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Tennessee • Neurological/Developmental
People in Tennessee with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI if their condition severely limits their ability to work or function. State programs such as Medicaid and ABLE accounts can also help with healthcare and financial needs.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a severe medical condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months and have enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your ADHD must be severe enough to limit your ability to work or function. The Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at medical records, school reports, and other evidence to decide if your ADHD meets their disability standards. In 2025, you generally cannot earn more than $1,620 per month (non-blind) or $2,700 (blind) from work to qualify for SSDI or SSI[5][6].
In Tennessee, eligibility for disability benefits is based on federal rules, but state agencies help process applications and provide extra support. For SSI, Tennessee uses federal income and resource limits. For SSDI, you must meet the federal work credit requirements. Tennessee also offers Medicaid (TennCare) for low-income people with disabilities, which can help cover healthcare costs. Children with ADHD may qualify for SSI if their condition is severe and meets SSA criteria. State agencies may ask for medical exams or school records to decide eligibility[7][4].
ABLE TN is a savings program for Tennessee residents with disabilities diagnosed before age 26. You can save and invest money tax-free to pay for qualified disability expenses. ABLE accounts do not affect federal benefits like SSI or SSDI. You can enroll online and manage your account easily[3].
For SSI in 2025, the maximum monthly payment is $967. To qualify, your income and resources must be below federal limits. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you cannot earn more than $1,620 per month (non-blind) or $2,700 (blind) from work. Family members may also be eligible for dependent benefits[2][5].
You must report any changes in income, work, or living situation to the Social Security Administration. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. If you get an overpayment, you may have to repay it, but you can request a waiver if it was not your fault. Always keep records of your reports and payments[5].
Contact your local Social Security office or a disability advocate for help with your application. They can guide you through the process and answer your questions.
Yes, ADHD can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it severely limits your ability to work or function. You must provide medical proof and meet income or work history rules. Children with ADHD may also qualify if their condition is severe and meets SSA criteria[2][6].
You need medical records, school reports, proof of income, and any other evidence that shows how ADHD affects your work or daily life. The SSA may ask for more documents or a medical exam[1][6].
The state agency may take 6–8 months to decide. Some cases get faster review if the condition is severe. You can appeal if denied, but you must do so within 60 days[6].
Yes, children with ADHD may qualify for SSI if their condition is severe and meets SSA criteria. The SSA looks at medical records, school reports, and other evidence to decide eligibility[6].
The maximum SSI payment in 2025 is $967 per month. This amount is the same across the U.S. and is based on federal rules[2].
Tennessee does not have a separate state disability program for ADHD. Eligibility is based on federal rules for SSI and SSDI. State agencies help process applications and provide extra support like Medicaid and SNAP[4][7].
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about disability benefits for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Tennessee. For official eligibility and application details, consult the Social Security Administration or Tennessee state agencies.
You can work, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit ($1,620/month for non-blind, $2,700 for blind in 2025). Social Security offers work incentives to help you test your ability to work without losing benefits[5].
An ABLE account is a tax-free savings account for people with disabilities diagnosed before age 26. You can use it for qualified disability expenses. ADHD qualifies if diagnosed before age 26[3].
You can appeal within 60 days of the denial. You may need to provide more medical evidence or attend a hearing. The SSA website has forms and instructions for appeals[1].
Tennessee offers Medicaid (TennCare), SNAP, housing assistance, and ABLE accounts. These programs can help with healthcare, food, housing, and financial needs for people with ADHD[4][3].
