If you have an amputation in Tennessee, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs for home care, equipment, and support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what resources are available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and earned enough work credits. In 2025, most adults need 40 credits (about 10 years of work), with 20 earned in the last 10 years before disability. For those under 31, fewer credits are required. You must also have a medical condition that prevents substantial work for at least 12 months. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have low income and limited resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require that your amputation prevents you from doing substantial work, defined as earning more than $1,550 per month in 2025 (or $2,590 if blind) [1].
In Tennessee, amputation may qualify you for state programs that provide home care, equipment, and family support. The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities, including amputation, by funding respite care, home modifications, equipment, and more. Services are flexible and based on need. You may also qualify for Medicaid waivers like the Employment and Community First (ECF) Choices program, which supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities but may help with related needs. State programs are not substitutes for federal benefits but can fill gaps in care and support [3][4].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Tennessee residents can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. Learn more about ABLE accounts and eligibility [internal_link: ABLE Accounts].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly payment is $967. Income and resources must be below specific limits. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you must not earn more than $1,550 per month from work (SGA limit) [1][2].
Report any changes in income, work, or medical status to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much, you may have to repay it. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes [internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
Contact Family Voices TN or your local Social Security office for help with applications and appeals.
Yes, if your amputation prevents you from working for 12+ months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. State programs like Family Support can also help with home care and equipment [1][3].
The maximum SSDI payment in 2025 is $4,018 per month. The maximum SSI payment is $967 per month. State programs may provide additional support [2].
You need medical records showing your amputation and how it affects your ability to work. The state agency may ask for more exams or tests if needed [6].
You can try to work, but if you earn more than $1,550 per month (SGA limit), you may lose benefits. Social Security offers work incentives and trial work periods [1].
The application process can take several months. The state agency may take 6-8 months to decide on SSI, but some conditions may get immediate payments [6].
Tennessee offers Family Support for home care and equipment, Medicaid waivers for home and community services, and the Katie Beckett program for children with complex needs [3][4].
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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For SSI, yes. For SSDI, no, but you must have enough work credits. State programs may have income limits [1][2].
Yes, children with amputation may qualify for SSI or the Katie Beckett program if they meet medical and income requirements [6][4].
You can appeal within 60 days. Appeals may include reconsideration, a hearing, and review by the Appeals Council [1].
Report changes in income, work, or medical status to Social Security to avoid overpayments. Learn more about reporting changes [internal_link: Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes].
