People with HIV/AIDS in South Carolina may qualify for federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, SNAP, and special programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, your HIV/AIDS must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means your condition must prevent you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For 2025, SGA is $1,620 per month for most people, or $2,700 for those who are legally blind. If your HIV/AIDS meets these criteria, you may be eligible for monthly cash benefits and health coverage [1].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs have strict medical and financial rules [2].
In South Carolina, people with HIV/AIDS who qualify for SSI or SSDI may also be eligible for state-specific benefits. For example, if you receive SSI, you may automatically qualify for SNAP (food stamps) through the South Carolina Combined Application Project (SCCAP) if you live alone or are responsible for your own meals and have no earned income [3].
South Carolina also offers reduced admission fees at state parks and free hunting and fishing licenses for people with disabilities, including those receiving SSI or SSDI. These benefits are based on the same definition of disability used by the SSA [4].
Additionally, South Carolina has Medicaid waivers and other programs for people with disabilities, which may provide home and community-based services [5].
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program in South Carolina allows individuals with disabilities to save and invest money without losing eligibility for needs-based benefits like SSI or Medicaid. You can open an ABLE account if you became disabled before age 26 and meet other criteria. Contributions to an ABLE account are not counted as income or resources for SSI or Medicaid purposes, up to certain limits [6].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. South Carolina may have additional state-specific limits for Medicaid and SNAP. Income from work may affect your benefits, but work incentives can help you keep some benefits while you work [2].
If you receive too much in benefits, the Social Security Administration may ask you to repay the overpayment. You must report changes in income, resources, or living arrangements to avoid overpayments. If you have trouble repaying, you can request a waiver or payment plan [7].
Contact your local Department of Social Services or Disability Rights South Carolina for free help applying for benefits and understanding your rights.
Yes, if your HIV/AIDS prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must meet SSA’s medical and financial criteria [2].
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local SSA office. You will need medical records and proof of income and resources [2].
Yes, you can work part-time and keep some benefits. The SSA has work incentives that let you keep cash and health benefits while you try to work. For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for most people [2].
If you receive SSI and live alone or are responsible for your own meals and have no earned income, you may automatically qualify for SNAP through the SCCAP program in South Carolina [3].
South Carolina offers reduced state park fees, free hunting and fishing licenses, Medicaid waivers, and the Palmetto ABLE Savings Program for people with disabilities, including those with HIV/AIDS [4][6].
You can apply for Medicaid online at scdhhs.gov or through your local Department of Social Services office. You will need proof of income, resources, and disability [5].
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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Yes, you can save money in an ABLE account without losing SSI or Medicaid. The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program in South Carolina lets you save up to certain limits without affecting your benefits [6].
The Ticket to Work program is a free service that helps people with disabilities find employment while keeping their benefits. It offers job training, counseling, and other services [2].
Yes, you must report changes in income, resources, or living arrangements to avoid overpayments. If you don’t report changes, you may have to repay benefits [7].
You can get help from local agencies like the Department of Social Services, Disability Rights South Carolina, or your local SC Works Center. They can help you apply and understand your rights [3][4].
