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South Carolina • Neurodegenerative
People with Parkinson’s Disease in South Carolina may qualify for federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, SNAP, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to find help.
If Parkinson’s Disease prevents you from working, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require a medical review to confirm your disability meets Social Security’s definition. You may also qualify for Medicaid, SNAP, and other benefits if you meet income and asset rules 5, 6.
In South Carolina, people with Parkinson’s Disease may qualify for Medicaid waivers, which provide home and community-based services. The state also offers the Palmetto ABLE Savings Program, letting you save money without losing benefits. If you receive SSI, you may automatically qualify for SNAP benefits through the Combined Application Project (SCCAP). Eligibility for state programs depends on income, assets, and living situation. Contact local agencies for details on Medicaid waivers and other support 1, 4, 7.
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program lets people with Parkinson’s Disease save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses. To open an account, you must have a qualifying disability and meet income rules. Visit the Palmetto ABLE website for details 4.
Income limits for SSI, Medicaid, and SNAP vary by program and household size. SSI has strict asset limits ($2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples). Medicaid and SNAP limits depend on your state and situation. Check with SC DHHS or DSS for current limits 5, 7.
If your income or living situation changes, report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you don’t report changes in a timely way. Contact SSA or DSS if you think you have an overpayment. See our guide on avoiding overpayments for more details 2.
Contact Disability Rights South Carolina or your local Social Security office for free help with your application.
Yes, if you meet the rules for both programs. SSI is for people with low income and resources. SSDI is for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes. You may qualify for both if your income is low and you have enough work credits [5](https://www.usa.gov/social-security-disability).
Contact the SC Department of Health and Human Services. You may need to complete a functional assessment to show your need for services. Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based care for people with disabilities [7](https://www.scdhhs.gov/members/program-eligibility-and-income-limits).
Palmetto ABLE is a state program that lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses. Visit the Palmetto ABLE website for details [4](https://treasurer.sc.gov/what-we-do/for-citizens/able-savings-program/).
If you get SSI in South Carolina, you may automatically qualify for SNAP through the Combined Application Project (SCCAP). You need to complete the SCCAP form and mail it to DSS. You will receive SNAP benefits as long as you get SSI and your living situation stays the same [1](https://dss.sc.gov/assistance-programs/snap/how-do-i-apply/help-for-the-disabled/).
Yes, there are work incentives that let you keep benefits while you work. The Ticket to Work program offers free employment services. Contact SC Works for help with job training and support [3](https://scworks.org/employer/employer-programs/ticket-work).
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Report changes in income or living situation to SSA or DSS as soon as possible. Overpayments can happen if you don’t report changes. Contact SSA or DSS if you think you have an overpayment [2](https://www.disabilityrightssc.org/resources/social-security/).
A Representative Payee is a person who manages Social Security benefits for someone who can’t manage their own. The payee must use the money in the best interest of the beneficiary. Contact Disability Rights South Carolina for more info [2](https://www.disabilityrightssc.org/resources/social-security/).
Children with disabilities may qualify for Medicaid waivers and early intervention services. Contact SC DHHS or BabyNet for details on programs for children with disabilities [7](https://www.scdhhs.gov/members/program-eligibility-and-income-limits).
Contact Disability Rights South Carolina or your local Social Security office for help with your application. They can provide information and support to help you apply for benefits [2](https://www.disabilityrightssc.org/resources/social-security/).
Medicaid is for low-income people with disabilities. Medicare is for people with disabilities after 24 months of SSDI. Both provide health coverage, but eligibility rules are different. See our guide for more details [5](https://www.usa.gov/social-security-disability).
