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Hawaii • Neurological/Developmental
People with Down Syndrome in Hawaii can access federal and state benefits, including SSI/SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. State-specific programs like Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) and disability retirement may also apply. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
People with Down Syndrome in Hawaii may qualify for federal benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSI is for those with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid into Social Security. Both programs require a medical determination of disability. Children with Down Syndrome may qualify for SSI if family income and assets are within limits. Adults may qualify for SSI or SSDI based on their own work history or family situation. These programs provide monthly cash payments and may include Medicaid or Medicare coverage.
For SSI, the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses strict income and asset limits. SSDI eligibility is based on work credits and medical criteria. Both programs require regular reporting of changes in income, living situation, or health status to avoid overpayments.
In Hawaii, people with Down Syndrome may also qualify for state-specific programs. The Hawaii Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) program provides partial wage replacement for non-work-related disabilities, including Down Syndrome, if the person is employed and meets eligibility requirements. TDI benefits are up to 58% of average weekly wages, with a maximum of $837 per week in 2025. Employees must have at least 14 weeks of employment to qualify.
Hawaii also offers Medicaid waivers for people with developmental disabilities, which can help pay for long-term care, therapy, and support services. The state’s disability retirement program may be available for public employees who become disabled and can no longer work.
Eligibility for state programs depends on income, assets, and medical need. Some programs require proof of Hawaii residency and U.S. citizenship or qualified immigration status.
Learn more about Medicaid vs Medicare
Learn more about ABLE Accounts
Hawaii offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities, including Down Syndrome. These accounts allow tax-free savings for disability-related expenses like education, housing, transportation, and health care. To open an account, you must have a qualifying disability and meet the program’s requirements. Contributions are limited to $18,000 per year (2025), and the account balance does not affect SSI eligibility up to $100,000.
Learn more about ABLE Accounts
Federal SSI has strict income and asset limits. In 2025, the federal SSI income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Hawaii may have higher limits for some programs. Medicaid and ABLE accounts also have income and asset limits. Always report changes in income or assets to avoid overpayments.
Learn more about SSI Income Estimator
It is important to report any changes in income, living situation, or health status to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in fines or loss of benefits. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact the agency immediately to discuss repayment options.
Contact your local Social Security office or the Hawaii Department of Health for help with applications and eligibility questions.
The maximum weekly TDI benefit in Hawaii for 2025 is $837. This is 58% of average weekly wages, up to the maximum. Employees must have at least 14 weeks of employment to qualify.
Yes, people with Down Syndrome in Hawaii may qualify for Medicaid if they meet income and asset limits. Medicaid can help pay for health care, therapy, and support services.
You can apply for SSI/SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local SSA office. You will need to provide medical evidence of Down Syndrome and how it affects daily life.
A Medicaid waiver in Hawaii helps pay for long-term care, therapy, and support services for people with developmental disabilities. You may need to be on a waiting list to receive waiver services.
Yes, Hawaii offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities, including Down Syndrome. These accounts allow tax-free savings for disability-related expenses like education, housing, and health care.
Hawaii’s disability retirement program is for public employees who become disabled and can no longer work. You must provide medical documentation to qualify.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Report changes in income or assets to the agency that provides your benefits. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits current.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid into Social Security. Both programs provide monthly cash payments and may include Medicaid or Medicare coverage.
Yes, if you qualify for SSI in Hawaii, you may automatically qualify for Medicaid. Medicaid can help pay for health care, therapy, and support services.
The federal SSI income limit for 2025 is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Hawaii may have higher limits for some programs.
