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South Carolina • Rare/Genetic
People with Prader-Willi Syndrome in South Carolina may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid waivers, SNAP, and the Palmetto ABLE Savings Program. These benefits help cover medical care, daily living costs, and support independence.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must meet Social Security’s definition of disability. For adults, this means a medical condition that prevents substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Prader-Willi Syndrome often meets these criteria due to its impact on physical and cognitive abilities. Adults need 40 work credits (20 in the last 10 years) for SSDI. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Children under 18 may qualify for SSI if their condition severely limits daily activities. Disabled Adult Children (DAC) can receive benefits on a parent’s record if the disability began before age 22 and the parent is retired, disabled, or deceased [6].
In South Carolina, eligibility for state programs often depends on federal benefit status. For example, if you receive SSI, you may automatically qualify for SNAP through the South Carolina Combined Application Project (SCCAP) if you live alone or are responsible for your own meals and have no earned income [2]. Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS) are available for those with qualifying disabilities, including Prader-Willi Syndrome, who meet financial and functional criteria. The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program allows individuals with disabilities to save money while keeping eligibility for needs-based benefits [5]. State-specific income limits and program rules apply, so check with local agencies for details.
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program lets individuals with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other needs-based benefits. You can open an ABLE account online or by phone. Contributions are limited each year, and funds can be used for qualified expenses like education, housing, transportation, and personal support services [5].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. The SGA (Substantial Gainful Activity) limit for SSDI is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals in 2025. These limits may change annually based on inflation. For SNAP, eligibility is based on household size and income, with higher limits for those on SSI [2][6].
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, the SSA may ask for repayment. Report changes in income, living situation, or medical status to the SSA and state agencies promptly to avoid overpayments. If you get an overpayment notice, contact the SSA to discuss repayment options or appeal the decision [3].
Contact Disability Rights South Carolina for free help with Social Security benefits, overpayments, and work incentives. They can also help you find local resources and support.
Yes, Prader-Willi Syndrome often meets Social Security’s definition of disability. Adults need work credits for SSDI, while SSI is for those with limited income and resources. Children may qualify for SSI if their condition severely limits daily activities [6].
If you receive SSI and live alone or are responsible for your own meals with no earned income, you can apply for SNAP through the South Carolina Combined Application Project (SCCAP). Complete the SCCAP form and mail it to the Department of Social Services [2].
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program lets individuals with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other needs-based benefits. You can open an account online or by phone [5].
Yes, South Carolina offers work incentives like the Ticket to Work program. This program provides job training and support, and you can earn income while keeping Medicaid and Medicare benefits. The SGA limit for 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals [4][6].
Medicaid waivers in South Carolina provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities, such as personal care, respite care, and supported employment. These waivers help individuals live independently in their communities [7].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility requirements.
Report changes in income, living situation, or medical status to the SSA and state agencies promptly. This helps avoid overpayments and ensures you receive the correct amount of benefits [3].
The SGA (Substantial Gainful Activity) limit for 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above this limit may affect your SSDI benefits [6].
Yes, children under 18 with Prader-Willi Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their condition severely limits daily activities. Disabled Adult Children can receive benefits on a parent’s record if the disability began before age 22 [6].
The Ticket to Work program is a free service that helps people with disabilities connect with employment services. It offers job training, career counseling, and support to help individuals gain financial independence while keeping Medicaid and Medicare benefits [4].
Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS) to learn about Medicaid waiver programs and apply. You will need to meet financial and functional criteria [7].
