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South Carolina • Chronic Illness
People with diabetes in South Carolina may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs for 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with diabetes, your condition must severely limit your ability to work. For SSDI, you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical proof that diabetes causes significant limitations, such as frequent hospitalizations, complications, or inability to perform basic work tasks. The Social Security Administration reviews each case based on medical records and work capacity.
For 2025, the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is 2.5%, which increases monthly benefit amounts. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for most people is $1,620 per month, and $2,700 for those who are legally blind. Earning above these limits may affect your benefits.
[Source: SSA.gov, 2025 COLA and SGA limits]
In South Carolina, people with diabetes who receive SSI may automatically qualify for SNAP food benefits through the South Carolina Combined Application Project (SCCAP). You must receive SSI, live alone or be responsible for your own meals, and have no earned income. SNAP benefits are adjusted annually for inflation.
South Carolina also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including those with diabetes, to access home and community-based services. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and medical need. The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program lets people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for needs-based benefits like Medicaid or SSI.
[Source: DSS.SC.gov, SC DHHS, SC Treasurer]
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program allows people with disabilities in South Carolina to save and invest money while keeping eligibility for Medicaid, SSI, and other benefits. You can contribute up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit). Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like medical care, education, housing, and transportation. Opening an account is easy online through the SC Treasurer’s Office.
For 2025, the SGA limit for most people is $1,620 per month. For those who are legally blind, it is $2,700 per month. Earning above these limits may affect SSDI or SSI benefits. SNAP and Medicaid have separate income limits based on household size and resources. Check with DSS or SC DHHS for current limits.
If your income or living situation changes, report it to Social Security and DSS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you earn too much, move, or get other benefits. If you owe money, contact Social Security or DSS to set up a repayment plan. Always keep records of your reports and payments.
Contact Disability Rights South Carolina for free advocacy and help with applications, appeals, and reporting changes.
Open a Palmetto ABLE account to save for disability expenses without losing benefits.
Yes, if diabetes causes severe complications that limit your ability to work, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. Medical proof is required.
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. Provide medical records showing how diabetes affects your work.
Yes, if you receive SSI and meet SCCAP criteria, you can get SNAP without a separate application.
For most people, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month. For those who are legally blind, it is $2,700 per month.
Yes, you can work part-time as long as your earnings are below the SGA limit. The Ticket to Work program offers job support.
Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities, including those with diabetes, based on income and medical need.
Apply online through the SC Treasurer’s Office. You must have a disability that began before age 26.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
If you earn above the SGA limit, your SSDI or SSI benefits may be reduced or stopped. Report changes to avoid overpayments.
Yes, the Ticket to Work program offers job training and support. You can keep Medicaid or Medicare while working.
Report changes in income, living situation, or medical status to Social Security and DSS. Keep records of all reports.
