People with intellectual disability in Hawaii can access state and federal benefits, including disability insurance, Medicaid waivers, and work incentives. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and important resources.
People with intellectual disability in Hawaii may qualify for federal programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI helps low-income individuals with disabilities, including children and adults. Both programs require a medical determination of disability and may provide monthly cash payments and access to Medicaid or Medicare.
To qualify for SSDI, you must have a disability that prevents substantial work and meet work credit requirements. SSI eligibility is based on limited income and resources. Both programs have strict rules about work and reporting changes.
For more details, visit the Social Security Administration (SSA) website or call 1-800-772-1213.
In Hawaii, people with intellectual disability may qualify for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if they meet employment requirements. To be eligible, you must have worked at least 14 weeks in Hawaii, with 20 or more hours each week, and earned at least $300 in wages subject to TDI contributions. TDI covers non-work-related disabilities, including intellectual disability, and provides partial wage replacement for up to 26 weeks.
Benefits are 58% of your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week in 2025. Job protection is not included in TDI, but federal or state laws like the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or Hawaii Family Leave Law may provide it. Private plans may have different rules.
For more information, contact the Hawaii Disability Compensation Division or visit their website.
Federal programs for people with intellectual disability in Hawaii include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI provides monthly payments to those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI helps low-income individuals with disabilities, including children and adults. Both programs may provide access to Medicaid or Medicare and have work incentives to help people return to work.
Other federal programs include Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, ABLE accounts for saving without losing benefits, and work incentives to help people with disabilities work and keep their benefits.
Hawaii offers Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) for non-work-related disabilities, including intellectual disability. TDI provides partial wage replacement for up to 26 weeks, with benefits up to 58% of average weekly wage, max $837/week in 2025. Eligibility requires at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment with 20+ hours each week and $300 in wages subject to TDI contributions.
Hawaii also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, ABLE accounts for saving, and work incentives. The Hawaii Employees' Retirement System may provide disability retirement benefits for state employees.
For more information, contact the Hawaii Disability Compensation Division or visit their website.
Hawaii residents with intellectual disability can open an ABLE account to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. ABLE accounts allow tax-free savings for disability-related expenses. Contributions do not count as income for SSI or Medicaid, up to certain limits. For more information, visit the ABLE National Resource Center or contact your local ABLE program.
Income limits for Hawaii disability benefits vary by program. For TDI, you must have earned at least $300 in wages subject to TDI contributions. For SSI, income and resource limits are strict and change yearly. For Medicaid waivers, income and resource limits depend on the specific waiver program. Always report changes in income to avoid overpayments.
If you receive too much in disability benefits, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report changes in income, work, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you get an overpayment notice, contact the agency to discuss repayment options. For more information, see the guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes.
File your Hawaii TDI claim within 90 days of your disability start date to avoid losing benefits.
Hawaii TDI does not provide job protection. Check if you qualify for job protection under federal or state laws.
Hawaii TDI provides partial wage replacement for up to 26 weeks if you cannot work due to a non-work-related disability, including intellectual disability. Benefits are up to 58% of your average weekly wage, max $837/week in 2025.
To qualify for Hawaii TDI, you must have worked at least 14 weeks in Hawaii with 20+ hours each week and earned $300 in wages subject to TDI contributions. You must also have a non-work-related disability.
To apply for Hawaii TDI, file a claim within 90 days of your disability start date. Submit required forms and medical certification to your employer or insurance carrier. Follow up on your claim status and appeal if denied.
Hawaii TDI does not provide job protection. However, federal or state laws like the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or Hawaii Family Leave Law may provide job protection for eligible employees.
In 2025, the maximum weekly benefit for Hawaii TDI is $837. This is 58% of your average weekly wage, up to the maximum.
Yes, you may be able to receive both federal Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Hawaii TDI benefits, but rules vary by state. Check with the Social Security Administration and Hawaii Disability Compensation Division for details.
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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Medicaid waivers in Hawaii provide home and community-based services for people with intellectual disability. These waivers help people live in the community instead of institutions. Eligibility depends on income, resources, and disability level.
To open an ABLE account in Hawaii, visit the ABLE National Resource Center or contact your local ABLE program. ABLE accounts allow tax-free savings for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
Hawaii TDI has a 7-day non-payable waiting period. Benefits usually start on the 8th day of disability.
If your Hawaii TDI claim is denied, you have 20 days to appeal. Explain why you disagree and submit evidence like pay slips or check stubs. The Disability Compensation Division will review your appeal.
