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Hawaii • Rare/Genetic
People with Williams Syndrome in Hawaii may qualify for federal disability programs like SSI and SSDI, state Medicaid waivers, and local resources. Learn how to apply and maximize your benefits.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are open to all U.S. citizens and certain non-citizens. For SSI, your income and resources must be very low. For SSDI, you need a strong work history and enough work credits. Both require a disability that meets the Social Security Administration’s strict medical criteria. A diagnosis alone (like Williams Syndrome) does not automatically qualify you; you must show your condition significantly limits your ability to work for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. Children with Williams Syndrome may qualify if their condition causes ‘marked and severe functional limitations.’
Hawaii’s Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) covers employees with a non-work-related illness, injury, or pregnancy, providing up to 26 weeks of partial wage replacement. However, this is not a general disability benefit, and Williams Syndrome does not always qualify. To receive TDI, you must have worked at least 14 weeks in the past year, averaging 20 hours per week[4]. The state also provides Medicaid waivers for those who qualify, offering home and community-based services for individuals with disabilities. Hawaii does not have a state-administered general disability benefit for those who do not meet federal SSI/SSDI criteria.
Start by applying for federal benefits (SSI or SSDI) online at Social Security or by calling 1-800-772-1213. If you have a job and become temporarily disabled, contact your employer for Hawaii TDI forms. For Medicaid or waiver services, visit Med-QUEST, Hawaii’s Medicaid agency. Always apply as soon as possible to avoid missing deadlines or benefits.
For SSI/SSDI:
For Hawaii TDI:
For Medicaid and Waivers:
For all programs: Keep records of your applications, correspondence, and denials. Consider seeking help from a local disability advocate or legal aid organization.
SSI provides monthly payments to people with disabilities who have limited income and resources. SSDI offers benefits to those who have worked and paid into Social Security. Both programs require proof of disability, but SSI also has strict income and asset limits. Apply for both at ssa.gov. You may also be eligible for Medicare via SSDI or Medicaid via SSI, depending on your situation.
Hawaii Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI): Offers up to 26 weeks of partial wage replacement for non-work-related disabilities. Coverage depends on your work history and employer compliance. The state does not provide a general disability benefit, so most people with rare genetic disorders like Williams Syndrome rely on SSI/SSDI and Medicaid for ongoing support. Medicaid waivers (HCBS) can help you receive in-home services instead of institutional care. ABLE accounts let you save up to $18,000 per year for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid.
ABLE accounts allow individuals with disabilities (including Williams Syndrome) and their families to save for qualified expenses tax-free, without risking Medicaid or SSI eligibility. Hawaii residents can open an account through programs like the National ABLE Alliance. Earnings grow tax-free, and withdrawals for disability-related expenses are not taxed.
For SSI in Hawaii, the federal benefit rate for 2025 is $943/month for an individual, with strict income and resource limits. State TDI offers up to 58% of your average weekly wage, capped at $837/week in 2025[1][3]. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size—check with Med-QUEST for current figures.
Always report changes in your income, living situation, or disability to Social Security and Med-QUEST. If you get overpaid, you may have to repay funds. Pay attention to reporting deadlines and keep good records. For more details, visit our guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes.
File Hawaii TDI claims within 90 days of your disability. If you miss this window, you could lose part or all of your benefits[4].
Save copies of all benefit applications, letters, medical records, and pay stubs. This helps if you need to appeal or prove eligibility later.
If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal—do this within 20 days for Hawaii TDI[4].
SSI and SSDI are the main federal disability benefits. SSI provides monthly support to those with low income and resources, while SSDI is for people with a qualifying work history. Both require proof of significant disability.
Hawaii’s TDI program provides temporary wage replacement for covered workers, not a general disability benefit. Most with Williams Syndrome rely on SSI/SSDI for ongoing support.
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person. Gather medical records, work history, and financial documents. Respond promptly to any requests for more information.
Medicaid waivers offer home and community-based services for people with disabilities, allowing them to receive care at home instead of in institutions. Apply through Med-QUEST.
Yes, with limits. SSI and SSDI offer work incentives so you can try working without immediately losing benefits. Always report earnings to Social Security. See our SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide.
An ABLE account lets you save for disability expenses without risking your SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Earnings grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are not taxed.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not legal advice. Consult official agencies or a qualified professional for your specific situation.
Do not give up. Appeal promptly and provide additional medical evidence. You can also contact legal aid for help.
State-specific information is limited; start with national Williams Syndrome Association resources and contact Hawaii Disability Compensation Division for local guidance.
Medicaid is for low-income residents with disabilities. Medicare is for people 65+ or those who receive SSDI for over two years. Some qualify for both. See our Medicaid vs Medicare guide.
Report changes in income, living situation, or health to Social Security and Med-QUEST right away. Keeping them updated helps avoid overpayments and loss of benefits.
