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Tennessee • Neurodegenerative
People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Tennessee can qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, plus state programs such as Medicaid waivers and family support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what help is available.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a severe neurodegenerative disease that qualifies for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Tennessee. To qualify for SSDI, you must have a work history and enough Social Security work credits. Most adults need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before disability begins. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. Both programs require that your disability prevents you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit in 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. If you earn more than this, you generally cannot qualify for benefits. However, ALS is a Compassionate Allowance condition, meaning your claim is fast-tracked for approval by the Social Security Administration[1][5][6].
In Tennessee, people with ALS may also qualify for state programs that help with medical care, home support, and family needs. The Family Support Program assists families with children or adults with severe disabilities, including ALS, by providing services like respite care, home modifications, and personal assistance. The program is funded by state dollars and is not a substitute for Medicaid or private insurance. The current benefit limit is $6,000 per individual with a severe disability in a family. Eligibility depends on available resources and local council decisions. Tennessee also offers Medicaid waivers, such as the Employment and Community First (ECF) Choices program, which provides home and community-based services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including some with ALS. These programs help with employment, daily living, and quality of life[3][4][7].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Tennessee, you can open an ABLE account to save up to $100,000 without affecting SSI eligibility. ABLE accounts can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one in Tennessee[4].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly payment is $967 for an individual. The income limit for SSI is based on your countable income, which includes wages, Social Security benefits, and other sources. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for non-blind individuals is $1,620 per month in 2025. If you earn more than this, you generally cannot qualify for SSI or SSDI. However, ALS is a Compassionate Allowance condition, so your claim is fast-tracked for approval[1][5][6].
You must report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits. If you start working, your benefits may be reduced or stopped. Social Security offers work incentives that let you test employment without losing benefits. Report changes to Social Security and state agencies as soon as possible to avoid penalties and overpayments[1][5].
ALS is a Compassionate Allowance condition, so your disability claim is fast-tracked for approval by the Social Security Administration. This means you can get benefits faster than with other conditions[1][5][6].
Tennessee offers the Family Support Program and Medicaid waivers like ECF Choices to help families with severe disabilities, including ALS. These programs provide services like respite care, home modifications, and personal assistance[3][4][7].
Yes, ALS is a Compassionate Allowance condition, so your disability claim is fast-tracked for approval by the Social Security Administration. This means you can get benefits faster than with other conditions[1][5][6].
SSDI is based on your work history and how much you paid into Social Security. SSI is based on financial need and is for people with limited income and resources. Both programs provide monthly payments for people with ALS[1][2][4].
The maximum SSDI payment in 2025 is $4,018 per month. The maximum SSI payment is $967 per month. The actual amount depends on your work history and income[2][5].
Tennessee offers the Family Support Program, Medicaid waivers like ECF Choices, and the Katie Beckett Program for children. These programs provide services like respite care, home modifications, and help with medical care[3][4][7].
You can work, but your earnings must be below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit of $1,620 per month in 2025. Social Security offers work incentives that let you test employment without losing benefits[1][5].
Apply for SSDI or SSI online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person. For state benefits, contact your local Family Support Program office. Gather medical records and proof of income before applying[1][3][4][5].
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.
The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities, including ALS. It provides services like respite care, home modifications, and personal assistance. The current benefit limit is $6,000 per individual with a severe disability in a family[3][4].
ECF Choices is a Medicaid waiver program that provides home and community-based services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including some with ALS. Services help with employment, daily living, and quality of life[4][7].
Yes, children with ALS can get SSI and may qualify for the Katie Beckett Program if they do not qualify for TennCare because of their parent’s income or assets. These programs provide services and help with medical care[4][6].
Report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and state agencies as soon as possible. Social Security offers work incentives that let you test employment without losing benefits[1][5].
