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South Carolina • Sensory
People with Deaf-Blindness in South Carolina can access federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state-specific programs for Medicaid, SNAP, and special tax benefits. Eligibility depends on medical criteria and income. This guide explains how to apply and what benefits are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in South Carolina, you must meet Social Security's definition of disability. For Deaf-Blindness, this means a medically determinable impairment that prevents substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. In 2025, SGA is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. You must also meet work credit requirements for SSDI or income/resource limits for SSI. Children with Deaf-Blindness may qualify for benefits if their parent receives Social Security benefits and they meet the disability criteria. Adults with a disability that began before age 22 may also qualify for benefits on a parent's record if they are unmarried and meet the definition of disability[6][8].
In South Carolina, eligibility for state-specific benefits often aligns with federal disability determinations. For example, if you receive SSI or SSDI, you may automatically qualify for SNAP benefits through the SCCAP program if you live alone or are responsible for your own meals and have no earned income. Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS) are available for people with Deaf-Blindness who meet functional and financial criteria. Special tax benefits, such as reduced admission fees at state parks and no-fee hunting and fishing licenses, are available to those who are unable to perform substantial gainful employment due to a medical impairment lasting at least 12 months, which includes those receiving SSI or SSDI. Veterans classified as permanently and totally disabled by the VA also qualify for these benefits[2][4].
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program allows individuals with Deaf-Blindness in South Carolina to save and invest money while maintaining eligibility for important needs-based benefits. You can open an ABLE account if you became disabled before age 26 and meet the Social Security definition of disability. Contributions to the account are not subject to federal income tax, and withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are tax-free. The account can be used for expenses such as education, housing, transportation, and personal support services[5].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. The resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you must not exceed the SGA limit of $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind). For SNAP, the gross monthly income limit is 130% of the federal poverty level, and the net monthly income limit is 100% of the federal poverty level. For Medicaid, the income limit varies by program and household size[2][6][8].
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, the Social Security Administration may require you to repay the overpayment. To avoid overpayments, report any changes in your income, employment, or living situation to the Social Security Administration and DSS. If you receive an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan. For more information, see the Social Security overpayments factsheet and contact your local Social Security office[3].
Contact Disability Rights South Carolina for free advocacy and support with Social Security and state benefit applications. They can help with appeals, overpayments, and understanding your rights.
The Social Security Administration defines disability as a medically determinable impairment that prevents substantial gainful activity and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For Deaf-Blindness, this means a combination of hearing and vision loss that meets these criteria[6][8].
You can apply for SSI/SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. You will need to provide medical documentation of your Deaf-Blindness and other required information[6][8].
Yes, you can work while receiving SSI/SSDI, but your earnings must not exceed the SGA limit. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. There are work incentives and support services available to help you return to work[6][8].
State benefits include Medicaid waivers, SNAP, special tax benefits, reduced fees at state parks, and no-fee hunting and fishing licenses. You may also qualify for the Palmetto ABLE Savings Program and early intervention services through BabyNet[2][4][5][7].
If you receive SSI and live alone or are responsible for your own meals and have no earned income, you can apply for SNAP benefits through the SCCAP program by completing the SCCAP application form and mailing it to the South Carolina Department of Social Services[2].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized assistance.
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program allows individuals with disabilities 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 the Social Security definition of disability[5].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you must not exceed the SGA limit of $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind)[6][8].
To avoid overpayments, report any changes in your income, employment, or living situation to the Social Security Administration and DSS. If you receive an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan[3].
People with Deaf-Blindness may qualify for reduced admission fees at state parks and no-fee hunting and fishing licenses if they are unable to perform substantial gainful employment due to a medical impairment lasting at least 12 months[4].
Contact your local DSS office to apply for Medicaid waivers. You will need to provide documentation of your disability and financial situation. The process may include an assessment of your functional needs and a review of your income and resources[7].
