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South Carolina • Chronic Illness
People with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in South Carolina may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI), Medicaid, SNAP, and state-specific programs. Eligibility depends on medical severity, income, and work history. This guide explains how to apply and what benefits are available.
To get federal disability benefits in South Carolina for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) rules. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a medical condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months and enough work credits from jobs covered by Social Security. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your income and assets must be low, and you must be disabled, blind, or age 65 or older. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can qualify if it severely limits your ability to work or do daily activities for a year or more. The SSA reviews medical records and work history to decide eligibility [^1].
In South Carolina, people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome who get SSI or SSDI may also qualify for state programs. If you receive SSI, you can get SNAP food benefits without a separate application through the South Carolina Combined Application Project (SCCAP). To qualify, you must live alone or be responsible for your own meals and have no earned income. South Carolina also offers reduced admission fees at state parks and free hunting/fishing licenses for people with disabilities who meet SSA criteria. You must be a resident for at least one year to get free licenses. These benefits help make life more affordable and accessible for disabled residents [^2][^4].
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program lets people with disabilities in South Carolina save and invest money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other needs-based benefits. You can use the account for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation. Contributions are tax-free, and earnings grow tax-free. To open an account, visit the SC Office of the State Treasurer website [^5].
For SSI, your income and assets must be below certain limits. In 2025, the federal SSI payment is $943 per month for an individual. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for SSDI is expected to be around $1,500 per month in 2025. If you earn more than the SGA limit, you may lose SSDI benefits. For SNAP, eligibility depends on household size and income. If you get SSI, you may automatically qualify for SNAP through SCCAP [^1][^2].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security and DSS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you earn too much or don’t report changes. If you get an overpayment notice, contact Social Security or DSS right away to set up a repayment plan. Reporting changes helps keep your benefits accurate and prevents future problems [^1][^2].
Contact your local Social Security office or SC Works center for free help with applications and job support.
Report any changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to Social Security and DSS to avoid overpayments.
Yes, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it prevents you from working for at least 12 months. You must provide medical evidence showing how your condition limits your ability to work or do daily activities. The Social Security Administration reviews your case based on medical records and work history [^1].
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at SSA.gov or at your local Social Security office. You will need to provide medical records and information about your work history. The SSA will review your application and let you know if you qualify [^1].
If you get SSI, you may automatically qualify for SNAP food benefits 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 address provided [^2].
The Ticket to Work program helps people with disabilities find jobs while keeping their benefits. If you are age 18-64 and get SSDI or SSI, you can get job training, resume help, and career counseling. You can keep Medicaid or Medicare while you work [^3].
Yes, disabled residents can get reduced admission fees at state parks and free hunting/fishing licenses. You must meet SSA disability criteria and be a South Carolina resident for at least one year. These benefits help make life more affordable [^4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes, you can open a Palmetto ABLE Savings Account. This lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other needs-based benefits. Contributions and earnings are tax-free [^5].
If your income, living situation, or medical condition changes, you must report it to Social Security and DSS. Reporting changes helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate. You can report changes online or by phone [^1][^2].
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for SSDI is expected to be around $1,500 per month in 2025. If you earn more than this, you may lose SSDI benefits. The limit is adjusted each year for inflation [^1].
Yes, if you have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and low income, you may qualify for Medicaid. You can apply online at SC DHHS or at your local Department of Social Services office. Medicaid covers health care for people with disabilities [^2].
If you are disabled and meet SSA criteria, you can get a free hunting or fishing license. You must be a South Carolina resident for at least one year. Apply at the Columbia office of the Department of Natural Resources and provide proof of disability [^4].
