If you have Rheumatoid Arthritis in Hawaii, you may qualify for state and federal disability programs. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply step by step, Hawaii-specific programs, income limits, and where to get help with your application.
To qualify for federal benefits like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must meet strict criteria. SSDI is for people with a work history and enough Social Security credits. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require proof of a severe, long-term disability that prevents substantial work. See "SSI vs SSDI" for more.
Hawaii offers Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) for employees unable to work due to non-work-related illness, including Rheumatoid Arthritis. To qualify, you must have worked at least 14 weeks in Hawaii, with 20+ hours per week[4]. The state does not administer benefits directly—employers must provide coverage through a private plan. Benefits are 58% of your average weekly wage, up to $837/week in 2025[1][3]. There is no separate state program for long-term disability; see "All benefits in your state" for more options.
For Hawaii TDI:
For SSI/SSDI:
For Medicaid:
Tips:
SSDI provides monthly cash benefits if you have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI offers financial help if you have limited income and resources. Both require your Rheumatoid Arthritis to meet federal disability criteria. Medicare is available after 24 months of SSDI eligibility. Medicaid may cover low-income individuals, including those receiving SSI. Check "SSI vs SSDI" for details.
Hawaii Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) replaces part of your income for up to 26 weeks if you can’t work due to non-work-related illness, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis[2][3]. Employers must provide coverage through private plans—ask your HR department for details. Benefits start after seven days of disability (the first week is unpaid waiting period)[5]. There is no state-run long-term disability program; instead, the State Employees’ Retirement System (ERS) administers disability retirement for public employees[6]. For long-term help, rely on SSDI or SSI. For home and community-based services, Medicaid waivers may be available.
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities (including Rheumatoid Arthritis) save up to $100,000 without affecting SSI eligibility. Earnings grow tax-free. To qualify, your disability must have started before age 26. These accounts can help pay for housing, education, transportation, and more. See our "ABLE Accounts" guide for details.
SSI has strict income and asset limits—$943/month for individuals and $1,415/month for couples in 2024. SSDI has no income limits, but you can’t engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA). Hawaii TDI pays up to 58% of your average wage, with a 2025 max of $837/week[1][3]. Medicaid also has income limits—check with the Department of Human Services.
Always report changes in income, work status, or health to Social Security and Medicaid. Failing to report can lead to overpayments, which you may have to repay. For TDI, report if you return to work or your condition improves. See "Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes" for tips and steps.
Hawaii law requires all employers to provide Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), but coverage is through private plans, not a state-run program. If you’re unable to work due to Rheumatoid Arthritis, immediately contact your HR department to start a TDI claim[2][5].
Hawaii does not operate a state long-term disability program for private employees. For long-term support, apply for SSDI, SSI, or, if a public employee, the Hawaii Employees’ Retirement System disability retirement program[6].
If your TDI, SSI, or SSDI claim is denied, don’t give up. Both TDI and federal disability programs have appeal processes. File an appeal as soon as possible—deadlines matter[4].
Hawaii TDI pays up to 58% of your average weekly wage, with a maximum of $837/week in 2025, for up to 26 weeks[1][3]. Benefits begin after a seven-day unpaid waiting period.
No, Hawaii TDI benefits are paid through private plans provided by employers—the state does not administer benefits directly[2][5].
Yes, you can apply for both. SSI/SSDI are federal programs and do not affect your state TDI eligibility. However, you must meet each program’s rules.
Employers in Hawaii are required by law to have a TDI policy. If your employer doesn’t, contact the Disability Compensation Division for help[4].
After filing your claim, processing times vary. Report your disability immediately and submit all medical documentation to avoid delays.
No, but if you are working and earning above the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit ($1,550/month in 2025), you are not eligible for SSDI.
Yes, but only after a 24-month waiting period unless you qualify for disability Medicaid under separate rules. Check "Medicaid vs Medicare" 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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You can appeal, usually within 60 days. Provide additional medical evidence or consider getting legal help.
Hawaii does not have an Arthritis-specific Medicaid waiver, but you may be eligible for Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers through Medicaid if you meet certain needs-based criteria.
TDI is for when you cannot work due to your condition. SSDI allows some work ("work incentives"), but you cannot earn above the SGA limit without risking benefits. See "SSI & SSDI Work Incentives" for more.
