People in Hawaii with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can get help from federal and state programs. These include disability insurance, Medicaid waivers, and Social Security benefits. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get support.
People with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in Hawaii may qualify for federal disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two main programs: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSI is for low-income individuals with limited resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. To qualify, your TBI must meet SSA’s medical criteria and prevent you from working. Both programs require a medical review and proof of disability. You can learn more about SSI vs SSDI and work incentives on the SSA website[citation:8].
In Hawaii, workers with a traumatic brain injury may be eligible for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI). To qualify, you must have worked at least 14 weeks in Hawaii, with at least 20 hours paid each week. TDI covers non-work-related injuries, including TBI, and pays up to 58% of your average weekly wage, with a maximum of $837 per week in 2025. Benefits can last up to 26 weeks. Employers must provide TDI coverage through a private plan or insurance. You must file your claim within 90 days of your disability to avoid losing benefits[citation:1][citation:4][citation:5].
Federal programs for people with traumatic brain injury in Hawaii include:
For more details, visit SSA.gov or your local Social Security office[citation:8].
Hawaii offers several programs for people with traumatic brain injury:
For more details, visit the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations or your employer’s HR department[citation:1][citation:4][citation:5][citation:6].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. In Hawaii, you can open an ABLE account to pay for qualified disability expenses, like medical care, education, and housing. Contributions are limited each year, but the account grows tax-free. Learn more about Hawaii ABLE accounts and how to open one on the official ABLE website.
For Hawaii TDI, there is no strict income limit, but benefits are based on your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week in 2025. For federal SSI, the income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. SSDI has no income limit, but your earnings must be below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level to qualify. Medicaid income limits vary based on household size and program.
If you receive too much in disability benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report any changes in your income, work status, or living situation to avoid overpayments. For SSI and SSDI, report changes online or by phone. For Hawaii TDI, report changes to your employer or insurer. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes on the SSA website.
To avoid losing benefits, file your Hawaii TDI claim within 90 days of your disability. Keep copies of all paperwork and medical records.
If you need help with daily living, apply for Medicaid waivers. These can pay for home care, therapy, and other services.
Hawaii TDI provides partial wage replacement if you can’t work due to a non-work-related injury, like a traumatic brain injury. Benefits last up to 26 weeks and are based on your average weekly wage, up to $837 per week in 2025. Employers must provide TDI coverage through a private plan or insurance.
To qualify for Hawaii TDI, you must have worked at least 14 weeks in Hawaii, with at least 20 hours paid each week. Your injury must be non-work-related, and you must file your claim within 90 days of your disability. Medical documentation is required.
In 2025, Hawaii TDI pays up to 58% of your average weekly wage, with a maximum of $837 per week. The exact amount depends on your earnings. Benefits can last up to 26 weeks.
Yes, you can get both Hawaii TDI and federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI. TDI is for short-term disability, while SSI/SSDI are for long-term or permanent disability. You may need to report TDI benefits when applying for federal programs.
If your Hawaii TDI claim is denied, you have 20 days to appeal. Submit evidence like pay stubs or medical records. Contact your employer or insurer for help with the appeal process.
To apply for Medicaid waivers in Hawaii, contact your local Medicaid office or the Hawaii Department of Health. You’ll need to provide medical documentation and proof of income. Waivers can help pay for home care, therapy, and other services.
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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A Hawaii ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. You can use the account for qualified disability expenses, like medical care, education, and housing. Contributions are limited each year.
Yes, you must report changes in your income, work status, or living situation to avoid overpayments. For SSI and SSDI, report changes online or by phone. For Hawaii TDI, report changes to your employer or insurer.
Hawaii TDI does not provide job protection. However, you may be eligible for job protection under federal or state laws, like the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or the Hawaii Family Leave Law.
Benefits begin on the 8th day of illness or injury. The processing time for claims varies, but you should file your claim within 90 days of your disability to avoid delays.
