What Conditions Qualify for Disability in Nebraska?
If you're a Nebraska resident and have a medical condition that prevents you from working, then you could qualify for benefits through the Social Security Administration's (SSA) federal programs, like Social Security Disability (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Read on to learn about the most common conditions that qualify for disability benefits in Nebraska, as well as the general criteria to qualify for SSDI and SSI.
Common Conditions Qualifying for Disability in Nebraska
The SSA's "Blue Book" outlines various medical conditions that may qualify individuals for Social Security disability benefits. In Nebraska, those with certain severe health conditions may be eligible for assistance. Based on current data, the most common qualifying disabilities among Nebraska residents receiving disability benefits are:
Mental health conditions - 39.3%
Intellectual disorders - 12.1%
Depressive, bipolar, and related disorders - 11.4%
Schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders - 5.5%
Other mental disorders - 5.4%
Neurocognitive disorders - 3.1%
Autism spectrum disorders - 1.6%
Developmental disorders - 0.1%
Childhood and adolescent disorders not elsewhere classified - 0.1%
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders - 24.0%
Nervous system and sense organs disorders - 11.6%
Circulatory system (cardiovascular) disorders - 6.2%
Injuries - 3.6%
Cancers (neoplasms) - 3.2%
Respiratory system - 2.7%
Endocrine, nutritional, and metabolic diseases - 2.2%
Unknown - 1.8%
Genitourinary disorders (kidney disease) - 1.6%
Digestive system disorders - 1.5%
Congenital anomalies (birth defects) - 1.0%
Infectious and parasitic diseases - 0.6%
(Hematological) Blood and blood-forming organ disorders - 0.2%
Skin and subcutaneous tissue conditions - 0.2%
Other - 0.2%
Even if your condition isn't listed, you may still qualify for benefits if you can prove that your condition significantly limits your ability to perform work activities.
Criteria to Qualify for Disability Benefits in Nebraska
To receive SSDI or SSI benefits in Nebraska, applicants must have qualifying medical conditions and show they need financial help.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Criteria
Have a Disabling Medical Condition: Your condition must significantly impair your ability to perform Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a "Listing of Impairments" that details the conditions deemed severe enough to prevent an individual from working. Even if your condition is not specifically listed, you might still qualify for benefits if you can demonstrate that your condition is equally severe.
Have a Long-Term Disability: The disability must be expected to last 12 months or result in death. Temporary or short-term conditions will not qualify for SSDI.
Have Earned Enough Work Credits: SSDI is designed for those with sufficient work history. Generally, the SSA looks for 40 work credits. Of those credits, 20 need to be earned in the last 10 years. However, younger workers with fewer work credits may still qualify.
Have an Income That Doesn't Exceed Established Limits: While SSDI benefits are not means-tested, engaging in SGA can affect eligibility. In 2025, earning more than $1,620 ($2,700 if you are blind) is considered SGA and could disqualify you from receiving benefits.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Criteria
You Must Have a Qualifying Disability: SSI requires you to have a medical condition that severely limits your ability to work. This condition also should be expected to last 12 months or result in death.
Assets Must Be Below Allowable Levels: SSI is a needs-based program that requires applicants to have limited amounts of income and resources. As of 2025, the resource limits are $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. Countable resources include cash, bank accounts, and property (excluding the primary residence and one vehicle).
You Must be a United States Resident: Applicants must be residents of the United States, the District of Columbia, or the Northern Mariana Islands. Applicants must also be United States citizens or qualifying non-citizens.
Get Expert Help Applying for Benefits
Navigating the complexities of SSI or SSDI can be challenging or overwhelming. Many initial claims are denied due to insufficient medical documentation, errors in the application, or lack of evidence.
Seeking assistance from a disability lawyer can improve your chances of approval. A skilled attorney can help gather necessary evidence, ensure the application is complete, or represent you during an appeals process if needed. Contact us today for a free consultation.