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Hawaii • Sensory
People with low vision in Hawaii can access disability benefits, including state Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) and federal programs. TDI provides up to 26 weeks of partial wage replacement for non-work-related disabilities. Federal programs like SSI and SSDI offer additional support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
People with low vision in Hawaii may qualify for federal disability programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSI helps those with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs require a medical determination of disability, which includes meeting specific vision criteria set by the Social Security Administration. Eligibility also depends on income, assets, and work history. For more details, visit the SSA website or use the SSI Income Estimator tool.
For more information, see the SSI vs SSDI guide and the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide.
In Hawaii, people with low vision may qualify for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if they meet employment and wage requirements. To be eligible for TDI, you must have at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment, each with 20 or more hours paid. TDI covers non-work-related disabilities, including those caused by low vision. The benefit is 58% of your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week in 2025. TDI benefits can be paid for up to 26 weeks.
For more details, see the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website.
For more information, see the SSI vs SSDI guide, Medicaid vs Medicare guide, and Medicaid Waivers (HCBS) guide.
For more information, see the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website and the Medicaid Waivers (HCBS) guide.
ABLE accounts allow people with low vision in Hawaii to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Contributions are tax-free, and funds can be used for qualified disability expenses. To open an account, visit the official ABLE website or contact your financial institution. For more details, see the ABLE Accounts guide.
Federal SSI and SSDI programs have strict income and asset limits. SSI is for people with low income and resources, while SSDI is based on work history and earnings. Hawaii TDI benefits are based on your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week in 2025. Medicaid and Medicaid waivers also have income and asset requirements. For more information, see the SSI Income Estimator tool.
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report any changes in your income, employment, or living situation to avoid overpayments. For more information, see the Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide.
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.
If your TDI claim is denied, you can appeal within 20 days of the denial notice. Provide evidence like pay slips or check stubs to support your case.
Hawaii TDI provides partial wage replacement for up to 26 weeks if you can't work due to a non-work-related disability, including low vision. The benefit is 58% of your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week in 2025. Employers must provide TDI coverage or use a private plan.
To be eligible for Hawaii TDI, you must have at least 14 weeks of Hawaii employment, each with 20 or more hours paid. The disability must be non-work-related. TDI covers conditions like low vision that prevent you from working.
Notify your employer or HR about your disability. File a claim with your employer or insurer within 90 days of your disability. Provide medical documentation from your doctor confirming your low vision and its impact on your ability to work.
The maximum weekly benefit for Hawaii TDI in 2025 is $837. This is 58% of your average weekly wage, up to the maximum. Benefits can be paid for up to 26 weeks.
Yes, you can receive both federal SSI/SSDI and Hawaii TDI benefits if you meet the eligibility requirements for each program. Federal benefits are based on income and work history, while TDI is based on your average weekly wage.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities, including those with low vision. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses without affecting eligibility for SSI or Medicaid.
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.
If your TDI claim is denied, you can appeal within 20 days of the denial notice. Explain why you disagree on the notice and send two copies to the Disability Compensation Division in Honolulu or the nearest Department of Labor and Industrial Relations District Office.
You must file a TDI claim within 90 days of your disability. If you file after 90 days, you may lose part or all of your benefits unless you can show good cause. If you file more than 26 weeks after your disability, you will not be entitled to any benefits.
Hawaii TDI does not provide job protection. However, job protection may be available through other federal or state laws, such as the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or the Hawaii Family Leave Law.
In addition to TDI, people with low vision in Hawaii can access federal SSI/SSDI, Medicaid waivers, ABLE accounts, and vocational rehabilitation services. These programs provide financial, healthcare, and employment support.
