If you have aphasia in Hawaii, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available for people with speech and language disabilities.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with aphasia, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) criteria. This means your condition must prevent you from working at a substantial level. For 2025, if you earn more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind), you generally cannot be considered disabled. SSI is for those with limited income and assets, while SSDI is based on your work history. Both programs require medical proof that aphasia limits your ability to work.
Citations: SSA Disability Qualification, SSA POMS Hawaii
For more details, see our guide on SSI vs SSDI and SSI & SSDI Work Incentives.
In Hawaii, people with aphasia may qualify for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if they cannot work due to a non-work-related illness or injury. To be eligible, you must have at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment, each with 20 or more hours paid. TDI covers up to 26 weeks of leave and pays 58% of your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week in 2025. Employers must withhold TDI contributions, but not more than 0.5% of your weekly wage (max $7.21/week in 2025).
Citations: Hawaii DCD About TDI, NFP Hawaii TDI 2025
For more, see All benefits in your state.
Citations: SSA Apply for Benefits, Hawaii DCD About TDI
For more, see Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes.
Citations: SSA Disability Programs, SSA POMS Hawaii
Citations: Hawaii DCD About TDI, NFP Hawaii TDI 2025, Hawaii Medicaid Waivers
For more, see Medicaid Waivers (HCBS) and ABLE Accounts.
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. In Hawaii, you can open an ABLE account to pay for disability-related expenses. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed. The account does not affect SSI or Medicaid eligibility up to $100,000.
Citations: ABLE National Resource Center, Hawaii ABLE Program
For more, see ABLE Accounts.
Citations: SSA SSI Limits, Hawaii DCD About TDI
For more, see SSI Income Estimator.
If you get too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report changes in income, assets, or living situation to SSA and state agencies. Failure to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. Keep records of all changes and reports.
Citations: SSA Reporting Changes, Hawaii DCD About TDI
For more, see Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes.
Contact Hawaii DCD or SSA for help with applications and benefits planning. State agencies offer free counseling and support.
Yes, if aphasia prevents you from working, you may qualify for federal SSI or SSDI and Hawaii TDI. You must meet income, asset, and work history requirements. Medical proof is required.
Hawaii TDI pays 58% of your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week in 2025. The amount depends on your earnings and the length of your disability.
SSI is for people with limited income and assets. SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. Both require medical proof that aphasia limits your ability to work.
File a claim with SSA for SSI/SSDI and with your employer or insurer for TDI. Gather medical records and proof of income. Submit all required forms and documents.
Yes, but there are limits. For SSI, you must have limited income. For SSDI, you cannot earn more than $1,620/month (2025). Work incentives help you keep benefits while working.
A Medicaid waiver helps people with disabilities get extra support to live in the community. It covers services not included in regular Medicaid, like home care or therapy.
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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You can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed. The account does not affect SSI or Medicaid eligibility up to $100,000.
If your claim is denied, you can appeal within 20 days. Submit your appeal with evidence like pay slips or medical records. Contact Hawaii DCD for help with the appeals process.
Yes, report changes in income, assets, or living situation to SSA and state agencies. Failure to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. Keep records of all changes and reports.
Contact Hawaii DCD, SSA, or a benefits counselor for help. State agencies offer benefits planning and work incentives. You can also get help from nonprofit organizations.
