If you live in Hawaii and have chronic pain that limits your ability to work, you may qualify for state disability benefits and other support programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
People with chronic pain may qualify for federal disability programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or 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 your chronic pain prevents you from working. You can apply for both federal and state benefits at the same time, but rules vary by state.
For more information, visit the Social Security Administration’s website or call 1-800-772-1213.
In Hawaii, you can get Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if your chronic pain is not work-related and you can’t work for at least 7 days. To qualify, you must have worked at least 14 weeks in Hawaii, each with 20 or more hours paid. You must file your claim within 90 days of your disability. If you miss this deadline, you may lose some or all benefits. TDI does not provide job protection, but federal or state laws like the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) may offer some protection.
Private plans may also be available through your employer, but the state sets the maximum benefit and contribution rates. For more details, see the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website.
For more information, visit the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website or call 808-586-8600.
Federal programs for chronic pain in Hawaii include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for low-income individuals with limited resources. Both programs require medical proof that your chronic pain prevents you from working. You can apply for both federal and state benefits at the same time, but rules vary by state.
For more information, visit the Social Security Administration’s website or call 1-800-772-1213.
Hawaii’s Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) program provides partial wage replacement for non-work-related chronic pain. Benefits cover up to 58% of your average weekly wage, with a maximum of $837 per week in 2025. You can receive benefits for up to 26 weeks. The program is funded by employer or shared contributions. Employers may choose to fund the benefit on behalf of their employees.
To apply, file your claim with your employer or their insurance carrier within 90 days of your disability. For more information, visit the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website or call 808-586-8600.
ABLE accounts let people with chronic pain save money without losing eligibility for federal benefits like SSI or Medicaid. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses, including medical care, education, and housing. To open an account, visit the official ABLE website or contact your state’s ABLE program.
For more information, see the ABLE National Resource Center or call 1-800-772-1213.
Income limits for disability benefits in Hawaii depend on the program. For TDI, there is no income cap, but benefits are based on your average weekly wage. For SSI, the federal income limit is $914 per month for an individual in 2025. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you must not be able to do substantial gainful activity.
For more information, visit the Social Security Administration’s website or call 1-800-772-1213.
If you receive too much in disability benefits, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report any changes in your income, employment, or medical condition to avoid overpayments. If you get an overpayment notice, contact the agency right away to discuss repayment options.
For more information, see the Social Security Administration’s website or call 1-800-772-1213.
To avoid losing benefits, file your TDI claim within 90 days of your disability. Keep copies of all documents and communications.
Hawaii offers Medicaid waivers for people with chronic pain. These waivers help cover long-term care and support services. Contact the Hawaii Department of Human Services for more information.
Hawaii’s TDI program provides partial wage replacement for non-work-related chronic pain. Benefits cover up to 58% of your average weekly wage, with a maximum of $837 per week in 2025. You can receive benefits for up to 26 weeks.
To qualify, you must have worked at least 14 weeks in Hawaii, each with 20+ hours paid. You must file your claim within 90 days of your disability. Your doctor must certify your chronic pain and inability to work.
Yes, you can apply for both federal (SSDI/SSI) and state (TDI) benefits at the same time. However, rules vary by state, and you may not receive full benefits from both programs.
In 2025, the maximum TDI benefit in Hawaii is $837 per week. This is 58% of your average weekly wage, up to the maximum.
You can receive TDI benefits for up to 26 weeks in Hawaii. Benefits start on the 8th day of illness or injury.
TDI does not provide job protection, but federal or state laws like the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) may offer some protection. Check with your employer or the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.
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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If your TDI claim is denied, you have 20 days to appeal to the Disability Compensation Division. Submit your appeal with evidence like medical records and pay stubs.
Yes, Hawaii offers Medicaid waivers for people with chronic pain. These waivers help cover long-term care and support services. Contact the Hawaii Department of Human Services for more information.
ABLE accounts let people with chronic pain save money without losing eligibility for federal benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like medical care and housing.
Report any changes in your income, employment, or medical condition to the agency that pays your benefits. This helps avoid overpayments and ensures you get the right amount.
