People with Tourette Syndrome in South Carolina may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI), Medicaid, SNAP, and state-specific programs. Eligibility depends on medical severity, income, and work history. This guide explains how to apply and what benefits are available.
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. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you need limited income and resources, and a disability that meets Social Security’s rules. Tourette Syndrome can qualify if it is severe enough to stop you from doing substantial work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a list of conditions called the “Blue Book.” Tourette Syndrome is listed under neurological disorders (11.06). If your symptoms match the listing, you may qualify. If not, you may still qualify if your condition is equally severe. The SSA looks at how your symptoms affect your daily life and ability to work. For 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for most people. If you earn more than this, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI. [^1]
In South Carolina, people with Tourette Syndrome may qualify for extra help if they get SSI or SSDI. For example, if you get SSI, you can automatically get SNAP food benefits through the South Carolina Combined Application Project (SCCAP). You must live alone or be responsible for your own meals, and have no earned income. South Carolina also offers reduced admission fees at state parks for people with disabilities who qualify for SSDI or SSI. You may also get free hunting and fishing licenses if you are a resident and receive disability benefits. The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program lets you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. To qualify for Medicaid waivers, you must meet income and disability rules. These waivers can help pay for home care, therapy, and other services. [^2][^3][^4][^5]
The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program lets people with disabilities save and invest money without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can save up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit). The account can pay for things like education, housing, transportation, and health care. To qualify, you must have a disability that started before age 26. You can apply online at the SC Office of the State Treasurer’s website. [^5]
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual. The SGA limit for SSDI is $1,620 per month. If you earn more than these amounts, you may not qualify for benefits. Some income does not count, like the first $20 of unearned income and the first $65 of earned income. Always report changes to avoid overpayments. [^1]
You must report any changes in your income, living situation, or health to the SSA and DSS. If you do not report changes, you may get an overpayment and have to pay it back. Report changes online, by phone, or at a local office. If you get an overpayment notice, contact the SSA or DSS right away to set up a payment plan. [^1]
Contact your local SC Works Center or Social Security office for free help with applications and questions.
Yes, Tourette Syndrome can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it is severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months. You must meet the SSA’s rules for disability. Medical records are needed to prove your condition.
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local SSA office. You will need to provide personal information, medical records, and work history. The SSA will review your application and decide if you qualify.
South Carolina offers extra help like SNAP, Medicaid waivers, reduced state park fees, free hunting and fishing licenses, and the Palmetto ABLE Savings Program. You may also get free job training through the Ticket to Work program.
Yes, you can work and still get disability benefits through special work incentives. The SGA limit for 2025 is $1,620 per month. If you earn more than this, you may not qualify. The Ticket to Work program can help you get a job and keep benefits.
If you get SSI, you can get SNAP automatically through the South Carolina Combined Application Project (SCCAP). Complete the SCCAP application and mail it to the South Carolina Department of Social Services. You will get SNAP benefits as long as you get SSI and your living situation stays the same.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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The Palmetto ABLE Savings Program lets people with disabilities save and invest money without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can save up to $18,000 per year. The account can pay for things like education, housing, transportation, and health care.
Yes, you must report any changes in your income, living situation, or health to the SSA and DSS. If you do not report changes, you may get an overpayment and have to pay it back. Report changes online, by phone, or at a local office.
Yes, if you are a South Carolina resident and receive disability benefits, you can get free hunting and fishing licenses. You must have lived in SC for at least one year. The licenses must be renewed every three years.
Medicaid waivers help pay for home care, therapy, and other services for people with disabilities. You can apply online or at a local DSS office. You must meet income and disability rules to qualify.
If you get SSDI or SSI, you can get at least 35% off admission and campsites at SC state parks. You must show proof of your disability benefits to get the discount.
