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South Carolina • Other
People with Sensory Processing Disorder in South Carolina may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, state programs, Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must meet Social Security’s definition of severe and long-term. Sensory Processing Disorder may qualify if it significantly limits your ability to work or perform daily activities. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews medical evidence and how your condition affects your life.
Source: SSA Disability Qualifications
In South Carolina, eligibility for disability benefits is based on federal rules, but some state programs may have additional requirements. For example, to get SNAP benefits through the SCCAP program, you must receive SSI, live alone or be responsible for your own meals, and have no earned income. South Carolina also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, which can provide home and community-based services. The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program lets people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for needs-based benefits.
Source: SSA Disability Benefits
Source: SCCAP SNAP Source: Palmetto ABLE Source: Ticket to Work
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program allows people with disabilities to save and invest money while maintaining eligibility for needs-based benefits. You can open an ABLE account if your disability began before age 26. Contributions to the account are not taxed, and funds can be used for qualified disability expenses.
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you must not earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals in 2024 and will likely increase in 2025. For SNAP through SCCAP, you must have no earned income and meet household rules.
Source: SSA COLA 2025 Source: SCCAP SNAP
It is important to report any changes in your income, living situation, or health to the SSA and DSS to avoid overpayments. If you receive an overpayment, you may be able to request a waiver or set up a repayment plan. Always keep records of your reports and communications.
Contact your local Social Security office or DSS office for help with applications and questions about eligibility.
Yes, if your Sensory Processing Disorder severely limits your ability to work or perform daily activities, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. The Social Security Administration reviews medical evidence and how your condition affects your life.
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need to provide medical records and proof of income.
SCCAP SNAP is a program that lets SSI recipients in South Carolina get SNAP benefits without a separate application if they meet household and income rules. You must live alone or be responsible for your own meals and have no earned income.
Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities who meet financial and disability criteria. Contact your local DSS office or visit their website for more information.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for needs-based benefits. You can open a Palmetto ABLE account if your disability began before age 26.
The Ticket to Work program is a free service that helps people with disabilities connect with employment services, skills assessments, workshops, and jobseeker support. You can continue to receive Medicaid and Medicare benefits while working.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
You must report any changes in your income, living situation, or health to the SSA and DSS to avoid overpayments. Always keep records of your reports and communications.
If you receive an overpayment, you may be able to request a waiver or set up a repayment plan. Contact the SSA or DSS for more information.
Yes, there are work incentives and support services to help people with disabilities find jobs and keep benefits. The Ticket to Work program and other services can help you transition to work.
South Carolina offers Medicaid waivers, SNAP through SCCAP, ABLE accounts, and vocational rehabilitation services for people with disabilities.
