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Hawaii • Neurodegenerative
People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Hawaii can access both federal and state benefits, including disability insurance, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) automatically qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) because ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition. This means the Social Security Administration (SSA) fast-tracks applications for ALS. To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. Both programs require medical proof of ALS, usually from a neurologist. You can receive both SSDI and SSI if you meet both sets of rules. [^1]
In Hawaii, people with ALS may qualify for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if they cannot work due to their illness. To be eligible, you must have worked at least 14 weeks in Hawaii, with at least 20 hours paid each week. TDI covers up to 26 weeks of partial wage replacement for non-work-related disabilities. There is no state-run TDI fund; employers must provide coverage through private plans. You must file a claim within 90 days of becoming disabled to avoid losing benefits. [^2][^3][^4]
Hawaii offers ABLE accounts, which let people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. You can use ABLE funds for disability-related expenses like medical care, housing, and education. To open an account, visit the Hawaii ABLE program website. [^6]
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943/month for an individual in 2025. For Medicaid, income limits vary by program and household size. ABLE accounts have a $100,000 limit before SSI is affected. [^1][^6]
If you receive too much SSI or SSDI, you must report it and may have to repay the overpayment. Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. [^7]
ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition, so Social Security fast-tracks applications. Most people get a decision within a few weeks.
File your TDI claim within 90 days of your disability start date to avoid losing benefits.
Yes, ALS is a qualifying disability for both federal and Hawaii state programs. You can get SSDI, SSI, and Hawaii TDI if you meet eligibility rules.
Ask your employer for TDI claim forms. File the claim within 90 days of your disability start date. You must have worked at least 14 weeks in Hawaii with 20+ hours paid each week.
In 2025, the maximum weekly TDI benefit in Hawaii is $837, which is 58% of your average weekly wage. Benefits last up to 26 weeks.
Yes, people with ALS can qualify for Medicaid, especially through HCBS waivers that cover long-term care. Contact the Hawaii Department of Human Services for details.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. Hawaii offers ABLE accounts for residents.
Yes, if your TDI claim is denied, you have 20 days to appeal in writing. Submit your appeal to the Disability Compensation Division in Honolulu or your local office.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition, so SSA fast-tracks applications. Most people get a decision within a few weeks.
Yes, SSI and SSDI have work incentives that let you try working without losing benefits. Check with SSA for details on work limits and reporting.
Medicaid HCBS waivers can help pay for home health aides, equipment, and other support services for people with ALS.
Yes, veterans with ALS may qualify for VA disability benefits in addition to SSDI and SSI. Contact the VA for more information.
