Multiple Sclerosis Benefits in Hawaii

To qualify for federal programs, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability, which for Multiple Sclerosis means your condition must prevent you from working for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death. SSI is based on financial need, while SSDI requires enough work credits. Medicaid eligibility is often linked to SSI, or you may qualify based on income and disability status. Medicare is available after 24 months of SSDI, or earlier if you have ALS. Always report changes in your work, living situation, or income to avoid overpayments or loss of benefits.

In Hawaii, Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) is available if you have at least 14 weeks of employment in Hawaii, working 20+ hours each week[4]. TDI is funded by employers, not the state, and provides up to 26 weeks of partial wage replacement for non-work-related illnesses like MS[1][2]. There is no state-run short-term disability program—coverage is through private employer plans. For public employees, the Hawaii Employees’ Retirement System offers disability retirement benefits for those unable to work due to disability[7]. Medicaid eligibility follows federal guidelines, but Hawaii may have additional waivers or programs for home and community-based services.

To apply for TDI in Hawaii: notify your employer and submit a claim within 90 days of your disability start date—delays can reduce or cancel benefits[4]. For SSI/SSDI, apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. For Medicaid, apply online through the Hawaii Medicaid portal or your local Department of Human Services office. For disability retirement (public employees), contact the Hawaii Employees’ Retirement System[7].

TDI Claims:

• Report your MS-related disability to your employer as soon as possible.
• Complete and submit a TDI claim form within 90 days of becoming disabled—miss this window and you may lose benefits[4].
• If your claim is denied, you have 20 days to appeal by explaining your disagreement and submitting evidence[4].

SSI/SSDI:

• Gather medical records, work history, and financial documents.
• Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone (800-772-1213), or at a local Social Security office.
• Check the status of your application and respond quickly to any requests for more information.

Medicaid:

• Apply online at medquest.hawaii.gov or visit a local office.
• Provide proof of income, residency, and disability.
• Ask about Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services if you need help living independently.

Medicare:

• You’re automatically enrolled after 24 months of receiving SSDI benefits.
• If you have ALS, you may qualify immediately.

Disability Retirement (Public Employees):

• Contact the Hawaii Employees’ Retirement System for forms and instructions[7].
• Submit medical documentation and your application as directed.

SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Provides monthly cash assistance to low-income individuals with disabilities, including those with Multiple Sclerosis. Eligibility is based on financial need and disability status.

SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): Offers monthly benefits if you have a work history and paid Social Security taxes. You must meet the SSA’s disability criteria.

Medicaid: Covers health care for low-income individuals, including many with disabilities. In Hawaii, Medicaid is administered through Med-QUEST.

Medicare: Federal health insurance for people who have received SSDI for 24 months or have certain conditions like ALS.

Hawaii Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI): Provides partial wage replacement for up to 26 weeks if you can’t work due to a non-work-related illness or injury, including MS. Employers fund the benefit through private plans—there is no state-run program[1][2][6]. In 2025, benefits are up to 58% of your average weekly wage, maxing at $837 per week, after a 7-day waiting period[2][6]. You must have worked at least 14 weeks (20+ hours/week) in Hawaii to qualify[4].

Hawaii Employees’ Retirement System (ERS): State and county employees may qualify for disability retirement benefits if they can no longer work due to disability[7].

Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Hawaii offers Home and Community-Based Services waivers that can help people with MS live independently by covering personal care, respite, and other supports. Eligibility and services vary—contact Med-QUEST for details.

ABLE Accounts: If you became disabled before age 26, you can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. These accounts let you save up to $100,000 without impacting SSI asset limits. For details, see our ABLE Accounts guide.

Income Limits: SSI has strict income and asset limits. In 2025, the federal benefit rate is $943/month for an individual, but amounts may be lower based on living arrangements and other income. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size—Hawaii’s Med-QUEST portal has current figures. TDI benefits are based on your pre-disability wages, up to $837/week in 2025[2][6].

Avoiding Overpayments: Always report changes in your income, living situation, or work status to SSA and Medicaid. Overpayments can lead to benefit reductions or repayment demands. For guidance, see our Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide.

• Hawaii Disability Compensation Division
  Phone: 808-586-9166

  Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM HST, Mon–Fri

  Website

  For TDI questions, claims, and appeals.
• Hawaii Employees’ Retirement System
  Phone: 808-586-0400

  Hours: 7:45 AM – 4:30 PM HST, Mon–Fri

  Website

  For public employee disability retirement.
• Med-QUEST (Hawaii Medicaid)
  Phone: 800-316-8005

  Website

  For Medicaid applications and questions.
• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 800-772-1213

  TTY: 800-325-0778

  Website

  For SSI, SSDI, and Medicare.

• How long can I receive TDI benefits in Hawaii?

  You can receive TDI benefits for up to 26 weeks if you qualify, but the program is only for temporary disabilities. If you need longer-term support, apply for SSDI or SSI[1][2].

• Do I have job protection while on TDI leave?

  TDI in Hawaii does not provide job protection. However, you may be protected under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or Hawaii Family Leave Law if you qualify[2].

• Can I get both SSDI and TDI at the same time?

  Yes, but SSDI benefits may be offset if you also receive TDI. Always report all income to avoid overpayments[2].

• Is there a waiting period for TDI benefits?

  Yes, there is a 7-day non-payable waiting period. Benefits begin on the 8th day of your disability[6].

• What are Medicaid waivers, and how can they help someone with MS?

  Medicaid waivers offer home and community-based services such as personal care, respite, and more. These can help people with MS live independently. Learn more by contacting Med-QUEST.

• How do I appeal if my TDI claim is denied?

  You have 20 calendar days from the denial notice to appeal. Explain why you disagree with the decision and where needed, submit proof of your wages and disability. Contact the Disability Compensation Division for assistance[4].

• What is the maximum TDI benefit in Hawaii for 2025?