather medical records and documentation of your Rett Syndrome diagnosis.
• Collect non-medical evidence, such as statements from family or employers.
• Contact the Social Security Administration to start your application.
• Consider working with a disability attorney for help with the process.
• Submit your application online, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office.

• Gather Medical Evidence: Collect all medical records, test results, and physician statements that document your Rett Syndrome diagnosis and its impact on your ability to work.
• Collect Non-Medical Evidence: Get statements from family, friends, or employers that describe how your disability affects your daily life.
• Start Your Application: You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at the SSA website, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. Make sure to mention Rett Syndrome as your condition.
• Work with a Disability Attorney: Many initial claims are denied, so consider hiring a disability attorney who is familiar with South Dakota's processes.
• Submit Your Application: Complete the application and submit all required documents. The SSA will review your case, and you may be asked for additional information.
• Wait for a Decision: The review process can take several months. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal.
• Follow Up: Keep track of your application status and respond promptly to any requests from the SSA [5].

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Provides monthly payments to people who cannot work due to a long-term or permanent disability and who have paid enough Social Security taxes.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Provides benefits to people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 and older.
• Medicaid: Federal health insurance for people with low income and limited resources, including those with disabilities.
• Medicare: Federal health insurance for people with disabilities who have received SSDI for 24 months.
• Work Incentives: Programs that allow beneficiaries to work and keep some benefits, such as the Plan for Achieving Self-Support and Impairment Related Work Expenses [2].

• South Dakota Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities: Allows people with significant disabilities to work while keeping Medicaid coverage. This program is for those who are employed and have a significant disability, including chronic conditions like Rett Syndrome.
• Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers: South Dakota offers waivers for long-term care services, which can include home health aides, respite care, and other supports for people with disabilities.
• Vocational Rehabilitation Services: South Dakota provides vocational rehabilitation programs to help people with disabilities return to work or remain employed.
• Continued Medicaid Coverage under 1619(b): Allows individuals to continue receiving Medicaid when their SSI cash payment stops due to earnings that exceed the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level but fall below the state-specific threshold amount. For 2025, the threshold is $53,022 a year [2].
• Expedited Reinstatement: If you lose benefits due to work, you can request reinstatement within 60 months and receive provisional benefits for 6 months while a disability determination is made [2].

An ABLE account allows individuals with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. In South Dakota, you can open an ABLE account to save for qualified disability expenses. Contributions to an ABLE account do not count as income for SSI or Medicaid purposes, and earnings grow tax-free. This can be a valuable tool for managing finances and planning for the future [internal_link_able_accounts].

For SSI in 2025, the federal benefit rate is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. South Dakota does not have a state supplement to SSI. The income limit for SSI is based on countable income, which includes wages, Social Security benefits, and other sources. Some income, such as the first $20 of monthly income and certain work expenses, may be excluded. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you cannot earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is expected to be around $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals in 2025 [1].

It is important to report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to the SSA to avoid overpayments. If you receive an overpayment, you may be required to repay the amount. You can request a waiver if you cannot afford to repay. Reporting changes promptly can help you avoid penalties and ensure you receive the correct amount of benefits [internal_link_overpayments_and_reporting].

• South Dakota Department of Social Services
  Phone: 1-800-224-5336

  Website

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

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Website

  For questions about SSI, SSDI, and disability benefits.

• What is Rett Syndrome?

  Rett Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects brain development, leading to severe physical and cognitive disabilities. It primarily affects girls and is usually diagnosed in early childhood. Most people with Rett Syndrome qualify for disability benefits due to the severity of the condition.

• How do I qualify for SSI or SSDI with Rett Syndrome?

  To qualify for SSI or SSDI, you must meet the Social Security Administration's definition of disability. For Rett Syndrome, this usually means providing medical evidence of your diagnosis and how it affects your ability to work. Most people with Rett Syndrome will qualify under the SSA's Compassionate Allowances program.

• Can I work while receiving disability benefits in South Dakota?

  Yes, South Dakota offers work incentives that allow people with disabilities to work and keep some benefits. The Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities program lets you work while keeping Medicaid coverage. You can also use work incentives like the Plan for Achieving Self-Support and Impairment Related Work Expenses.

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

  For 2025, the federal SSI benefit rate is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. South Dakota does not have a state supplement. Some income, such as the first $20 of monthly income and certain work expenses, may be excluded from countable income.

• How do I apply for disability benefits in South Dakota?

  You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at the SSA website, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. You will need to provide medical records, non-medical evidence, and other documentation. Many initial claims are denied, so consider working with a disability attorney.