If you have arthritis in Hawaii, you may qualify for state and federal disability benefits, including Hawaii Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), Medicaid waivers, and Social Security programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
People with arthritis in Hawaii may qualify for federal disability programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for low-income individuals with limited resources. Both programs require medical proof that arthritis limits your ability to work. You can apply online at ssa.gov or at a local Social Security office. Approval depends on your medical records, work history, and financial situation.
For more details, see the SSI vs SSDI guide and use the SSI Income Estimator.
In Hawaii, arthritis may qualify you for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if it prevents you from working due to a non-work-related illness or injury. To be eligible, you must have at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment, with 20 or more hours paid each week. You must file your claim within 90 days of your disability start date. TDI benefits are paid for up to 26 weeks and cover 58% of your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week in 2025. Job protection is not included in TDI, but you may qualify for leave under federal or state laws like FMLA or Hawaii Family Leave Law.
For more information, visit the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.
Federal programs for arthritis in Hawaii include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI provides monthly payments to people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI offers financial help to low-income individuals with limited resources. Both programs require medical proof that arthritis limits your ability to work. You can also explore Medicaid waivers for long-term care needs and ABLE accounts for saving without affecting benefits.
For more information, see the SSI vs SSDI guide and the Medicaid Waivers guide.
Hawaii’s Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) program provides partial wage replacement for up to 26 weeks if you cannot work due to a non-work-related illness or injury, including arthritis. Benefits are 58% of your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week in 2025. You must have at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment with 20+ hours paid each week. File your claim within 90 days of your disability start date. Job protection is not included in TDI, but you may qualify for leave under federal or state laws like FMLA or Hawaii Family Leave Law.
For more information, visit the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.
ABLE accounts let people with arthritis in Hawaii save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. You can use ABLE funds for qualified disability expenses like medical care, housing, and education. To open an account, visit the ABLE Accounts guide for details on eligibility and enrollment.
For SSI, the federal income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you must not be able to do substantial gainful activity. For Medicaid, income limits vary based on household size and other factors. Check with the Hawaii Department of Human Services for current Medicaid income limits.
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report any changes in your income, living situation, or medical condition to avoid overpayments. For more details, see the Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide.
File your TDI claim within 90 days of your disability start date to avoid losing benefits.
If your claim is denied, you have 20 days to appeal. Submit your appeal to the Division of Disability Compensation.
Yes, if your arthritis prevents you from working due to a non-work-related illness or injury, you may qualify for Hawaii Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI). You must have at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment with 20+ hours paid each week. File your claim within 90 days of your disability start date.
In 2025, Hawaii TDI pays 58% of your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week. Benefits are paid for up to 26 weeks. The exact amount depends on your average weekly pay.
Yes, a medical provider must certify your disability for Hawaii TDI. This is required for all claims. Make sure your doctor completes the necessary forms.
If your TDI claim is denied, you have 20 calendar days from the mailing date of the denial notice to appeal. Submit your appeal to the Division of Disability Compensation in Honolulu or your nearest Department of Labor and Industrial Relations District Office.
Yes, you may be able to receive both Hawaii TDI and federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI. Rules vary, so check with Social Security and your employer or insurance carrier for details.
No, job protection is not included in Hawaii TDI. However, you may qualify for leave under federal or state laws like FMLA or Hawaii Family Leave Law.
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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Contact the Hawaii Department of Human Services for application forms and eligibility requirements. Medicaid waivers can help with long-term care needs for people with arthritis.
ABLE accounts let people with arthritis save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. You can use ABLE funds for qualified disability expenses like medical care, housing, and education.
Yes, report any changes in your income, living situation, or medical condition to avoid overpayments. For more details, see the [Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide](/guides/overpayments-and-reporting).
Contact the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations or your local Social Security office for help applying for disability benefits. You can also visit the [All benefits in your state](/benefits/hawaii) page for more resources.
