People with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome in Hawaii can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Hawaii’s Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI). These programs help cover medical costs, provide income support, and offer job protections. State-specific rules and application steps are outlined below.
People with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome may qualify for federal disability benefits if their condition severely limits their ability to work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a strict definition of disability. To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources. Both programs require medical evidence showing your condition prevents you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. You can learn more about SSI vs SSDI and work incentives on our guides.
For more information, visit SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-1213.
In Hawaii, people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome may qualify for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if they cannot work due to their condition. TDI provides partial wage replacement for up to 26 weeks for non-work-related illnesses or injuries, including rare genetic disorders. To be eligible, you must have worked for at least 14 weeks and earned a minimum amount in covered employment. TDI is not a state-run program; employers must provide private insurance plans. Employees can receive up to 58% of their average weekly wage, with a maximum weekly benefit of $837 in 2025. There is no job protection under TDI, but other laws like the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) may apply.
For more details, visit the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website.
For more help, use our SSI Income Estimator and guides on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes.
For more information, visit SSA.gov, Medicaid.gov, and Medicare.gov.
For more details, visit the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations and Hawaii Employees' Retirement System websites.
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Hawaii, you can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE program. Contributions are limited to $18,000 per year, and the account can be used for qualified expenses like medical care, education, and housing. For more information, visit our ABLE Accounts guide.
Federal SSI has strict income and resource limits. In 2025, the federal SSI payment is $943 per month for an individual. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size. Hawaii Medicaid waivers may have different income and asset rules. For current limits, check the Hawaii Medicaid website or use our SSI Income Estimator tool.
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report any changes in income, employment, or medical status to avoid overpayments. If you get an overpayment notice, contact the agency to discuss repayment options. For more help, see our guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes.
Contact your local Social Security office or the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations for help with disability benefits applications and appeals.
Hawaii TDI provides partial wage replacement for up to 26 weeks if you cannot work due to a non-work-related illness or injury, including Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Employers must provide private insurance plans. Benefits are up to 58% of your average weekly wage, with a maximum of $837 per week in 2025.
Gather medical records and apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. Provide detailed documentation showing your condition prevents you from working for at least 12 months. SSA will review your application and may request more information.
Yes, if you have low income and meet other eligibility requirements. Medicaid provides health coverage and may include waivers for home and community-based services. Apply through the Hawaii Medicaid portal or local office.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can contribute up to $18,000 per year and use the funds for qualified expenses like medical care, education, and housing.
No, Hawaii TDI does not provide job protection. However, other laws like the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) may offer job protection if you qualify. Check with your employer or the Hawaii Department of Labor for more information.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Join thousands of families who trust Purple to protect their benefits
Purple is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by OMB Bank, Member FDIC.
You can receive Hawaii TDI benefits for up to 26 weeks for a single disability. If your condition lasts longer, you may need to apply for federal disability benefits or other programs.
If your employer does not offer TDI, you may contact the Disability Compensation Division for assistance. They can help you understand your rights and options for disability benefits in Hawaii.
Yes, you can receive both SSI and Hawaii TDI if you meet the eligibility requirements for each program. SSI is based on financial need, while TDI is based on employment and disability.
If your disability claim is denied, you have 20 days to appeal. Submit your appeal with evidence like pay slips or check stubs to the Disability Compensation Division. They will schedule a hearing with an impartial referee.
The maximum weekly benefit for Hawaii TDI in 2025 is $837. You can receive up to 58% of your average weekly wage, but not more than the maximum.
