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Tennessee • Speech/Language
If you have aphasia in Tennessee, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI. These programs help cover lost income and medical costs. State resources and Medicaid waivers can also provide extra support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what help is available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition like aphasia that stops you from working for at least 12 months. You also need enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes. In 2025, most people need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled. If you are younger, fewer credits may be needed. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have low income and limited resources. Both programs require that your condition prevents you from earning more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind) in 2025. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your medical records to decide if your aphasia meets their rules for disability.
Tennessee does not have a separate state disability program for adults with aphasia. However, residents can access federal programs like SSI and SSDI. Tennessee also offers Medicaid waivers for long-term care and support services, which may help people with aphasia who need extra help at home or in the community. These waivers are for people who meet both medical and financial rules. The state’s Medicaid program, TennCare, may cover speech therapy and other services for eligible individuals. State-specific rules for Medicaid waivers and support services can change, so check with the Tennessee Department of Health or the Tennessee Disability Coalition for updates.
Step 1: Review eligibility rules for SSI and SSDI. Make sure your aphasia meets the SSA’s definition of disability and that you meet work credit or income rules.
Step 2: Collect medical records, work history, and proof of income or resources.
Step 3: Apply for benefits online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office.
Step 4: Wait for a decision. The SSA may ask for more medical information or schedule an exam.
Step 5: If denied, you can appeal within 60 days. You may also seek help from a disability advocate.
Step 6: If approved, you may get monthly payments and access to Medicaid or Medicare. For extra support, apply for Tennessee Medicaid waivers or other state programs.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments for people with a qualifying disability who have enough work credits.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly payments for people with low income and limited resources who have a qualifying disability.
Medicare: Health coverage for people who get SSDI after a 24-month waiting period (exceptions for ALS and end-stage renal disease).
Medicaid: Health coverage for people with low income who get SSI or meet other rules.
Tennessee does not have a state-run disability income program for adults with aphasia. However, the state offers Medicaid waivers for long-term care and support services. These waivers can help pay for home care, therapy, and other services for people who meet medical and financial rules. Tennessee also has programs for children with disabilities, such as early intervention and special education services. For adults, the Tennessee Department of Health and the Tennessee Disability Coalition can provide information and referrals to local resources. State-specific rules for Medicaid waivers and support services can change, so check with the state agency for the latest updates.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Tennessee, you can open an ABLE account if you became disabled before age 26. The account can be used for expenses like housing, education, and medical care. Contributions are limited each year, and there are tax benefits. For more information, visit the Tennessee ABLE program website.
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly payment is $967 for an individual. The income limit is based on countable income, which is less than gross income. For SSDI, there is no set income limit, but you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind) in 2025. Earnings above this amount may stop your benefits. For Medicaid, income and resource limits vary by program and household size.
If you get too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA or Medicaid agency right away. This includes changes in work, marriage, or moving. Reporting changes helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate.
Contact your local Social Security office or Tennessee Vocational Rehabilitation for free help with your application. They can guide you through the process and answer your questions.
Yes, aphasia can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it stops you from working for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration reviews your medical records to decide if your condition meets their rules for disability.
SSI is for people with low income and limited resources, while SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs can help people with aphasia who cannot work.
The maximum SSI payment in 2025 is $967 per month. SSDI payments vary based on your work history. You may also get Medicaid or Medicare if you qualify.
No, you must not be able to work due to your aphasia. If you earn more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind), you may not qualify for benefits.
The SSA may take 3 to 6 months to decide. They may ask for more medical information or schedule an exam. If denied, you can appeal within 60 days.
Yes, children with aphasia may qualify for SSI if they meet medical and financial rules. The SSA reviews medical records and school records to decide.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Tennessee offers Medicaid waivers for long-term care and support services. The state also has programs for children with disabilities, such as early intervention and special education services.
You can try to work, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit ($1,620 per month in 2025). Social Security has work incentives and trial work periods to help you test your ability to work.
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA or Medicaid agency right away. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate.
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. For extra help, contact Tennessee’s Vocational Rehabilitation or Medicaid waiver programs.
