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Hawaii • Chronic Illness
People with HIV/AIDS in Hawaii can access disability benefits, Medicaid, and other support programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
People with HIV/AIDS may qualify for federal disability benefits if their condition meets Social Security Administration (SSA) criteria. To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical evidence showing your HIV/AIDS limits your ability to work. You must also meet income and asset limits for SSI. For more details, visit the SSA website.
Citations: SSA POMS: DI 52135.070 (2025-11-05)
In Hawaii, people with HIV/AIDS may qualify for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if they are unable to work due to their condition. To be eligible, you must have at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment, with at least 20 hours paid each week. TDI covers up to 26 weeks of paid leave for non-work-related illnesses. The benefit is 58% of your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week in 2025. Employers must provide private TDI plans; the state does not administer benefits directly. You must file a claim within 90 days of your disability to avoid losing benefits.
Citations: Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, About TDI (2025-11-05), Hawaii TDI Bulletin 2025 (2025-11-05)
Citations: Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, About TDI (2025-11-05), SSA POMS: DI 52135.070 (2025-11-05)
Learn more about Medicaid vs Medicare
Citations: SSA POMS: DI 52135.070 (2025-11-05)
Citations: Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, About TDI (2025-11-05), Hawaii Employees' Retirement System, Disability (2025-11-05)
ABLE accounts allow people with HIV/AIDS to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. You can use ABLE funds for qualified disability expenses, such as medical care, education, and housing. In Hawaii, you can open an ABLE account through the national ABLE program. Contributions are limited to $18,000 per year in 2025. Earnings grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free.
Learn more about ABLE Accounts
Citations: SSA POMS: DI 52135.070 (2025-11-05)
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 per month for a couple. For Medicaid in Hawaii, income limits vary by household size and program. For example, a single person may qualify with an income up to 138% of the federal poverty level. For TDI, there is no income limit, but benefits are based on your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week in 2025.
Citations: SSA POMS: DI 52135.070 (2025-11-05)
If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to the SSA or Medicaid agency. Failure to report changes can result in penalties or loss of benefits. For TDI, report any changes to your employer or insurance carrier. For SSI/SSDI, use the SSA online portal or call your local office.
Learn more about Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes
Citations: SSA POMS: DI 52135.070 (2025-11-05)
To avoid losing benefits, file your TDI claim within 90 days of your disability. Late claims may result in partial or complete loss of benefits.
Keep copies of all medical documentation, claim forms, and correspondence. This will help if you need to appeal a denial or report changes.
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 HIV/AIDS. Employers must provide private plans; the state does not administer benefits directly.
In 2025, you can receive 58% of your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week. The amount depends on your earnings and the length of your disability.
To be eligible, you must have at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment, with at least 20 hours paid each week. You must also have a non-work-related illness or injury, such as HIV/AIDS.
File a claim with your employer or their TDI insurance carrier within 90 days of your disability. Provide medical documentation and complete any required forms, such as Form TDI-46.
Yes, you can receive both TDI and federal benefits like SSI/SSDI. However, your total benefits may be reduced if they exceed certain limits. Report all benefits to the SSA.
If your claim is denied, you can appeal. Submit your appeal to the Disability Compensation Division in Honolulu or your nearest Department of Labor and Industrial Relations District Office within 20 days of the denial notice.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult official state and federal agencies for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
No, Hawaii does not have a state-administered disability program. Employers must provide private TDI plans for their employees.
You can receive TDI benefits for up to 26 weeks for a single disability. If your condition continues, you may need to reapply or seek other benefits.
You need documentation from your healthcare provider that includes your HIV/AIDS diagnosis and how it affects your ability to work. This may include lab results, treatment plans, and physician statements.
Yes, you can open an ABLE account if you have HIV/AIDS. ABLE accounts allow you to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Contributions are limited to $18,000 per year in 2025.
