People with dyslexia in Hawaii may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and workplace accommodations. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
Dyslexia is a learning disability that may qualify for federal benefits if it severely limits your ability to work or perform daily activities. To qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must provide medical evidence showing that your dyslexia causes significant functional limitations. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs require a formal application and review process.
For children, SSI may be available if dyslexia causes marked or severe functional limitations. Adults must show that dyslexia prevents them from doing substantial gainful activity. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses specific criteria to evaluate learning disabilities, including documentation from doctors, schools, and other professionals.
If you qualify, you may also be eligible for Medicaid, Medicare, and work incentives that help you keep benefits while working.
In Hawaii, people with dyslexia may qualify for state-specific programs such as Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can provide support for education, therapy, and daily living. To qualify, you must meet both federal and state eligibility requirements, including income and functional limitations. Hawaii also offers Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), which provides partial wage replacement if dyslexia causes a non-work-related disability that prevents you from working. Eligibility for TDI requires at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment, with 20 hours or more paid per week, and a claim must be filed within 90 days of disability.
Hawaii’s Department of Labor and Industrial Relations oversees TDI and provides guidance on eligibility and claims. Employers must comply with state requirements, and private plans are available for businesses. State-specific resources include the Disability Compensation Division and the Department of Health, which can help you navigate eligibility and application processes.
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. In Hawaii, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Contributions are limited to $18,000 per year, and funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses.
SSI has strict income and resource limits. In 2025, the federal SSI payment is $943 per month for an individual, with additional state supplements in Hawaii. SSDI payments vary based on your work history. Medicaid eligibility depends on income, resources, and functional limitations. ABLE accounts have annual contribution limits of $18,000 and lifetime limits based on your state’s 529 plan.
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and Medicaid to avoid overpayments. You can appeal an overpayment decision if you believe it is incorrect. Keep records of all payments and changes to help resolve disputes.
Contact your local Social Security office or the Hawaii Department of Health for help with applications and appeals. Disability advocacy organizations can also provide support.
Yes, dyslexia can qualify for SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid waivers in Hawaii if it causes significant functional limitations. You must provide medical and educational documentation to support your claim.
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. Provide medical records, school reports, and other documentation showing how dyslexia affects your daily life.
TDI provides partial wage replacement if dyslexia causes a non-work-related disability that prevents you from working. You must have at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment and file a claim within 90 days of disability.
Yes, Hawaii offers Medicaid waivers for children and adults with learning disabilities, including dyslexia. These waivers provide support for education, therapy, and daily living.
Request accommodations under the ADA from your employer or HR department. Employers must provide reasonable accommodations unless it causes undue hardship.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses.
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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SSI has strict income and resource limits. In 2025, the federal SSI payment is $943 per month for an individual, with additional state supplements in Hawaii. SSDI payments vary based on your work history.
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and Medicaid. Keep records of all payments and changes to help resolve disputes.
Yes, work incentives help you keep benefits while working. Programs like Ticket to Work and PASS can help you achieve self-support without losing SSI or Medicaid.
Contact Social Security, the Hawaii Department of Health, the Disability Compensation Division, or a local disability advocacy organization for help with applications and appeals.
