People with epilepsy in South Carolina can access federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, SNAP, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and special programs for epilepsy and other disabilities.
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 Social Security's definition of disability. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for most people with disabilities. If your epilepsy prevents you from working at this level, you may qualify for federal disability benefits [^1][^2].
In South Carolina, people with epilepsy who receive SSI are automatically eligible for SNAP benefits through the Combined Application Project (SCCAP), as long as they meet certain household and income rules. You may also qualify for Medicaid waivers if your epilepsy requires long-term care or support services. South Carolina also offers free or reduced-cost hunting and fishing licenses, and reduced admission to state parks for those with qualifying disabilities, including epilepsy. To qualify, you must be unable to perform substantial gainful employment due to your medical condition, which matches the Social Security definition of disability [^3][^4][^5].
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program allows people with epilepsy in South Carolina to save and invest money while maintaining eligibility for SSI and Medicaid. You can use ABLE funds for disability-related expenses like medical care, education, and housing. Contributions are tax-free, and earnings grow tax-free. See the state treasurer's website for details and to open an account [^7].
In 2025, the SGA limit for SSDI is $1,620 per month. For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025, but South Carolina may have additional state supplements. Income from work, investments, and other sources can affect your benefits. Use the SSI Income Estimator tool to see how your income affects your benefits [^1][^2].
If your income, living situation, or medical status changes, you must report it to Social Security. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments and loss of benefits. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact Social Security or Disability Rights South Carolina for help resolving the issue [^9][^10].
Contact Disability Rights South Carolina for free advocacy and support with Social Security benefits and other disability programs [^10].
The Ticket to Work program offers free job training and career counseling for people with epilepsy who want to work [^8].
Yes, if your epilepsy prevents you from working at the Substantial Gainful Activity level for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must meet Social Security's medical and work history requirements [^1][^2].
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need medical records and work history to support your claim [^1].
Yes, South Carolina offers Medicaid waivers, SNAP, reduced state park fees, and free hunting and fishing licenses for people with epilepsy who meet eligibility rules [^3][^4][^5].
Yes, you can work, but your earnings must stay below the SGA limit. Social Security offers work incentives like Ticket to Work to help you earn income without losing benefits [^8].
Report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to Social Security. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact Social Security or Disability Rights South Carolina for help [^9][^10].
Yes, you can open a Palmetto ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility [^7].
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 may qualify for Medicaid waivers that cover personal care, respite, and other long-term care services. Contact the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services for more information [^6].
Yes, SC Works and the Ticket to Work program offer free employment services, including job training and career counseling, for people with epilepsy [^8].
If you receive SSI or SSDI, you can apply for free hunting and fishing licenses from the Department of Natural Resources. You must be a South Carolina resident for at least one year [^5].
Yes, Disability Rights South Carolina provides information and advocacy for people with disabilities who receive Social Security benefits [^10].
