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Hawaii • Chronic Illness
People with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Hawaii may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These include Social Security programs, Hawaii’s Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), and Medicaid waivers. Each program has different eligibility rules and application steps.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a chronic illness that can qualify for federal disability benefits if it severely limits your ability to work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two main programs: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. To qualify, you must provide medical evidence showing your CFS symptoms prevent you from doing substantial work. The SSA reviews your medical records, work history, and daily activities to decide eligibility. If approved, you may receive monthly payments and access to Medicaid or Medicare.
For more details, see the SSA’s disability evaluation process and criteria for chronic illnesses.
In Hawaii, people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may qualify for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if they meet specific work requirements. To be eligible for TDI, you must have at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment, each with 20 or more hours paid. TDI covers non-work-related disabilities, including chronic illnesses like CFS, for up to 26 weeks. The benefit amount is 58% of your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week in 2025. Employers must offer TDI coverage, but the state does not directly pay benefits—private plans are used. You must file a claim within 90 days of your disability to avoid losing benefits. If your employer does not have a TDI plan, contact the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations for help.
Hawaii also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, which can provide additional support services.
Hawaii offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities, including Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. These accounts let you save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI or Medicaid. You can contribute up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit), and the account grows tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are also tax-free. To open an ABLE account, visit the Hawaii ABLE Program website or contact a participating financial institution.
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you must not be able to do substantial work. For Medicaid, income limits vary by program and household size. For ABLE accounts, you can contribute up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit).
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to the SSA or Hawaii Department of Human Services as soon as possible. Failure to report changes can result in penalties or loss of benefits. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact the agency to discuss repayment options.
If your employer does not have a TDI plan, contact the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations for assistance. They can help you file a claim and answer questions about eligibility.
Yes, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can qualify for federal and state disability benefits in Hawaii if it severely limits your ability to work. You must provide medical evidence and meet eligibility requirements for each program.
To apply for TDI, file a claim with your employer or insurer within 90 days of your disability. You must have at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment, each with 20 or more hours paid. If your employer does not have a TDI plan, contact the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.
The maximum TDI benefit in Hawaii for 2025 is $837 per week. This is 58% of your average weekly wage, up to the maximum.
You can receive TDI benefits in Hawaii for up to 26 weeks for a non-work-related disability like Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Yes, you may qualify for Medicaid in Hawaii if you have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and meet income and resource limits. Medicaid can provide health coverage and additional support services.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. It lets you save for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI or Medicaid.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about disability benefits in Hawaii. For specific advice, contact the relevant agencies or a qualified professional.
Yes, you must report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to the SSA or Hawaii Department of Human Services as soon as possible. Failure to report changes can result in penalties or loss of benefits.
If your TDI claim is denied, you can appeal within 20 days of receiving the denial notice. Submit evidence like pay slips or check stubs to support your appeal.
Yes, you may be able to work while receiving disability benefits, but there are limits on how much you can earn. Check with the SSA or Hawaii Department of Human Services for specific rules.
You can get help with your disability application from the SSA, Hawaii Department of Human Services, or a local disability advocacy organization. Contact the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations for TDI-related help.
