Native American Family Support Project

Supplemental Security Income (SSI): This is a cash benefit to persons with disabilities. It is around $550 per month, but is different across states. There is a cost of living increase each year. The individual must qualify based on both disability and income. To be eligible, a child must have a "marked and severe" functional limitation from a physical or mental condition. While children may qualify due to disability, it is possible they may not get benefits, or get lower benefits, if the parents have a high income or substantial property.

Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) This is a cash benefit to disabled workers and sometimes their dependent children. The amount depends on how long the worker paid into the social security system.

Apply for SSI or SSDI - At your local Social Security Administration office. You can call the Social Security office Monday through Friday, toll-free from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Central Time) at 1-800-772-1213. Individuals who are hearing impaired and need a TTY machine should call 1-800-325-0778.

Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) provides cash benefits to families with dependent children. Eligibility is based on income, not disability. TANF rules differ by state. Some states consider raising a child with a disability a "hardship" that will waive some requirements.

For an extensive reference on resources for families of persons with disabilities, you can click here to download the 110-page resource guide generously provided by the University of North Dakota. Here you will find information on every imaginable service from child care for children with disabilities to payment for specialty health care to senior companions.This guide focuses on North Dakota but also includes some national organizations. Contact information (phone, address, and email) is included for North Dakota offices.

Medicaid provides free health care programs to children and adults.In North Dakota, you must apply for SSI and Medicaid separately. You can find information about applying for Medicaid at all County Social Services offices.