Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Benefits in South Carolina

• To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and have a disability that stops you from working for at least 12 months. PTSD can qualify if it meets the Social Security Administration's (SSA) definition of disability.
• For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you need limited income and resources, and a disability that stops you from working for at least 12 months. PTSD can also qualify for SSI if it meets SSA rules.
• The SSA uses a list of conditions called the "Blue Book" to decide if a disability is severe enough. PTSD is listed under mental disorders. If your PTSD matches the criteria, you may qualify for benefits.
• You must also meet work credit rules for SSDI or income/resource limits for SSI.
• The SSA reviews your medical records, work history, and how your PTSD affects your daily life.

Source: SSA Disability Qualifications

• In South Carolina, if you get SSI, you may automatically qualify for SNAP (food stamps) through the SCCAP program. You do not need to apply separately at the DSS office.
• South Carolina does not tax Social Security benefits, including SSDI and SSI. This means your full benefit amount is yours to keep.
• If you have PTSD and qualify for SSDI or SSI, you may also qualify for Medicaid waivers. These waivers help pay for extra care and support services.
• South Carolina offers the Palmetto ABLE Savings Program. This lets you save money without losing eligibility for needs-based benefits like SSI or Medicaid.
• People with disabilities in South Carolina may get reduced fees for state parks and free hunting/fishing licenses.

Source: SCCAP Program, Source: SC Tax and Special Benefits

• Gather your medical records, work history, and proof of income.
• Fill out the SSDI or SSI application online at SSA.gov.
• If you get SSI, you may automatically qualify for SNAP through SCCAP.
• For Medicaid waivers, contact the SC Department of Health and Human Services.
• For ABLE accounts, apply through the Palmetto ABLE program.
• If your application is denied, you can appeal with help from a disability lawyer.

• Step 1: Get your medical records. Make sure they show your PTSD diagnosis and how it affects your ability to work.
• Step 2: Fill out the SSDI or SSI application online at SSA.gov. You can also apply by phone or in person at a local SSA office.
• Step 3: If you apply for SSI, you may automatically qualify for SNAP benefits through the SCCAP program. You do not need to apply separately at the DSS office.
• Step 4: If you need extra care, apply for a Medicaid waiver through the SC Department of Health and Human Services. These waivers help pay for services like therapy, home care, and job training.
• Step 5: If you want to save money without losing benefits, open a Palmetto ABLE account through the SC Office of the State Treasurer.
• Step 6: If your application is denied, you can appeal. You have 60 days to file an appeal. Consider hiring a disability lawyer for help.
• Step 7: Report any changes in your income, work, or health to the SSA. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits active.

Source: SSA Apply for Benefits, Source: SCCAP Program, Source: SC Medicaid Waivers, Source: Palmetto ABLE Program

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments for people who have worked and paid into Social Security. The amount depends on your work history.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly payments for people with limited income and resources. The amount is set by the federal government.
• Medicare: Health insurance for people who get SSDI after 24 months.
• Medicaid: Health insurance for people who get SSI or have low income.
• Ticket to Work: A program that helps people with disabilities get job training and support.

Source: SSA Disability Programs

• SCCAP (Combined Application Project): If you get SSI, you may automatically qualify for SNAP (food stamps) without applying separately.
• Medicaid Waivers: These help pay for extra care and support services for people with disabilities. Examples include therapy, home care, and job training.
• Palmetto ABLE Savings Program: Lets you save money without losing eligibility for needs-based benefits like SSI or Medicaid.
• Special Tax Benefits: South Carolina does not tax Social Security benefits. People with disabilities may also get reduced fees for state parks and free hunting/fishing licenses.

Source: SCCAP Program, Source: SC Medicaid Waivers, Source: Palmetto ABLE Program, Source: SC Tax and Special Benefits

• The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program lets people with disabilities save and invest money without losing eligibility for needs-based benefits like SSI or Medicaid.
• You can open an ABLE account online through the SC Office of the State Treasurer.
• There are annual and lifetime contribution limits. Check the program website for details.
• Funds in an ABLE account can be used for qualified disability expenses, like education, housing, and transportation.

Source: Palmetto ABLE Program

• For SSDI, you can earn up to $1,620 per month (2025) without losing benefits. This is called the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit.
• For SSI, there are strict income and resource limits. If you get SSI, you may automatically qualify for SNAP through SCCAP.
• If you earn more than the SGA limit, your SSDI benefits may stop. Report any changes in income to the SSA.

Source: SSA SGA Limits

• Report any changes in your income, work, or health to the SSA. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits active.
• If you get an overpayment, the SSA may ask you to pay it back. You can request a waiver if you cannot afford to pay.
• Keep records of all your income and expenses. This helps if you need to appeal an overpayment.

Source: SSA Overpayments

• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Monday-Friday

  Website

  Apply for SSDI or SSI, report changes, or get help with benefits.
• South Carolina Department of Social Services
  Phone: 1-800-768-5858

  Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday

  Website

  Apply for SNAP, SCCAP, and other assistance programs.
• South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
  Phone: 1-888-289-0709

  Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday

  Website

  Apply for Medicaid waivers and other health services.

• Can PTSD qualify for disability benefits in South Carolina?

  Yes, PTSD can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it prevents you from working for at least 12 months and meets SSA criteria. You must provide medical proof and show how PTSD affects your daily life.

• How much can I earn while on SSDI in South Carolina?

  In 2025, you can earn up to $1,620 per month without losing SSDI benefits. This is the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. If you are blind, the limit is $2,700.

• Does South Carolina tax Social Security disability benefits?

  No, South Carolina does not tax Social Security disability benefits, including SSDI and SSI. Your full benefit amount is yours to keep.

• Can I get SNAP if I have PTSD and receive SSI in South Carolina?

  Yes, if you get SSI in South Carolina, you may automatically qualify for SNAP (food stamps) through the SCCAP program. You do not need to apply separately at the DSS office.

• What are Medicaid waivers in South Carolina?

  Medicaid waivers help pay for extra care and support services for people with disabilities. Examples include therapy, home care, and job training. Contact the SC Department of Health and Human Services for details.

• How do I apply for an ABLE account in South Carolina?

  You can apply for a Palmetto ABLE account online through the SC Office of the State Treasurer. This lets you save money without losing eligibility for needs-based benefits.