Diabetes Benefits in Hawaii: A Complete Guide

People with diabetes may qualify for federal disability benefits if their condition limits their ability to work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for eligible individuals. To qualify, applicants must meet medical criteria and income/resource limits. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs require a medical review to confirm disability status.

For more information, visit the SSA website or contact your local SSA office. You can also use the SSI Income Estimator tool to check your eligibility.

Citations: SSA - POMS: DI 52135.070 (2025-11-05)

In Hawaii, people with diabetes may be eligible for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if their condition causes a non-work-related disability. To qualify, employees must have at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment, with at least 20 hours paid per week during each week. The TDI program provides up to 58% of average weekly wages, with a maximum of $837 per week in 2025. The benefit can be paid for up to 26 weeks.

Claims must be filed within 90 days of disability to avoid loss of benefits. If a claim is denied, employees have 20 days to appeal. Employers must provide TDI coverage or allow employees to purchase it directly.

Citations: Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations - About TDI (2025-11-05), NFP - 2025 Hawaii TDI Weekly Maximum Benefits (2025-11-05)

• Check if you meet Hawaii TDI eligibility (14 weeks of employment, 20+ hours/week).
• File a TDI claim within 90 days of disability.
• Gather medical records and employment proof.
• Submit claim to your employer or insurance carrier.
• For federal benefits, apply online at SSA.gov or visit your local SSA office.

• Step 1: Confirm eligibility for Hawaii TDI. You must have at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment, with at least 20 hours paid per week during each week.
• Step 2: File a TDI claim within 90 days of disability. Use Form TDI-46, available from your employer or the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.
• Step 3: Gather required documents, including medical records, employment verification, and pay stubs.
• Step 4: Submit your claim to your employer or insurance carrier. If your employer does not have a TDI policy, contact the Investigation Section in Honolulu or the nearest Department of Labor and Industrial Relations District Office.
• Step 5: Wait for a decision. If your claim is denied, you have 20 days to appeal.
• Step 6: For federal benefits (SSI/SSDI), apply online at SSA.gov or visit your local SSA office. You may need to provide additional medical and financial information.
• Step 7: For Medicaid waivers, contact the Hawaii Department of Human Services.
• Step 8: For ABLE accounts, visit the Hawaii ABLE program website.

Citations: Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations - About TDI (2025-11-05), SSA - POMS: DI 52135.070 (2025-11-05)

Federal programs for people with diabetes in Hawaii include:

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Provides monthly payments to people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older.
• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Provides monthly payments to people who are disabled and have a work history.
• Medicare: Health insurance for people with disabilities, including those with diabetes.
• Medicaid: Health coverage for low-income individuals, including those with disabilities.

For more information, visit SSA.gov or contact your local SSA office.

Citations: SSA - POMS: DI 52135.070 (2025-11-05)

Hawaii offers several programs for people with diabetes:

• Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI): Provides up to 58% of average weekly wages, with a maximum of $837 per week in 2025, for up to 26 weeks. Eligible employees must have at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment, with at least 20 hours paid per week during each week.
• Medicaid Waivers: Provide additional support for people with disabilities, including those with diabetes. Contact the Hawaii Department of Human Services for more information.
• ABLE Accounts: Allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for federal benefits. Visit the Hawaii ABLE program website for details.
• Disability Retirement: If you are no longer able to work due to diabetes, you may qualify for a disability retirement benefit through the Hawaii Employees' Retirement System.

Citations: Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations - About TDI (2025-11-05), NFP - 2025 Hawaii TDI Weekly Maximum Benefits (2025-11-05), Hawaii Employees' Retirement System - Disability (2025-11-05)

ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for federal benefits. In Hawaii, you can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. Contributions are limited, and funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, including medical care, education, and housing.

For more information, visit the Hawaii ABLE program website.

Citations: Hawaii ABLE Program (2025-11-05)

Income limits for disability benefits in Hawaii vary by program. For TDI, benefits are based on average weekly wages, with a maximum of $837 per week in 2025. For SSI, income and resource limits apply. For Medicaid, income limits depend on household size and other factors.

Citations: NFP - 2025 Hawaii TDI Weekly Maximum Benefits (2025-11-05), SSA - POMS: DI 52135.070 (2025-11-05)

If you receive disability benefits, you must report changes in income, employment, or medical status to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment or loss of benefits. For more information, see the guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes.

Citations: SSA - POMS: DI 52135.070 (2025-11-05)

• Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations
  Phone: 808-586-8811

  Email: [email protected]

  Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM

  Website

  For TDI and disability compensation questions.
• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

  Website

  For SSI/SSDI questions.

• What is Hawaii Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI)?

  Hawaii TDI provides partial wage replacement for employees who cannot work due to non-work-related disabilities, including diabetes complications. Benefits are up to 58% of average weekly wages, with a maximum of $837 per week in 2025.

• How do I qualify for TDI in Hawaii?

  To qualify for TDI, you must have at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment, with at least 20 hours paid per week during each week. You must also file a claim within 90 days of disability.

• Can I get Medicaid if I have diabetes in Hawaii?

  Yes, people with diabetes may qualify for Medicaid in Hawaii if they meet income and resource limits. Medicaid can help cover medical costs, including diabetes care.

• What is an ABLE account, and can I open one in Hawaii?

  An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for federal benefits. Hawaii residents can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses.

• How do I apply for SSI or SSDI in Hawaii?

  You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at SSA.gov or at your local SSA office. You will need to provide medical and financial information to support your application.

• What if my TDI claim is denied?

  If your TDI claim is denied, you have 20 days to appeal. Submit your appeal to the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations with evidence supporting your claim.