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South Carolina • Neurodegenerative
People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in South Carolina can access federal and state benefits, including SSI, Medicaid, SNAP, and special programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) are automatically considered disabled by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. To qualify, you must have a medical diagnosis of ALS and meet SSA’s work history or income requirements. Most people with ALS are approved quickly due to the severity of the condition. You can learn more about federal eligibility at the SSA website.
Source: SSA Disability Qualifications
ALS is a rare neurodegenerative disease that causes rapid loss of muscle control and is considered a severe disability by federal law.
In South Carolina, people with ALS may qualify for several state-specific benefits. If you receive SSI, you may automatically qualify for SNAP (food stamps) through the South Carolina Combined Application Project (SCCAP), as long as you live alone or are responsible for your own meals and have no earned income. You can also apply for Medicaid, which covers medical care for people with disabilities. South Carolina also offers reduced admission to state parks and free hunting and fishing licenses for people with qualifying disabilities, including ALS. These benefits require proof of disability, such as SSI or SSDI approval.
Source: SC DSS SCCAP Source: Disability Rights SC Source: SSA Disability Qualifications
These programs are available nationwide and are administered by federal agencies.
Source: SC DSS SCCAP Source: Disability Rights SC Source: SC Treasurer ABLE
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program allows people with disabilities in South Carolina to save and invest money while maintaining eligibility for needs-based benefits like SSI and Medicaid. You can open an ABLE account if you became disabled before age 26 and meet other requirements. Funds in an ABLE account can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as medical care, education, and housing.
Federal and state programs have income limits for people with disabilities. For SSI, the 2025 federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual. For Medicaid, income limits vary by program and household size. SNAP and other programs also have income limits based on household size and expenses. You can use the SSI Income Estimator to see if you qualify.
Source: SSA SSI Limits Source: SCDHHS Income Limits
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you receive benefits you are not eligible for. Report changes to Social Security, DSS, or Medicaid as soon as possible. You can avoid penalties by reporting changes promptly and keeping records of your reports.
Source: SCDHHS Reporting Changes Source: SSA Reporting Changes
Contact your local SC Works Center or Disability Rights SC for free help with applications and support.
Yes, ALS is considered a severe disability by the Social Security Administration and qualifies for expedited processing. Most people with ALS are approved quickly for SSI or SSDI benefits.
Yes, if you receive SSI and meet the criteria, you may automatically qualify for SNAP through the SCCAP program. If not, you can apply by mail using the SCCAP form.
South Carolina offers SNAP, Medicaid, reduced state park fees, free hunting/fishing licenses, and the Palmetto ABLE savings program for people with disabilities, including ALS.
You can apply for Medicaid online or through your local DSS office. You will need to provide proof of disability, such as a medical diagnosis of ALS or SSI/SSDI approval.
Yes, the Ticket to Work program helps people with disabilities, including ALS, find employment while keeping their benefits. You can earn income and still receive Medicaid and Medicare.
The Palmetto ABLE program allows people with disabilities in South Carolina to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes, you must report changes to Social Security, DSS, or Medicaid to avoid overpayments. Report changes as soon as possible and keep records of your reports.
You can get help from local agencies, such as SC Works, Disability Rights SC, or your local DSS office. They can help you with applications and answer questions.
Yes, veterans with ALS may qualify for additional benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs, including health care and disability compensation.
Yes, people with qualifying disabilities, including ALS, can get free hunting and fishing licenses in South Carolina by providing proof of disability.
