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South Carolina • Chronic Illness
People with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis in South Carolina may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state-specific programs for food, work, and savings. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in South Carolina, you must meet the Social Security Administration's (SSA) definition of disability. For Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, this means your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. You generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years, for SSDI. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals[1].
In South Carolina, if you receive SSI, you may automatically qualify for SNAP food benefits through the Combined Application Project (SCCAP), as long as you live alone or are responsible for your own meals and have no earned income[2]. You may also qualify for reduced admission fees at state parks and free hunting/fishing licenses if you receive SSDI or SSI[5]. The state also offers the Palmetto ABLE Savings Program, which lets you save money without losing eligibility for needs-based benefits[6].
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program lets people with disabilities in South Carolina save and invest money without losing eligibility for needs-based benefits like SSI or Medicaid. You can open an account online and contribute up to the annual limit. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses[6].
In 2025, the SGA limit for SSDI is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025, but state supplements may apply. Exceeding these limits can affect your benefits[1][7].
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, SSA may ask for repayment. Report changes in income, living situation, or work status to SSA promptly to avoid overpayments. If you get an overpayment notice, contact Disability Rights South Carolina for help[3].
Contact Disability Rights South Carolina for free help with disability benefits, overpayments, and work incentives[3].
Open a Palmetto ABLE account to save money while keeping your SSI or Medicaid eligibility[6].
Yes, if your condition meets SSA criteria for disability, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must show your illness prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months[7].
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need medical records and proof of income or resources[7].
South Carolina offers automatic SNAP for SSI recipients, reduced state park fees, free hunting/fishing licenses, and the Palmetto ABLE Savings Program[2][5][6].
Yes, you can work, but your earnings must stay below the SGA limit. The Ticket to Work program offers free job services to help you work without losing benefits[4].
The SGA limit for 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. If you earn more, you may lose SSDI benefits[1].
If you receive SSI and live alone or are responsible for your own meals with no earned income, you can get SNAP through the SCCAP program by completing a simple application[2].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program lets people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for needs-based benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses[6].
Yes, if you receive SSDI or SSI, you can get free hunting and fishing licenses in South Carolina. You must be a resident for at least one year and apply through the Department of Natural Resources[5].
If you get an overpayment notice, contact Disability Rights South Carolina for help. Report any changes in income or living situation to SSA to avoid future overpayments[3].
You can join the Ticket to Work program for free job services, including career counseling and resume help. Contact your local SC Works Center to get started[4].
