Hawaii residents with amputation can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Medicaid waiver programs. The state’s Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) offers short-term wage replacement for non-work injuries, while federal programs provide long-term support. Learn how to apply, income limits, and state-specific resources for Hawaii disability benefits.
Federal benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) require your medical condition (such as amputation) to meet Social Security’s strict disability definition—severe, long-term, and preventing substantial work. SSDI requires enough work credits, while SSI is based on financial need. Both require up-to-date medical records and, often, supportive statements from your doctors.
Hawaii’s Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) is available to most employees with at least 14 weeks of employment (20+ hours/week) in Hawaii[5]. Benefits are not state-administered; instead, employers must provide coverage, either through a private plan or by contributing to a state fund (for very small employers). For Medicaid, Hawaii uses federal income limits but may have additional programs or waivers for those with disabilities, like Home and Community Based Services (HCBS).
In addition to SSI and SSDI, people with amputation in Hawaii may be eligible for Medicare (if over 65 or after 24 months of SSDI) and Medicaid (if income and disability requirements are met). SSDI provides monthly income based on your work history; SSI provides a basic income for those with limited resources and may come with automatic Medicaid eligibility.
Hawaii offers Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), covering up to 26 weeks of partial wage replacement at 58% of average weekly pay (max $837/week in 2025) for non-work-related disabilities[1][4][6]. TDI is not state-administered—employers must provide coverage. Medicaid is available for low-income residents, and HCBS Waivers (Home and Community-Based Services) may help you receive care at home. For people with amputation, these waivers can fund services like personal care, therapy, and assistive technology. Hawaii does not operate a state-run disability program besides TDI. If your employer does not have a TDI policy, you may contact the Disability Compensation Division for assistance[5].
ABLE accounts allow you to save up to $100,000 without losing eligibility for SSI and Medicaid. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses, including assistive technology, housing, transportation, and healthcare. These accounts are managed at the state level; you can open one even if you receive other benefits.
SSI has strict income and resource limits—individuals can have up to $2,000 in countable resources, and couples up to $3,000 (as of 2025, check ssa.gov for updates). Medicaid in Hawaii uses federal poverty level (FPL) guidelines, but people with disabilities may qualify under higher income limits or special programs. TDI income replacement is up to 58% of your average weekly wage, capped at $837/week (2025)[1][4][6].
If you receive SSI, SSDI, or Medicaid, you must report changes in income, living situation, or medical condition promptly to avoid overpayments. Overpayments may require repayment and can affect your benefits. For TDI, make sure your employer and insurance carrier have your current contact information and promptly update them about any changes in your health status or work ability.
Hawaii does not administer TDI benefits directly from the state. If you have a non-work-related amputation, you must file your TDI claim through your employer or their insurance carrier—not a state agency. If your employer does not have coverage or denies your claim, you can seek assistance from the Disability Compensation Division[5].
If your TDI or SSI/SSDI claim is denied, appeal quickly. You only have 20 days to appeal a TDI denial in Hawaii[5]. For SSI and SSDI, you’ll have longer, but many people win benefits only after appealing. Keep all your paperwork and seek help from local legal aid or advocacy groups.
Hawaii TDI pays 58% of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum of $837 per week in 2025, for up to 26 weeks for non-work-related injuries like amputation[1][4][6]. You must file a claim with your employer or their insurance provider.
TDI provides income replacement, not job protection. However, federal (FMLA) and state leave laws (Hawaii Family Leave Law) may protect your job if you are eligible; check with your employer and review your rights under these laws[4].
Yes, you may receive both SSDI and TDI, but SSDI may reduce your monthly payment to account for other benefits. Always report all sources of income to both Social Security and your TDI provider to avoid overpayments.
Medicaid waivers, like the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver, allow people with disabilities to receive services at home instead of in an institution. These services can include personal care, therapy, and durable medical equipment, which are critical for those with amputation.
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. You will need medical records, proof of income/resources, and identification. The process can take several months, so start as soon as possible.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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ABLE accounts allow individuals with disabilities to save money (up to $100,000 for SSI purposes) for disability-related expenses without losing benefits. You can open an account through a participating state, even if Hawaii does not have its own program.
If your TDI claim is denied, you have 20 calendar days to appeal. Write why you disagree, include evidence, and send it to the Disability Compensation Division or the nearest Department of Labor & Industrial Relations office[5].
Hawaii TDI benefits last up to 26 weeks for non-work-related disabilities, with no extensions beyond that timeframe[3][8].
Yes, Hawaii has special Medicaid programs and waivers for people with disabilities that may have higher income limits than regular Medicaid. Contact the Department of Human Services for details.
Local nonprofit organizations, legal aid, and Hawaii’s Disability Compensation Division (for TDI) can help. The Social Security Administration can assist with federal benefits, and Hawaii’s Department of Human Services can help with Medicaid.
