People with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in South Carolina may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, state Medicaid waivers, SNAP, ABLE accounts, and employment support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs.
To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes, and have a disability that stops you from working for at least a year. You usually need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must meet Social Security's definition. ADHD can qualify if it severely limits your ability to work or do daily activities. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for most people with disabilities. If you earn more than this, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI. ^1
In South Carolina, people with ADHD who get SSI may also qualify for SNAP food benefits without a separate application through the South Carolina Combined Application Project (SCCAP). To use SCCAP, you must get SSI, live alone or be responsible for your own meals, and have no earned income. SCCAP gives you SNAP benefits as long as you keep getting SSI and your living situation stays the same. South Carolina also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, which can help pay for services not covered by regular Medicaid. These waivers may help with therapy, job training, or home care. ^2
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program lets people with disabilities in South Carolina save and invest money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) and use the funds for disability-related expenses. ABLE accounts help with costs like therapy, education, housing, and transportation. ^7
In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for most people with disabilities. If you earn more than this, you may lose SSDI or SSI benefits. For SSI, the income limit is lower and depends on your living situation. SCCAP requires no earned income to get SNAP benefits if you get SSI. ^1
If Social Security says you owe money, contact them right away. You can ask for a waiver or set up a payment plan. Always report changes in income, living situation, or work status to avoid overpayments. For help, see the Social Security overpayments factsheet or contact Disability Rights South Carolina. ^3
Contact Disability Rights South Carolina for free help with disability benefits, overpayments, and work incentives. They can guide you through the process and protect your rights.
Yes, ADHD can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it severely limits your ability to work or do daily activities. You must meet Social Security's disability rules and provide medical proof.
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. You'll need medical records and work history to prove your disability.
Yes, if you get SSI and meet SCCAP rules, you can get SNAP without a separate application. You must live alone or be responsible for your own meals and have no earned income.
The SGA limit is $1,620 per month for most people with disabilities in 2025. If you earn more than this, you may lose SSDI or SSI benefits.
Yes, you can work and keep benefits if you earn less than the SGA limit. Work incentives like Ticket to Work help you try work without losing benefits.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can save up to $17,000 per year in 2025.
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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Always report changes in income, living situation, or work status to Social Security. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits correct.
South Carolina offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities. These can help pay for therapy, job training, home care, and other services not covered by regular Medicaid.
Ticket to Work is a free program that helps people with disabilities get job support, training, and counseling. It lets you try work while keeping Medicaid or Medicare.
Report all changes in income, living situation, or work status to Social Security. If you get an overpayment notice, contact Social Security right away to set up a payment plan or ask for a waiver.
