If you have cancer in South Carolina, you may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSDI/SSI), Medicaid, SNAP, and special state programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you generally 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 meet the SSA’s definition of disability. Cancer is often considered a qualifying condition if it is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. The SSA uses a medical listing for cancer, and some cancers automatically qualify if they meet certain criteria. You must also meet non-medical requirements, such as age, employment, and citizenship status [1].
In South Carolina, people with cancer may qualify for additional state programs if they meet federal eligibility for SSDI or SSI. For example, if you receive SSI, you are automatically eligible for SNAP benefits through the South Carolina Combined Application Project (SCCAP) without a separate application. You must live alone or be responsible for your own meals and have no earned income. Medicaid waivers may also be available for those with cancer who need long-term care or support services. South Carolina also offers special benefits like reduced admission to state parks and free hunting/fishing licenses for those receiving SSDI or SSI due to disability [2, 5].
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program allows people with disabilities in South Carolina to save and invest money while maintaining eligibility for needs-based benefits. You can open an ABLE account if you became disabled before age 26 and meet other federal requirements. Funds in an ABLE account can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as housing, education, and transportation. The account does not affect your eligibility for Medicaid, SNAP, or SSI as long as the balance stays under $100,000 [6].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to the SSA and DSS. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you receive an overpayment, you may be able to request a waiver or set up a repayment plan. Always keep records of your reports and communications [2].
Yes, you can work part-time and keep your benefits as long as you stay under the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for most people and $2,700 for those who are legally blind. The Ticket to Work program can help you transition back to work without losing benefits [3, 4].
If you receive SSI, you are automatically eligible for SNAP through the South Carolina Combined Application Project (SCCAP). You must live alone or be responsible for your own meals and have no earned income. Complete the SCCAP application and mail it to the South Carolina Department of Social Services [2].
For 2025, the federal SSI payment is $943 per month for an individual. This can be reduced by other income. The resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. Income limits for SNAP vary by household size [2].
Yes, if you have cancer and meet the income and disability requirements, you may qualify for Medicaid. Medicaid waivers are also available for those who need long-term care or support services. Contact the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services for more information [8].
South Carolina offers reduced admission fees to state parks and free hunting and fishing licenses for those receiving SSDI or SSI due to disability. You may also qualify for Medicaid waivers and SNAP benefits [5].
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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You can apply for a Palmetto ABLE account online. You must have become disabled before age 26 and meet other federal requirements. Funds in the account can be used for qualified disability expenses and do not affect your eligibility for Medicaid, SNAP, or SSI as long as the balance stays under $100,000 [6].
The Ticket to Work program is a free service that helps people with disabilities get job training, update their skills, and ease back into work without immediately losing benefits. You may be eligible if you receive SSDI or SSI. Contact your local SC Works Center for more information [4].
Yes, you must report any changes in your income or living situation to the SSA and DSS. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties. Always keep records of your reports and communications [2].
Yes, if you are a South Carolina resident and receive SSDI or SSI due to disability, you may qualify for free hunting and fishing licenses. You must have been a resident for at least one year and renew the license every three years. Lifetime licenses are available for those with quadriplegia or paraplegia [5].
For 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for most people and $2,700 for those who are legally blind. If you earn more than this, your SSDI or SSI benefits may be affected [3].
