$140B
Government benefits go unclaimed every year in the U.S.
White House OMB, 2023
9M
Older adults are eligible for benefits but not enrolled
NCOA/Urban Institute, 2024
~100M
Americans receive some form of government assistance
U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services, 2023
North Dakota Government Benefits Programs
Explore the main benefit programs available and find the ones that apply to your situation.
Available programs in North Dakota
SSDI in North Dakota - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI in North Dakota - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI is money you already earned by paying Social Security taxes on every paycheck. If a medical condition now keeps you from working, you may be owed a monthly payment based on your work history, not the severity of your condition. It is federal, so the rules are the same in North Dakota as everywhere else.
AVERAGE MONTHLY PAYMENT
$1,630
What the average disabled worker receives each month in 2026
SSA 2026 COLA Fact Sheet
HOW OFTEN CLAIMS ARE DENIED
2 in 3
First applications are usually denied, most are reversed on appeal, which is why getting it right matters
SSA
YOU CAN STILL WORK
$1,690/mo
The most you can earn from a job in 2026 and still qualify
SSA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Workers age 31 and older typically need to have worked at least 5 of the last 10 years and paid Social Security taxes
- People with a condition expected to last at least 12 months or be terminal
- The condition prevents substantial work, defined by the SSA's annual earnings limit (higher for people who are blind)
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. We handle the entire process for you, from the paperwork to every appeal. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Does SSDI approval lead to other benefits in North Dakota?
Yes. After 24 months on SSDI, you become eligible for Medicare regardless of age. North Dakota also expanded Medicaid, so lower-income SSDI recipients may qualify for coverage while they wait.
How long does SSDI take in North Dakota?
North Dakota processes initial claims through its Disability Determination Services. An initial decision typically takes 3 to 6 months, with appeals taking a year or more if needed. The earlier you apply, the more back pay you may receive.
Can I work while applying?
Yes, as long as you stay under the SSA's monthly limit for substantial gainful activity. In 2026 that limit is $1,690 a month, or $2,830 if you are blind.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SSI in North Dakota - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI in North Dakota - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI is monthly cash for people who are struggling to get by. You can qualify if you're disabled, blind, or 65 or older, and have very little income and few assets. Unlike SSDI, you don't need a work history, it's based on need. North Dakota is a 209(b) state, so SSI approval does not automatically enroll you in Medicaid, you apply for that separately.
MONTHLY MAXIMUM
$994
The federal SSI payment for one person in 2026. North Dakota does not add a state supplement
SSA, 2026
SAVINGS YOU CAN KEEP
$2,000
The federal SSI resource limit. Your home and one car never count
SSA, 2026
WHO CAN QUALIFY
No work history
SSI is based on need, not your work record. People 65+, blind, or disabled can qualify
SSA
Who qualifies
- People who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older
- Those with very limited income
- Limited resources, with your home and one car not counting against the limit
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. SSI applications involve detailed financial records that trip people up, and one mistake can delay your case. We handle all of it for you. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Will I get Medicaid with SSI in North Dakota?
Not automatically. North Dakota is a 209(b) state, so you apply for Medicaid separately through ND Health and Human Services rather than being enrolled the moment SSI is approved.
Does North Dakota add to my SSI payment?
No. North Dakota does not pay a general state supplement, so most recipients get only the federal amount, up to $994 for one person in 2026.
Can I receive both SSI and SSDI?
Sometimes. If your SSDI payment is low enough, SSI can fill the gap up to the federal rate. This is called concurrent benefits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Veterans Benefits in North Dakota
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
Veterans Benefits in North Dakota
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
VA disability is tax-free monthly pay you earned through your service. If you have an injury or condition connected to your military service, you may be owed compensation every month. On top of federal pay, North Dakota offers a Disabled Veterans Property Tax Credit that can lower the tax on your home.
MONTHLY PAY AT 100%
$3,938
What a veteran rated 100% with no dependents receives each month in 2026, tax-free
VA.gov, 2026
TAXES YOU OWE ON IT
$0
VA disability pay is never counted as taxable income by the IRS
IRS
ND PROPERTY TAX CREDIT
50% rating or higher
Veterans rated at least 50% can get a state credit on the first $9,000 of their home's taxable value
ND Tax Commissioner, 2025
Who qualifies
- Veterans who served on active duty or qualifying training (Guard and Reserve can count)
- Those with a current condition connected to their service
- North Dakota veterans rated at least 50% seeking the state property tax credit
- Those discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
How to apply
The fastest way to get what you're owed is through Turnout. Our VA advocates build your claim from the start, catch rating errors, and fight back if the VA gets it wrong. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
How does the VA disability rating work?
The VA rates you from 0 to 100 percent based on how much your condition affects you. That rating sets your monthly payment. If you have more than one condition, they are combined, not simply added.
Does North Dakota offer extra benefits for disabled veterans?
Yes. North Dakota gives a Disabled Veterans Property Tax Credit to veterans rated 50% or higher, applied to the first $9,000 of your home's taxable value. This is separate from your federal VA compensation.
Can I get VA disability and Social Security at the same time?
Yes. They are separate programs with separate rules, so receiving VA disability does not reduce your SSDI.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Healthcare Advocacy in North Dakota
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare Advocacy in North Dakota
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare advocacy is one-on-one help getting the most out of your Medicare. Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65 and older, and for some younger people on disability, and most plans cover more than people realize. A Turnout advocate works with you to understand your coverage, find the right specialists, manage your prescriptions, and cut your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there is no cost to you.
WHERE TURNOUT HELPS
All 50 states
Turnout's healthcare advocates work with people in every U.S. state
Turnout
WHAT IT COSTS YOU
$0
Your insurance pays for the advocacy, so there's nothing out of pocket for you
Turnout
FREE STATE COUNSELING
SHIC
North Dakota's State Health Insurance Counseling program gives free, unbiased Medicare help at 1-888-575-6611
ND Insurance Department, 2026
Who qualifies
- Anyone with Medicare, including Part B, or approaching eligibility at 65
- People who have received SSDI for 24 months
- People who want help using their coverage, finding care, or cutting costs
- People comparing Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Part D plans
How to apply
The fastest way to get the most from your Medicare is through Turnout. We pair you with a healthcare advocate who helps you understand your coverage, find specialists, manage prescriptions, and lower your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there's no cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
What does a healthcare advocate do for you in North Dakota?
A healthcare advocate helps you understand and use your coverage, from finding specialists to managing prescriptions to lowering what you pay. With Turnout, the advocacy is covered by Medicare at no cost to you.
What's the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?
Medicare is federal health insurance based mainly on age or disability, not income. Medicaid is based on income, and North Dakota has expanded it to more low-income adults. Some people qualify for both.
Is North Dakota SHIC counseling really free?
Yes. North Dakota's State Health Insurance Counseling (SHIC) program is free and unbiased, and counselors are not tied to any insurance company. Call 1-888-575-6611.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Education Advocacy in North Dakota
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education Advocacy in North Dakota
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education advocacy is one-on-one help getting your child the school support they're entitled to. Under federal law, a child with a disability has the right to an Individualized Education Program, or IEP, a plan the school must follow and pay for. Evaluations get delayed and support gets watered down, and many families don't realize they can push back. A Turnout education advocate prepares with you, joins your IEP meetings, reviews the plan, and pushes for everything the law requires.
CONDITIONS THAT QUALIFY
13 categories
From autism to dyslexia to ADHD, federal law covers a wide range
IDEA / U.S. Dept. of Ed
EVALUATION TIMELINE
60 calendar days
North Dakota schools must finish the initial evaluation within 60 calendar days of your written consent
ND Dept. of Public Instruction, 2026
AN IEP IS
Legally binding
The school must deliver every service written in the plan, by law
IDEA
Who qualifies
- Children ages 3 to 21 enrolled in North Dakota public schools
- A qualifying disability under IDEA, such as a learning disability, ADHD, autism, or speech delay
- A disability that affects their ability to learn
How to apply
The fastest way to get your child the help they need is through Turnout. Our education advocates prepare with you, join your IEP meetings, and push the school for every service your child is entitled to. Reach out to get started.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan?
An IEP provides specialized instruction and services for a child with a disability. A 504 plan provides accommodations, like extra time or seating changes, but not specialized instruction. A child who needs more than accommodations usually needs an IEP.
How fast does the school have to evaluate my child in North Dakota?
North Dakota schools must complete the initial evaluation within 60 calendar days of getting your written consent, then hold the meeting to develop the IEP within 30 calendar days of deciding the child is eligible.
What if I disagree with the school's evaluation?
You can request an Independent Educational Evaluation. The school must consider it and, in many cases, pay for it.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Medicaid in North Dakota
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying North Dakota residents.
Medicaid in North Dakota
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying North Dakota residents.
North Dakota Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and more for those who qualify, usually at no cost. North Dakota expanded Medicaid, so adults ages 19 to 64 can qualify with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level, even with no children. Children can be covered by Medicaid or the state's CHIP program, Healthy Steps.
EXPANSION ADULT LIMIT
138% FPL
Adults 19 to 64 can qualify for Medicaid Expansion with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level
ND Health and Human Services, 2026
KIDS AND HEALTHY STEPS
Up to 205% FPL
Children can be covered through Medicaid or the Healthy Steps CHIP program up to 205% of poverty
CMS State Plan Amendment ND-24-0007, 2024
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
About 105,000
North Dakotans enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP as of mid-2025 (approximate)
KFF/Medicaid.gov via healthinsurance.org, 2025 (approx.)
Who qualifies
- Adults 19 to 64 with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level
- Children up to 205% of poverty through Medicaid or Healthy Steps CHIP
- Pregnant people up to 170% of poverty, with coverage continuing 12 months after birth
- People who are aged, blind, or have disabilities under separate rules
How to apply
Apply online through the North Dakota Self Service Portal at applyforhelp.nd.gov, or call 1-844-854-4825. Have proof of income, household, and identity ready. Most decisions arrive within 45 days, and coverage can be backdated for eligible months.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get Medicaid without children in North Dakota?
Yes. Because North Dakota expanded Medicaid, adults 19 to 64 can qualify with income up to 138 percent of poverty even with no kids.
What is Healthy Steps?
Healthy Steps is North Dakota's CHIP program for children whose family income is a bit too high for regular Medicaid, covering kids up to 205 percent of poverty.
When do the income limits change?
North Dakota updates its Medicaid income limits each year on April 1 using the new federal poverty guidelines.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SNAP in North Dakota
Monthly grocery benefits on an EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP in North Dakota
Monthly grocery benefits on an EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP is a federal program that helps qualifying households buy groceries. Benefits are loaded each month onto a North Dakota EBT card and can be used at most grocery stores and many farmers markets. North Dakota uses broad-based categorical eligibility, which raises the gross income limit to 200% of poverty, higher than the federal 130%, so more working families qualify. The program is run by ND Health and Human Services.
GROSS INCOME LIMIT
200% FPL
North Dakota's broad-based categorical eligibility raises the gross income limit to 200% of the federal poverty level
ND HHS SNAP policy manual, 2026
MAX BENEFIT (FAMILY OF 4)
$994/mo
Federal maximum SNAP allotment for a family of four in FY2026
USDA, FY2026
HOW FAST APPROVAL HAPPENS
7 days
Expedited benefits for households with very low income or urgent need; standard processing up to 30 days
USDA FNS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Households with gross income up to 200% of the federal poverty level under North Dakota's rules
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in North Dakota
- Most households with no asset test, because of broad-based categorical eligibility
- Households with a member 60 or older or with a disability follow simpler income rules
How to apply
Apply online through the North Dakota Self Service Portal at applyforhelp.nd.gov, or call the Customer Support Center at 1-866-614-6005. An interview is required. Standard processing takes up to 30 days, with expedited benefits within 7 days for urgent need.
Frequently asked questions
I work full-time. Can I still qualify for SNAP in North Dakota?
Yes. Because North Dakota raises the gross income limit to 200 percent of poverty, many working households qualify once deductions are applied. Income alone does not tell the full story.
Is there an asset limit?
For most households, no. North Dakota's broad-based categorical eligibility removes the asset test for the majority of applicants.
How fast can I get help in an emergency?
If you have very little income and few resources, you may qualify for expedited SNAP within 7 days of applying.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in North Dakota
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in North Dakota
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, helps pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5 eat well. It provides monthly benefits for healthy groceries, plus breastfeeding support and nutrition help. Many working families qualify, and being on Medicaid or SNAP usually qualifies you automatically. North Dakota benefits come on an eWIC card.
INCOME, FAMILY OF 4
About $5,088/mo
A family of four can qualify with gross monthly income up to about this amount, which is 185% of the 2026 federal poverty level (effective June 1, 2026)
ND HHS WIC eligibility guidelines, 2026
ON MEDICAID OR SNAP?
Auto-eligible
Being on Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF automatically meets WIC's income test
USDA
HOW BENEFITS ARRIVE
eWIC card
North Dakota WIC benefits load onto an eWIC card used at authorized grocery stores statewide
ND Health and Human Services, 2026
Who qualifies
- Pregnant women, new mothers, and caregivers of infants and children under age 5
- Households at or below 185% of the federal poverty level
- Families already receiving SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF are automatically income-eligible
- North Dakota residents, regardless of immigration status
How to apply
Call 1-800-472-2286 or visit signupwic.com to find your local clinic and schedule an appointment; enrollment is in person. Bring ID for each family member applying, proof of North Dakota residency, and proof of income or of Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF enrollment. If approved, you receive your North Dakota eWIC card the same day.
Frequently asked questions
What can you buy with WIC?
Healthy basics like milk, eggs, cereal, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and infant formula and baby food. The specific approved items are set by North Dakota's food list.
Can I get WIC if I have a job?
Yes. Many working families qualify. WIC's income limits are higher than people expect, and being on Medicaid or SNAP usually qualifies you automatically.
Does WIC cover baby formula?
Yes. WIC provides infant formula for babies who need it, and it also supports breastfeeding with counseling and ongoing help.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
LIHEAP in North Dakota
Assistance that helps cover your home heating bills and prevents shutoffs.
LIHEAP in North Dakota
Assistance that helps cover your home heating bills and prevents shutoffs.
North Dakota's Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps qualifying households pay their heating bills, plus emergencies and weatherization. The benefit is set so eligible families pay no more than 6 percent of their income toward heating. The program is federally funded and run by ND Health and Human Services through local Human Service Zones. Applications are accepted year-round.
INCOME LIMIT
60% of state median
Households at or below 60 percent of North Dakota's state median income can qualify for heating and emergency help
ND HHS LIHEAP, 2026
CAP ON WHAT YOU PAY
6% of income
The benefit is calculated so eligible households pay no more than 6 percent of their income toward home heating
ND HHS, 2024
AVERAGE MONTHLY HELP
$161/mo
The average monthly LIHEAP household benefit in North Dakota over the past year
ND HHS, 2026
Who qualifies
- North Dakota households with income at or below 60% of the state median income
- Both homeowners and renters, including renters whose heat is included in rent
- Households facing shutoff, disconnection, or running out of fuel
- Households on SNAP, SSI, or TANF are automatically income-eligible
How to apply
Apply online through the North Dakota Self Service Portal, or call Community Options at 1-800-823-2417 for help. You can also apply through your local Human Service Zone office. Applications are accepted year-round, and heating benefits are now issued year-round.
Frequently asked questions
What is the LIHEAP income limit in North Dakota?
Your household income must be at or below 60 percent of North Dakota's state median income for your household size. If you get SNAP, SSI, or TANF, you automatically meet the income test.
Can I get help in a heating emergency?
Yes. If you have an energy emergency such as a shutoff or disconnection notice, no deliverable fuel, or a broken furnace, you can apply for emergency assistance year-round.
Is LIHEAP only for winter?
No. North Dakota now accepts applications and issues heating benefits year-round, and cooling help is available in summer.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
ACA Subsidies in North Dakota
Federal subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance for qualifying North Dakotans.
ACA Subsidies in North Dakota
Federal subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance for qualifying North Dakotans.
ACA subsidies are federal tax credits that reduce the monthly cost of a health insurance plan bought through HealthCare.gov, the federal marketplace. North Dakota uses the federal marketplace rather than running its own. Most enrollees get subsidies that lower the cost, and if your income is low enough, you may qualify for Medicaid instead.
WHERE TO ENROLL
HealthCare.gov
North Dakota does not run its own exchange, so you enroll through the federal marketplace at HealthCare.gov
HealthCare.gov, 2026
NORTH DAKOTANS HELPED
34,000+
North Dakotans received premium tax credits through the marketplace in 2024
ND HHS via North Dakota Monitor, 2025
WHEN TO ENROLL
Nov 1 -- Jan 15
Open enrollment for the coming year. Special enrollment is available after a qualifying life event
HealthCare.gov
Who qualifies
- North Dakotans without affordable employer coverage available
- Households earning at or above 100% of the federal poverty level
- Those not eligible for Medicaid, CHIP, or Medicare
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in North Dakota
How to apply
Enroll at HealthCare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596, open 24/7. Enter household income, family size, and ZIP code to see your subsidy estimate and available plans. Open enrollment runs November 1 to January 15, and a life event like job loss can open a special window. The marketplace also checks you for North Dakota Medicaid.
Frequently asked questions
Does North Dakota have its own marketplace?
No. North Dakota uses the federal marketplace, so you enroll through HealthCare.gov or by calling 1-800-318-2596.
What if my income is too low for ACA subsidies?
Apply anyway. HealthCare.gov checks you for North Dakota Medicaid first. Because North Dakota expanded Medicaid, many low-income adults qualify for coverage instead of a subsidized plan.
How much can I save with subsidies?
It depends on your income, household size, and plan. Most North Dakota enrollees receive premium tax credits, applied automatically when you enroll through HealthCare.gov.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
TANF in North Dakota
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
TANF in North Dakota
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) provides short-term cash help to families with children who have very limited income. In North Dakota a family of three can receive up to $872 a month. Most adults take part in the JOBS (Job Opportunities and Basic Skills) program. The program is run by ND Health and Human Services and comes with a federal 60-month lifetime limit.
MAXIMUM MONTHLY BENEFIT
$872
The maximum monthly cash grant for a family of three with no countable income. (This is the benefit paid, not the income limit)
NCCP / CBPP TANF benefit tables, 2024
LIFETIME LIMIT
60 months
The federal lifetime cap on cash assistance for adults, with limited exceptions
HHS ACF / CBPP, 2026
WORK PROGRAM
JOBS
Most non-exempt adults must take part in the Job Opportunities and Basic Skills program
ND HHS, 2026
Who qualifies
- North Dakota residents responsible for a child under 18 (or 18 and finishing high school)
- Parents or caretaker relatives with countable income below 50% of the federal poverty level
- Adults must take part in the JOBS work program unless exempt
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens
How to apply
Apply online through the North Dakota Self Service Portal at applyforhelp.nd.gov, or at your local Human Service Zone office. You can also call the TANF/JOBS line at 1-800-755-2716. Complete an interview to determine eligibility. If approved, benefits arrive within 30 days.
Frequently asked questions
How much cash can a family of three get in North Dakota?
The maximum monthly TANF benefit for a family of three with no income is $872. The exact amount depends on your household size and income.
What is the JOBS program?
JOBS (Job Opportunities and Basic Skills) is the work and training part of TANF. Most non-exempt adults must take part to keep receiving benefits.
Can I receive TANF and SNAP at the same time?
Yes. TANF recipients are generally categorically eligible for SNAP. Applying on the ND Self Service Portal can screen you for both.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
EITC in North Dakota (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
EITC in North Dakota (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
The Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC, is a tax break for people who work but earn low to moderate income. It is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal tax. The amount depends on your income and family size, and you have to file a tax return to claim it. North Dakota does not have its own state EITC, so the federal credit is what applies.
WORTH UP TO
$8,231
The 2026 maximum for workers with three or more children, with smaller credits for fewer or no kids
IRS, 2026
OWE NO TAX?
Still get cash back
The EITC is refundable, so you receive the full amount as a refund even if you owe nothing
IRS
NORTH DAKOTA STATE EITC
None
North Dakota does not offer a state EITC; a temporary state credit expired after 2022
Tax Credits for Workers and Families, 2025
Who qualifies
- Workers with earned income from a job or self-employment
- Income within the federal limits for filing status and number of children
- Valid Social Security numbers for the worker, spouse, and any children
- Filers with investment income under the annual IRS limit
How to apply
You claim the EITC by filing a federal tax return, even if you don't normally have to file. Free filing help is available through IRS Free File and IRS-certified VITA volunteers. Because North Dakota has no state EITC, there is nothing extra to file at the state level.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get EITC without kids?
No kids needed. Workers without children can still qualify for a smaller credit, up to $664 in 2026, and having children increases the amount.
Does North Dakota have its own state EITC?
No. North Dakota does not currently offer a state earned income tax credit. A temporary one was available only for 2021 and 2022, so only the federal EITC applies now.
Will getting EITC affect my other benefits?
Generally no. EITC refunds aren't counted as income for programs like SNAP or Medicaid, and there are protections so a refund doesn't immediately count against asset limits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Tax Credit in North Dakota
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
Child Tax Credit in North Dakota
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
The Child Tax Credit is a federal tax credit worth up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17, available to North Dakota families when they file their federal tax return. Up to $1,700 per child is refundable, meaning lower-income families can receive it as a direct payment even when they owe no federal tax. North Dakota does not have a separate state child tax credit, so the federal credit is what applies.
WHO IT'S FOR
Kids under 17
A federal tax credit for each qualifying child under 17 living at home
IRS
OWE LITTLE OR NO TAX?
Some comes back
Up to $1,700 per child is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal income tax
IRS, 2026
NORTH DAKOTA STATE CTC
None
North Dakota does not offer a state-level Child Tax Credit
Tax Credits for Workers and Families, 2025
Who qualifies
- Families with a qualifying child under 17 with a valid Social Security number
- Part of the credit comes back as a refund for families with at least $2,500 in earned income
- Full credit for incomes up to $200,000, or $400,000 for married couples
How to apply
You claim the Child Tax Credit when you file a federal tax return. You can claim it even if you don't normally file. Tax software and free filing help will walk you through it and fill in the right forms (Schedule 8812) for you.
Frequently asked questions
Does my child need a Social Security number?
Yes. You, your spouse if filing jointly, and each qualifying child must have a valid Social Security number issued before the return due date.
What is the Additional Child Tax Credit?
The Additional Child Tax Credit is the refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit. For 2026, up to $1,700 per child is refundable. You need at least $2,500 in earned income to qualify and claim it on Schedule 8812.
Does North Dakota have a state Child Tax Credit?
No. North Dakota does not have a state-level Child Tax Credit. The federal credit is fully available to North Dakota residents, but there is no additional state supplement on top of it.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Care Assistance in North Dakota
Subsidized child care for working North Dakota families.
Child Care Assistance in North Dakota
Subsidized child care for working North Dakota families.
North Dakota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps working families and students pay for child care. New applicants can qualify with income up to 75% of the state median income, and families can stay eligible up to 85%. Because of high demand, a waitlist for new applicants began December 1, 2025, so apply as soon as you can. The program is run by ND Health and Human Services through local Human Service Zones.
ENTRY INCOME LIMIT
75% of state median
New applicants can qualify with household income at or below 75% of the state median income
ND HHS / ND Legislature testimony, 2025
CONTINUING LIMIT
Up to 85% of SMI
Families already enrolled can keep help until their income rises above 85% of the state median income
ND HHS CCAP policy manual, 2025
WAITLIST ACTIVE
Since Dec 1, 2025
A waitlist for new applicants started December 1, 2025 due to funding limits; the lowest-income families get priority. Apply early
ND Health and Human Services, 2026
Who qualifies
- North Dakota families needing child care while parents work, attend school, or train
- Households at or below 75% of the state median income to enter the program
- Children from birth through age 12, or up to 19 with special needs
- Priority groups such as families at or below 30% of state median income and those experiencing homelessness
How to apply
Apply online through the North Dakota Self Service Portal at applyforhelp.nd.gov, or through your local Human Service Zone office. You will need proof of income and your work, school, or training schedule. Because of the waitlist that began December 1, 2025, apply as early as you can.
Frequently asked questions
What is the income limit for CCAP in North Dakota?
New applicants can qualify with income up to 75 percent of the state median income, and enrolled families can stay eligible until income rises above 85 percent.
Is there a waitlist?
Yes. A waitlist for new applicants began December 1, 2025, with priority for families at or below 30 percent of the state median income and those experiencing homelessness.
What ages does CCAP cover?
Children from birth through age 12 are covered, and children with special needs may qualify up to age 19.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
