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South Carolina • Neurological/Developmental
People with Cerebral Palsy in South Carolina may qualify for federal and state benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, SNAP, and special programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and support resources.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a disability that prevents substantial work for at least 12 months and have enough work credits from jobs covered by Social Security. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must meet Social Security’s definition. Cerebral Palsy is listed as a qualifying condition if it meets the severity criteria. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals[8].
Medicaid is available for those who receive SSI or meet other low-income criteria. Medicare is available for those who receive SSDI after a 24-month waiting period[8].
In South Carolina, people with Cerebral Palsy may qualify for Medicaid waivers, which provide home and community-based services. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and functional needs. South Carolina also offers special benefits, such as reduced admission fees at state parks and free hunting/fishing licenses for those receiving SSI or SSDI. To qualify for these, you must be a resident and meet the disability criteria set by the state, which generally aligns with Social Security’s definition[5].
If you receive SSI, you may automatically qualify for SNAP benefits through the South Carolina Combined Application Project (SCCAP), without a separate application[2].
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program allows people with disabilities to save and invest money without losing eligibility for needs-based benefits. You can open an account online and contribute up to the annual limit. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses[6].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you must not exceed the SGA limit of $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals[8]. For Medicaid waivers, income and asset limits vary by program[2].
If you receive an overpayment from Social Security, you must report it and may be able to request a waiver or repayment plan. Report changes in income, work, or living situation to avoid overpayments. For more information, see the Social Security Administration’s overpayments factsheet[3].
Contact Disability Rights South Carolina for free advocacy and support with Social Security and other benefits[3].
The Ticket to Work program offers free job training and support for people with disabilities[4].
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid into Social Security. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs provide monthly cash benefits for people with disabilities[7].
Yes, but there are limits. For SSDI, you must not exceed the SGA limit. For SSI, you can earn some income, but it may reduce your benefits. Work incentives help you keep benefits while trying to work[8].
Contact the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. You may need to complete a separate application and provide documentation of your disability and income[2].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save and invest money without losing eligibility for needs-based benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses[6].
Yes, you must report changes to avoid overpayments. Report changes in income, work, or living situation to Social Security and other benefit programs[3].
South Carolina offers reduced admission fees at state parks and free hunting/fishing licenses for people with disabilities who receive SSI or SSDI[5].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always verify eligibility and requirements with official agencies.
If you receive SSI, you may be automatically enrolled in SNAP through the South Carolina Combined Application Project (SCCAP). Otherwise, apply at your local DSS office or online[2].
The Ticket to Work program offers free employment services for people with disabilities who receive SSDI or SSI. It helps you gain financial independence while keeping your benefits[4].
