People with Tourette Syndrome in Oklahoma may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, state Medicaid waivers, and work incentives. Eligibility depends on medical severity, income, and work history. This guide explains how to apply and what benefits are available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working and have earned enough work credits. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and be disabled, blind, or age 65 or older. Tourette Syndrome can qualify if it severely limits your ability to work or perform daily activities. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a list of impairments, but you can qualify even if your condition is not listed if it is equally severe.
[Source: SSA.gov, 2025 SSI FBR, SSDI eligibility]
In Oklahoma, people with Tourette Syndrome may qualify for state-specific programs in addition to federal benefits. Oklahoma offers a state supplement to SSI, which increases the monthly benefit for eligible individuals. To get the state supplement, you must apply separately through the state. Oklahoma also has Medicaid waivers for children and adults with disabilities, which can provide home and community-based services. Eligibility for these waivers depends on income, assets, and the severity of your disability. The state uses the federal SSI application to determine eligibility for the state supplement, but you must apply for both.
[Source: Oklahoma.gov, SSA.gov, Oklahoma Disability Handbook 2025]
[Source: SSA.gov, Oklahoma.gov, Oklahoma Disability Handbook 2025]
[Source: SSA.gov, CMS.gov]
[Source: Oklahoma.gov, Oklahoma Disability Handbook 2025, SSA.gov]
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Oklahoma, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. The account can be used for expenses like education, housing, transportation, and personal support services. Contributions are limited to $18,000 per year, and the account balance does not count toward SSI or Medicaid asset limits.
[Source: SSA.gov, Oklahoma.gov]
[Source: SSA.gov, Oklahoma.gov]
If your income or resources change, you must report it to the SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment or benefit suspension. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. Keep records of all reports and communications with the SSA.
[Source: SSA.gov, Oklahoma.gov]
Contact a disability advocate for free help with your application and appeals. They can guide you through the process and help you get the benefits you deserve.
Yes, you can get both SSI and SSDI in Oklahoma if your SSDI payment is low enough that SSI can “top up” your total to the federal benefit rate. Your total benefits cannot exceed $967/month for individuals or $1,450/month for couples in 2025.
Common qualifying conditions include cardiovascular disorders, musculoskeletal problems, mental disorders, respiratory illnesses, neurological disorders, immune system disorders, and digestive tract problems. Tourette Syndrome can qualify if it severely limits your ability to work.
You can apply for SSI and SSDI online, by phone, or at a local SSA office. The SSA reviews non-medical eligibility, then Oklahoma Disability Determination Services does the medical review. Apply for the state supplement separately.
Oklahoma provides extra money on top of federal SSI for eligible residents. You must apply for the state supplement separately through the state.
Medicaid waivers in Oklahoma provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities, including Tourette Syndrome, if they meet medical and financial criteria. These waivers help people live in the community instead of institutions.
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits, but your earnings must be below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. In 2025, SGA is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals. Work incentives help you return to work without losing benefits.
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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An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. In Oklahoma, you can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
SSDI payments are based on your work history. The maximum monthly benefit in 2025 is $3,627. Most people receive less, depending on their earnings record.
The federal SSI benefit rate in 2025 is $967/month for individuals and $1,450/month for couples. Oklahoma provides a state supplement, which increases the total benefit.
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. Contact a disability advocate for help with the appeals process. You may need to provide additional medical evidence or attend a hearing.
